Praia das Bicas - surf spot statistics

Praia das Bicas in Portugal is a spot that works best during the winter months, when the Atlantic swell is most active and consistent. The prime season runs from November to March, with December and January standing out as the peak months. During this period, ground swell dominates (85-92%), offering powerful, well-organized waves averaging 1.9-2.2 meters, ideal for experienced surfers. Wind conditions, however, are less favorable, with only 28-33% of days having good offshore winds, meaning surfers may frequently contend with onshore winds. The shoulder months of October and April still see decent ground swell activity (65%) and slightly improved wind percentages (29% and 21%, respectively), making them solid alternatives for those seeking slightly less crowded sessions. From May through September, the swell transitions to mostly wind-driven, becoming smaller (1.1-1.4 meters) and less reliable, while wind conditions remain predominantly poor (82-86% bad winds). Summer is generally the weakest season, with July and August being the least consistent. If you're looking for the best balance of size, consistency, and manageable winds, late autumn to early winter (October-December) provides the best window, though winter proper (December-February) delivers the biggest and most powerful waves if you don’t mind less predictable winds.

August at Praia das Bicas offers fairly consistent surf with an average swell height of 1.1m and a solid period of 9.2s, indicating decent energy in the waves. The primary swell directions are from the NW and WNW, which contribute to the majority of rideable conditions, with wave heights frequently in the 0.5–2.5m range. Larger swells (1.5m+) are less common but still present, particularly from the NW. Wind conditions are less ideal, with only 17% of the time providing favorable offshore or light cross-shore winds for surfing. The dominant winds come from the N and NW, often in the 10–30kph range, which can create choppy or onshore conditions. While the spot gets rideable waves most days, the best sessions will depend on wind alignment—ideally when lighter winds coincide with the NW swell direction. Overall, August delivers small to medium waves with occasional cleaner days, suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers willing to work around the wind.