Praia dos Ingleses - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

This is prime time at Praia dos Ingleses. The North Atlantic pumps out consistent, long-period W and NW groundswells that march into the beach with authority. Average swell heights range from 1.4m to 1.8m, with periods often exceeding 12 seconds, providing powerful, rippable waves. The NAO typically settles into a negative or neutral phase, steering storm tracks right at Portugal. Offshore wind blows from the N to W quadrant around 44-48% of the time, creating clean, groomed faces. This is when you can score classic, hollow peaks.

Fair Surf Season (April & September)

Transitional months offer a mixed bag. In April, the winter swells begin to fade, averaging 1.3m with a period of 10.9s, while September sees the early season build with 1.1m and 10.4s. Wind consistency drops to 37-42%, but the lighter trade wind regime means more glassy mornings. High pressure ridges often bring sunny skies and light variable winds, making for clean but smaller surf. Good for a longboard or a fun shortboard session when the swell aligns.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

Summer settles in with a persistent deep Azores High dominating the weather pattern. Swell energy drops dramatically to 0.9-1.1m on average, with shorter periods of 8.8-9.9s. The swell direction swings more NW, producing weaker, less consistent waves. Ideal offshore wind is present only 33-36% of the time, and the prevailing northerly winds (NNW/N) often create bumpy, onshore conditions. While you'll find the occasional fun-sized day, expect groveling conditions and smaller, weaker surf. Best for beginners or taking a break.

March: Transitioning Power

March marks the beginning of a gradual transition. Average swell drops slightly to 1.6m with a period of 12.0s. The swell rose shows WNW (42.2%) still leading, but NW (26.6%) is more prominent, indicating a shift toward smaller, more angled swells. Ideal wind is 44% of the time, with NNW (12.4%) and N (11.3%) as the top offshore sources. The percentage of W (16.9%) and WSW (4.1%) swells remains healthy, offering good options. Wave heights are still solid in the 1-2m range, but the frequency of overhead waves (>2.5m) declines. The NAO begins to shift toward neutral, and storm tracks start to weaken. Expect fun, powerful waves with occasional pumping days early in the month.