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.

March at Praia das Bicas offers solid surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.9m and a decent 12.3s period, indicating well-formed, powerful waves. The best swells come from the WNW, NW, and WSW directions, which dominate the larger wave ranges (1.5–3m+), making up the majority of rideable days. Smaller waves (0.5–1.5m) are less frequent but still present, offering variety. Wind conditions are less ideal, with onshore (NNE to ENE) or strong cross-shore winds occurring frequently—only 26% of days have favorable offshore or light winds, mainly from S to SW. Expect a mix of clean and choppy sessions, with the best windows likely when swells align with lighter winds. Bigger, more powerful days are common, but wind interference can be a challenge. Advanced surfers will find quality waves, especially on WNW/NW swell days.