Praia da Macumba - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (May - August)

The South Atlantic winter unleashes its fury during these months, and Praia da Macumba stands tall to receive the onslaught. Average swell heights climb to a consistent 1.2-1.3m with periods stretching into the 10.8-11.1s range - that's punchy, long-period groundswell from the S, SSE and SSW quadrants. The percentage of offshore wind (N, NNE, NW, NNW) peaks at 51-57%, meaning cleaner, more groomed faces more often. This is when the combination of solid swell and favorable wind aligns to produce the best waves of the year.

Fair Surf Season (March - April & September - October)

Shoulder months bring a mixed bag. In March and April, the average swell height is around 1.0-1.2m and periods are still strong (10.4-10.6s), but offshore wind drops to 45-46%. September and October see swell heights remain decent (1.1-1.3m) but ideal wind falls to just 37-41% as the trade winds strengthen and blow more from the ENE-E, creating cross-to-onshore conditions. You'll still find fun, rippable waves, but you'll have to work harder to pick the right wind window.

Low Surf Season (November - February)

Summer in the southern hemisphere brings a lull in South Atlantic storm activity. Average swell heights hover around 0.9-1.0m with periods of 9.6-9.9s - mostly small, groveling waves from the SE and SSE. Offshore wind frequencies are moderate (37-51%) but the lack of size and power means the surf is often marginal. While occasional pulses of longer-period swell can ride through, expect mostly whitewash and weak conditions during these months.

November: Unreliable Summer Kickoff

November is the start of the low season proper. Swell averages 1.1m but the period is just 9.9s, and the bulk of waves are under 1m. S (29.3%) and SSE (28.4%) still provide some size, but the quality is diminished by short period chop. Offshore wind is only ideal 37% of the time - the trade winds dominate with E (13.2%) and ENE (12.5%) blowing in the 10-20 kph range. The combination of small swell and persistent onshore/cross-shore winds makes for mostly mediocre, groveling conditions. Look for early morning windows when the wind is lightest.