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.

October in Ferrugem offers fairly consistent surf with an average swell height of 1.7m and a solid 9.0s period, providing enough energy for decent rides. The swell is predominantly from the NE to SE, with the best size distribution in the 1-2.5m range—particularly from the ENE and E directions (peaking around 9.56% for 1.5-2m waves from the E). The SSE and S directions also contribute quality swells, especially in the 1.5-2.5m range, adding variety to the lineup. However, wind conditions are hit or miss—only 13% of the time is it ideal for surfing, with NNE and NE winds being the most problematic (often blowing 20-40kph). When winds are light from the E or SE, the spot can be excellent, but stronger NNE/NE winds can ruin otherwise good swell. Patience and timing are key; watch for those cleaner, lighter wind windows to score the best sessions.