Salgueiros - surf spot statistics

Salgueiros in Portugal is a consistent surf spot with varying conditions throughout the year, offering different experiences depending on the season. The best months for surfing here are typically from October through February, when ground swells dominate, averaging between 1.5m and 1.8m in height. During this period, ground swell occurrence is highest, peaking at 89% in January, ensuring powerful and clean waves. Wind conditions improve in these months, with good wind days rising to around 38-43%, though onshore winds remain a factor, especially in December and January. The winter swell is well-organized, making it ideal for experienced surfers seeking stronger waves. From March onwards, the swell quality begins to decline, with ground swells decreasing and wind swells becoming more prevalent, particularly from May to August. Summer months (June-August) see the weakest conditions, with mean swell sizes dropping below 1m and wind swells dominating, often accompanied by higher proportions of bad wind conditions (78-83%). While surfable waves still occur, they tend to be smaller and less consistent, better suited for beginners or longboarders. September marks the transition back to better conditions, with ground swells increasing again by October. While wind conditions in autumn are not as clean as in winter, the improving swell size and direction make late autumn a solid option for surfers looking to avoid the biggest winter crowds. Overall, Salgueiros delivers the most reliable surf during the winter months, but shoulder seasons like late fall and early spring can still provide good sessions with fewer people in the water.

In June, Salgueiros offers generally small to moderate surf conditions with an average swell height of 0.9m and a decent period of 9.7s, suggesting reasonably clean and organized waves. The dominant swell directions are from the WNW (39.7% between 0.5-2.5m) and W (27% between 0.5-2.5m), providing consistent, rideable waves with manageable energy. Smaller contributions from NW and WSW swells add variety but rarely exceed 2.5m, keeping conditions accessible for intermediate surfers. Wind is favorable for surfing only 19% of the time, with the most common problematic winds coming from the N-NW sector (often 10-30kph), which can create onshore chop. However, lighter winds (<20kph) from ENE to SE occur around 11% of the time, offering cleaner sessions. Expect mostly waist-to-chest-high waves, with occasional shoulder-high sets (1.5m+). The spot works best when W/WNW swells coincide with light offshore or cross-shore E/ENE winds—a rarer but optimal combo in June. Overall, it’s a fair summer month with plenty of rideable days, though advanced surfers may find it undersized.