Contreiras - surf spot statistics

Contreiras in Portugal is a consistent surf spot with reliable conditions year-round, though the best months for surfing are typically from October through March. During this period, ground swell dominates (77-92%), providing powerful, clean waves with mean swell sizes ranging from 2.0m to 2.6m. The winter months—November, December, January, and February—are especially favorable, with ground swell percentages above 89% and larger waves averaging 2.4-2.6m. However, wind conditions are less ideal in these months, with bad wind conditions (offshore or cross-shore winds) occurring 58-74% of the time, making clean surf sessions more sporadic but rewarding when conditions align. From April onwards, the swell consistency shifts, with wind swell becoming more prevalent, particularly from May to August (47-79% wind swell). Wave size decreases, averaging 1.3-1.7m, and the conditions become more suited to intermediate surfers. Summer months (June-August) see the smallest waves (1.3-1.4m) and higher wind swell influence, though wind conditions improve slightly, with good winds (offshore or light onshore) occurring 30-38% of the time. September marks the transition back to better swell, with ground swell rising to 58% and mean wave height increasing to 1.6m. The best overall balance of swell quality and wind conditions occurs in October, when ground swell returns strongly (77%), wave size increases to 2.0m, and good wind conditions peak at 42%, making it one of the most reliable months for surf. While winter delivers the biggest and most powerful waves, the higher likelihood of unfavorable winds means surfers must time their sessions carefully. For consistent, well-shaped waves with better wind odds, late autumn (October) and early spring (March) offer strong alternatives to the peak winter months.

November at Contreiras offers solid surf conditions with a consistent average swell height of 2.4m and a powerful period of 13.3s, indicating well-formed, energetic waves. The dominant swell directions are NW and NNW, contributing the majority of rideable waves—particularly in the 1.5–2.5m range—ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Roughly 37% of the time, wind conditions are favorable (light to moderate offshore or cross-shore), predominantly from the northern quadrants (N, NNE, NNW). However, stronger NW winds (10–30+ kph) occur frequently, which may occasionally disrupt conditions. Smaller, cleaner days are less common but possible, especially when swells lean toward WNW or WSW. Overall, November delivers powerful, consistent surf but requires selectivity for optimal sessions, with the best opportunities arising when winds align from the N/NNE.