Comporta - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Atlantic roars to life during the winter months, and Comporta feels the full force. From October through March, the average swell height ranges from 1.5m to 2.0m, with periods consistently above 11s – often reaching 13s. This is prime time for powerful, long-period groundswells generated by deep extratropical lows tracking across the Atlantic. The dominant swell directions are WNW and NW, which wrap nicely into the WSW-facing coastline, delivering clean, lined-up waves. Offshore wind conditions occur over 40% of the time, with a peak in December at 53%. When the NAO dips negative, storms barrel down and bless Comporta with pumping, heavy waves. This is the window for epic, firing sessions.

Fair Surf Season (April and September)

The shoulder months bring a transition. April and September offer a mix of fading winter swell and early autumn pulses. Average heights drop to around 1.5m (April) and 1.1m (September), but periods remain respectable above 10s. Ideal wind occurs roughly one-third of the time, with decent chances of clean conditions when pressure gradients relax. Swell from W and WNW still dominate, so waves remain rideable. Expect fun, rippable waves without the winter intensity – great for quality over quantity.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

Summer months are the quietest at Comporta. The North Atlantic storm track shifts north, and the Azores High settles in, bringing consistent northerly winds and smaller swell. Average heights hover around 1.0-1.2m, with periods dipping into the 8-10s range – mainly short-period, weak windswell. Offshore wind percentages drop to 25-29%, and winds from N and NNW become common, often blowing onshore or side-onshore. Onshore SW to W winds also increase. The result is often choppy, small surf. Still, occasional pulses of W or WNW swell can sneak through on a clean day, best enjoyed on a groveler or longboard. Expect micro to fun-sized waves and pick your windows carefully.

December: Peak Season Arrives

December tops the charts for ideal wind at 53%, with average swell height 1.9m and period 12.6s. Swell is mainly from WNW (28.3%), NW (26.1%), and W (10.8%). Wind rose shows a strong component from N through E, providing plenty of offshore days. The North Atlantic is in full fury, generating powerful groundswells. Comporta gets full exposure, with consistent, big waves. This is the month for charging; waves can easily reach overhead to double overhead when storms align. Cooling water and shorter days are a small price for epic surf. December is often the best month of the year.