Pico da Mota - surf spot statistics

Pico da Mota in Portugal is a surf spot that benefits from consistent ground swells, particularly during the winter months, making it a reliable destination for experienced surfers. The best conditions occur from October to March, when ground swells dominate (66–91% of the time) and mean swell heights range from 2.1m to 2.7m. December and January stand out as the peak months, offering the largest waves (2.6–2.7m) and the highest likelihood of ground swells (85–91%). However, wind conditions are less favorable during this period, with bad winds (onshore or cross-shore) occurring 73–78% of the time, leaving only 22–27% of days with clean offshore winds. Spring (April–June) and summer (July–September) see a decline in swell quality, with increasing wind swells and smaller waves (1.5–2.1m). May to August are the least ideal, as wind swells become dominant (60–85%) and swell size drops to 1.5–1.7m. Additionally, summer months have the worst wind conditions, with unfavorable winds 82–88% of the time. September marks a transition, with ground swells regaining influence (46%) and slightly improved winds (18% good conditions). If you're looking for a balance between swell size and cleaner winds, October and November offer decent ground swell consistency (66–75%) with marginally better wind odds (23–24%) compared to winter. For surfers prioritizing wave power and consistency, winter is the prime season despite the challenging winds. If smaller, more manageable waves are preferred, late September to early April still provides surfable conditions, with October presenting a sweet spot between decent swell size and slightly improved wind chances. Summer is generally the least reliable for quality surf at this spot.

May at Pico da Mota offers decent surf conditions with a consistent swell, though wind quality can be hit or miss. The average swell height is 1.7m, paired with a solid 10.1s period, indicating well-spaced, powerful waves—ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. The primary swell directions come from the WSW to NW range, with the best consistency in the WNW and NW sectors, delivering waves in the 1-2.5m range for most sessions. Overhead surf (2m+) occurs around 13% of the time, while smaller but still rideable waves (1-1.5m) dominate roughly 23% of the month. The wind is only favorable for surfing 17% of the time, with the biggest issue being northerly to northwesterly winds, which frequently blow in the 20-30kph range (15-20% of the month), creating choppy conditions. Cleaner sessions are more likely when lighter winds or offshore breezes prevail, but they’re less common. Patience and flexibility will pay off—wait for those NW swells with lighter winds for the best rides.