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.

October in Palmeira, Cape Verde, offers solid surf conditions with a consistent swell and favorable winds for surfers. The average swell height is 1.6m, combined with a healthy 11.5s period, providing well-formed and powerful waves. The majority of swell comes from the N to NNE and NNW directions, with the largest proportion of waves falling in the 1-1.5m and 1.5-2m ranges, ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Small to mid-size waves (0.5-2.5m) dominate, while larger swells over 2.5m are rare, ensuring manageable but punchy surf. Wind conditions are favorable 57% of the time, with the most common breezes blowing from the ENE, NE, and E directions at 10-20kph, creating clean or slightly textured conditions. Stronger winds (20-30kph) occasionally occur, but overpowering gusts are rare. The spot’s orientation effectively picks up Atlantic swells, ensuring reliable surf, while the wind patterns help maintain quality shape. October delivers consistent, rideable waves with good energy and a mix of playful and more powerful peaks.