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.

In June, Cardoso offers solid surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.9m and a favorable period of 9.9s, providing well-formed, powerful waves. The dominant swell direction is from the south and southeast, with the highest frequency of rideable waves (1.5m and above) coming from the S (23.5% of the time), SSE (9.8%), and SE (5.1%). These directions ensure consistent, clean waves, though larger sets (2m+) are most likely from a southerly angle. Wind conditions are less ideal, with only 18% of days offering optimal offshore or light cross-shore winds. The majority of winds come from the north and northeast, often blowing onshore at moderate speeds (10-30kph), which can degrade wave quality. Surfers should watch for days with lighter SSE or SE winds for the best sessions. Overall, June provides reliable swell but variable wind conditions, requiring patience for optimal surfing.