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.

In October, Guarda do Embaú offers surfable conditions with an average swell height of 1.3m and a decent period of 8.6s, providing consistent, moderately powerful waves. The dominant swell direction is easterly (ENE to SE), with the highest frequency of waves in the 1-1.5m range (16.23% from E, 8.32% from ESE, and 8.62% from SSE). Larger sets (1.5-2.5m) are less frequent but present, primarily from E and SSE, offering occasional punchier waves for advanced surfers. Wind conditions are variable, with cross-shore or slightly onshore winds (NE to SSE) being most common. Only 19% of the time are winds ideal (light offshore or sideshore), while moderate onshore winds (10-30kph) from N to SE can occasionally degrade wave quality. Stronger winds (over 20kph) from N to SSW occur but are less frequent. Overall, expect rideable waves most days, with the best sessions occurring when easterly swells coincide with lighter winds or favorable wind directions. The spot works best on mid-sized easterly energy, though consistency and wind reliability are the main limitations.