Palmeira - surf spot statistics

Palmeira in Cape Verde offers consistent surf conditions year-round, but the best months for surfers are clearly November through February. During this period, ground swell dominates (78-79% in Nov/Dec, 61-64% in Jan/Feb) with minimal wind swell interference, producing cleaner and more powerful waves. Mean swell sizes peak around 1.8-2.1m, ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Wind conditions are most favorable in December (64% good winds) and January (54%), with offshore or cross-offshore winds enhancing wave quality. From March onward, ground swell decreases while wind swell increases, making waves less predictable and often choppier, especially during April-August when bad wind conditions prevail (66-73%). Swell size drops below 1.6m from May-September, and wind swell dominates (77-95%), resulting in weaker, less organized waves. October marks the transition back to better conditions with ground swell rising to 62% and decent wind reliability (57% good). While Palmeira is rarely flat (0% no-swell days year-round), the winter months deliver the most powerful, cleanest waves with optimal wind alignment, making them the prime surfing season. Summers cater more to beginners or wind-dependent disciplines due to smaller, wind-affected swells.

January at Palmeira, Cape Verde, offers solid surf conditions with a dominant swell from the north and northeast directions. The average swell height is 2.0m with a strong period of 11.9s, ensuring well-formed, powerful waves. The majority of swell energy comes from NNE (38%) and NNW (29%), producing consistent waves in the 1.5-2.5m range, ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Cross-shore and offshore winds are favorable 54% of the time, primarily from the ENE and NE, with speeds mostly between 10-30kph—light to moderate, helping to shape clean conditions. However, stronger easterly winds (20-40kph) can occasionally create chop. Overall, January delivers reliable surf with good size, power, and decent wind conditions, making it a strong choice for surfers comfortable with overhead waves.