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.

January: Depth of Winter Swell

January is the heart of the Portuguese surf season. With an average swell height of 2.0m and periods averaging 13.0s, this is the month for powerful, long-period groundswells. The swell rose is dominated by WNW (37.4%) and NW (22.8%), both wrapping well into the WSW-facing beach for consistent, well-shaped waves. A significant portion of the swell falls in the 1.5-2.5m range – pumping to heavy conditions. Offshore wind conditions are present 52% of the time, with ideal winds from the NE through ESE quadrants. When the NAO dips negative, expect big storms to produce epic, crisp surf. Be ready for powerful, overhead waves that can challenge even experienced surfers.