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.

November at Palmeira, Cape Verde, offers solid surf conditions with a mix of consistency and quality. The average swell height is 1.8m with a strong period of 12.9s, ensuring well-defined, powerful waves. The primary swell directions are NNW (peaking in the 1.5-2m range at 17.2%) and NNE (showing strength in 2-2.5m waves at 11.89%), while N swells contribute overhead opportunities (2-2.5m at 4.83%). Wind conditions are favorable 56% of the time, predominantly from the NE-ENE quadrant at 10-20kph, providing clean offshore or cross-offshore flow. However, ENE winds can occasionally hit 20-30kph (4.41%), potentially creating choppier sessions. The spot handles larger NW swells (2-2.5m at 0.35%), though they’re rare. Expect a balanced mix of chest-high to overhead waves (~60% of swells in the 1-2.5m range) with excellent shape due to the long period. Advanced surfers will find consistent power, particularly on NNW-NNE swells, while occasional lighter winds from the E-SE (under 20kph) offer cleaner conditions. The data suggests reliable surf with a bias towards medium to large, well-formed waves—ideal for high-performance surfing when winds align.