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.

In May, Pororoca offers surfable conditions with an average swell height of 1.2m and a decent 8.0s period, providing consistent but generally small to mid-sized waves. Most swells come from the east to southeast (ENE to SSE), with the majority falling in the 1-1.5m range, though some larger sets up to 2.5m+ occur occasionally from the south (S/SSE). Wind conditions are less favorable, with ideal offshore or light winds (0-10kph) present only 16% of the time. The dominant winds are onshore (NE to SSE) at 10-20kph, which can create chop, particularly when stronger NNE winds (occasionally exceeding 20-30kph) occur. While there are rideable waves, expect mixed conditions—some clean sessions when winds cooperate, but often wind-affected surf due to prevailing onshore flow. Experienced surfers can find quality waves on south swells with favorable wind windows, but overall consistency is moderate.