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.

October at Cardoso delivers solid surf conditions with an average swell height of 2.0m and a decent period of 8.9s, offering plenty of power for experienced riders. The most consistent swells come from the ENE to SSE sectors, with peak energy in the 1.5-2.5m range—NE and E directions dominate here, producing well-shaped waves. However, winds are a challenge: only 12% of the time are they ideal (likely offshore ENE-ESE), while NNE and NE winds frequently blow at 10-30kph, creating choppy or cross-shore conditions. The best chance for clean surf is during lighter E-ESE winds, which are less common but align better with the swell direction. Expect punchy, mid-sized waves with occasional bigger sets (2.5m+), but patience is key for those glassy mornings.