Cardoso - surf spot statistics

Cardoso in Brazil offers surfable waves year-round, with conditions varying significantly across seasons. The best months for surfing are typically from April to September, when ground swell percentages increase, wind conditions stabilize slightly, and swell size peaks. During this period, ground swell contributions range from 30% to 43%, providing better-quality, more consistent waves compared to wind swells, which dominate the rest of the year. May stands out with the highest ground swell influence (43%) and a mean swell size of 2.0m, though wind conditions remain challenging with only 20% good wind days. September sees the largest swells (2.2m), but poor wind conditions (89% bad winds) can be limiting. From October to March, wind swells overwhelmingly dominate (79–84%), and while the waves remain rideable, they tend to be less clean and smaller (1.6–1.9m). Wind conditions are generally unfavorable throughout the year, with good wind days rarely exceeding 20%. Surfers looking for the best compromise should target April to July, where ground swells are decent (35–42%), and wind conditions, though still poor, are slightly less severe than later in the season. The spot is best suited for experienced surfers who can handle onshore winds and mixed swell conditions.

January at Cardoso offers fairly consistent surf with an average swell height of 1.6m and a decent period of 8.5s, indicating well-organized, rideable waves. The primary swell directions are ENE, E, and S, with ENE swells (11.95%) and E swells (7.16%) contributing the most in the 1-1.5m range, while S swells (7.77%) dominate in the 1.5-2m range. This mix creates varied conditions, though the best quality likely comes from ENE swells due to their frequency and energy. Wind is the main limiting factor—only 18% of the time is it ideal (light offshore or sideshore). NNE to NE winds are most common, often blowing 10-30kph, which can create choppy onshore conditions, especially in the afternoons. The spot handles S swells best, but strong NE winds may disrupt wave shape. Overall, January provides surfable waves, but wind management is key—early mornings or days with lighter NNE/NE winds will offer the cleanest conditions. Bigger days (2m+) are less frequent but possible, mainly from S or ENE swells.