Patos - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Atlantic roars to life as autumn deepens into winter, delivering consistent, powerful groundswell to Patos. Average swell heights range from 1.3m in October to 1.8m in January, with long periods of 11-13 seconds offering punchy, well-organized waves. The dominant swell directions of WNW, NW, and W align perfectly with the spot's NNW exposure, while offshore winds from the S to SW quadrant blow cleanly over the beach 37-43% of the time. This is prime time for pumping, firing surf, with frequent 1.5-2.5m sets and occasional XL waves when strong Atlantic storms line up. The combination of long-period energy and favorable wind is the recipe for Patos at its best.

Fair Surf Season (April & September)

Transition months bring a noticeable drop in average swell height to 1.3m in April and 1.0m in September, with periods averaging 11.0s and 10.5s respectively. Despite the smaller size, the quality remains high when conditions align. WNW and NW swells still dominate, but the frequency of offshore winds decreases to around 30-31%. Clean, rippable waves in the 1-1.5m range are common, and occasional pulses from late-season storms can deliver fun-sized surf. These months are a mixed bag, but patient surfers are rewarded with glassy mornings and manageable crowds.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

Summer settles in with a pronounced lull in swell energy. Average wave heights drop to 0.8-1.0m and periods shorten to 8.7-9.9s, resulting in weaker, more wind-affected conditions. The predominant swell still comes from the NW quadrant, but large percentages of small, choppy surf (<1m) dominate. Offshore wind occurrence plummets to 17-25%, as the prevailing synoptic pattern brings more onshore winds from the N and NW. When a rare summer storm track delivers a pulse of W or SW swell, the offshore S winds can align for brief windows of clean, fun-sized surf. But for the most part, expect groveling conditions—a time for longboards and low expectations.

December: Winter Peak

December is arguably the peak month for surf at Patos. Average swell height is 1.7m with a long period of 12.6s—some of the most powerful and consistent swell of the year. Swell direction is dominated by WNW (27.1%), W (16.3%), and NW (16.8%), with a significant contribution from SW (5.6%) and WSW (9.6%) that still wrap into the beach effectively. Offshore winds are ideal 43% of the time, the highest of any month, with strong S to SW winds often accompanying high pressure. The result is frequent firing conditions: heavy, pitching waves in the 1.5-2.5m range, and occasional XXL monsters. December is a surfer's dream—cold, clean, and powerful. It's the Holy Grail for Patos regulars.