Guarda do Embau - surf spot statistics

Guarda do Embuau is a beach break that primarily receives wind swells, with ground swells making up a smaller portion of the swell regime. The best months for surfing here are typically from May to August, when ground swell contributions increase slightly, averaging around 26-34%, compared to the rest of the year where wind swells dominate (62-88%). During these months, wind conditions are also more favorable, with good wind days occurring 32-37% of the time, peaking in June. While swell size remains relatively consistent throughout the year (1.1-1.4m), the combination of slightly cleaner conditions and marginally increased ground swell makes mid-year the most reliable period. From September onwards, wind quality deteriorates significantly, with bad wind conditions rising to 79-81%, making it less ideal. The early part of the year (January-April) sees a similar issue with higher frequency of onshore winds (up to 77% bad wind days in January), though March and April offer a slight improvement. Overall, May to August provides the most balanced conditions, with a better mix of swell and manageable winds, though surfers should still expect predominantly smaller, wind-driven waves with occasional ground swell influence.

February at Guarda do Embau offers fair to good surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.1m and a solid period of 8.2s, producing well-organized waves. The swell predominantly arrives from the E to SE quadrant, with the most consistent waves in the 0.5-2.5m range—particularly from the ESE direction, where 10.29% of waves fall in the 1-1.5m category and 3.48% in the 1.5-2m range. This setup typically results in clean, surfable waves with decent power. However, wind conditions are less reliable, with only 27% of days providing ideal offshore or light cross-shore winds (mainly from the W to NW directions). The majority of winds come from the N to NE, which can create onshore chop, especially at higher speeds (10-30kph). While smaller days (under 1m) are common, the spot handles larger swells well when the wind cooperates. Advanced surfers will find the best sessions when ESE swells combine with W-NW winds, offering longer, more hollow rides. Beginners may struggle on bigger days but can enjoy the mellower conditions when the swell drops below 1.5m. Overall, February delivers variable but occasionally excellent surf, heavily dependent on wind alignment.