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.

December at Praia das Bicas offers solid surf conditions, with an average swell height of 2.2m and a strong period of 12.6s, indicating powerful, well-spaced waves. The dominant swell directions are WNW and NW, which make up most of the larger waves (1.5m and above), peaking in the 1.5-2.5m range. WSW and SW swells also contribute, particularly in the 1-2.5m range, providing good variety. Wind conditions are favorable for surfing 33% of the time, with the most common ideal winds being light to moderate from NNE to ENE (below 20kph). However, stronger winds from the N, NW, and W can occasionally create choppy conditions, especially when exceeding 20-30kph. The spot handles larger swells well, with a notable percentage of waves exceeding 2.5m from the W, WNW, and NW, making it a reliable winter destination for experienced surfers seeking consistent power. Smaller, cleaner days are rarer but occur when swells align with lighter offshore winds. Overall, expect powerful, well-organized waves, though wind conditions will dictate session quality—early mornings often provide the best opportunities for cleaner surf.