Ferrugem - surf spot statistics

Ferrugem in Brazil offers consistent surf year-round, but the best conditions typically occur between May and September. During these months, the swell is predominantly groundswell (peaking at 42% in May and June), which provides cleaner, more powerful waves compared to the windswell-dominated conditions in other months. Mean swell size also increases slightly, averaging around 1.6-1.7m, with May to August delivering the most reliable wave heights. Wind conditions, however, remain challenging throughout the year, with bad winds (onshore or cross-shore) dominating over 70% of the time. The least unfavorable winds occur from May to July (25-26% good wind days), though even then, clean conditions are relatively rare. September stands out with the largest average swell size (1.9m) but suffers from the worst wind conditions (only 14% good wind days). From October to April, the surf is smaller and more windswell-driven, with January, February, and December showing the weakest groundswell influence (16-19%) and the highest frequency of poor winds (79-87%). Overall, mid-year (May-August) provides the best compromise between swell quality and size, though surfers should be prepared for frequent onshore winds. Early mornings or sessions following wind shifts may offer brief clean conditions, but consistent offshore breezes are rare at this spot.

Ferrugem in December offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.5m and a solid period of 8.6s, indicating well-formed, consistent waves. The predominant swell direction is from the east to southeast, with the highest frequency of waves in the 1-1.5m and 1.5-2m ranges—ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. The ENE, E, and ESE swells contribute the most rideable waves, while larger swells (2-2.5m+) from the S and SSE bring occasional punchy conditions for those seeking more power. Wind conditions are less favorable, with only 16% of the time producing ideal offshore or light cross-shore winds (typically ENE to ESE). Most winds are onshore (SSE to SSW) or moderate to strong from the NNE to NE, which can create choppy conditions. Expect a mix of clean and messy sessions, with the best days coinciding with easterly swells and light ENE winds. Overall, December at Ferrugem is surfable but inconsistent, requiring patience and timing.