Pororoca - surf spot statistics

The best months for surfing at Pororoca, Brazil, are generally from March to August, with peak conditions likely in May and June. During this period, ground swell percentages increase, reaching up to 24% in May, while wind swell remains moderate (37-45%). The mean swell size is also slightly larger, averaging 1.1-1.2m, providing more consistent waves. Wind conditions are marginally better from May to June, with 16-17% favorable winds—still not ideal, but better than other months. Outside this window, ground swells drop significantly, and wind swells dominate, often accompanied by poor wind conditions (over 85% unfavorable). September and October see larger swells (1.3m and 1.2m), but winds deteriorate further (92% bad), making sessions challenging. The worst months are November to February, where ground swells are scarce (8-10%), wind swells peak, and bad wind conditions prevail (85-91%). Overall, May and June offer the most balanced swell size, better ground swells, and slightly improved wind chances, though surfers should be prepared for frequent onshore winds year-round.

August at Pororoca offers mixed but generally surfable conditions. The average swell height is 1.2m with a decent period of 7.4s, suggesting mostly clean, manageable waves. The dominant swell directions are ENE, E, and S, with ENE producing the highest frequency of rideable waves (21.66% under 0.5m and 5.91% in the 1-1.5m range). The best quality tends to come from SE to S swells, which deliver more energy (4.38-7.03% in the 1.5-2.5m range). Wind conditions are less ideal, with only 12% of days offering favorable offshore or light cross-shore winds—mostly from the east (ENE to E at 10-20kph). However, winds from NNE to NE can be problematic (often 10-30kph), creating choppier conditions. While not epic, August provides enough small to mid-sized waves for intermediate surfers, especially when swell aligns with lighter winds. Patience and timing are key.