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.

September: The Turnaround Begins

September marks the first significant step toward winter. Average swell rises to 1.1m and period to 10.4s. Swell direction shifts: WNW (42.0%) and NW (39.3%) still lead, but W (11.5%) begins to recover. Ideal wind jumps to 42%, with NNW (21.4%) and N (13.7%) providing good offshore flow. Wave heights spread into the 1-1.5m range more frequently, and a few sets reach 1.5-2m. The NAO starts to weaken, allowing early fall storms to generate longer-period groundswells. September offers the best of both worlds: warm summer air with building wave energy. Conditions are still inconsistent, but when a W or SW swell lines up with an offshore wind, you can score clean, fun-sized waves.