Sao Conrado seasonal overview
Sao Conrado offers relatively consistent swell year-round, but the best conditions for surfers generally occur from March to August. During this period, the swell composition shifts towards a higher percentage of ground swell (45-59%), which tends to produce cleaner, more organized waves compared to wind swell. The average swell size also increases slightly, peaking around 1.1m to 1.3m, providing better rideable waves for experienced surfers. Wind conditions are fair but not ideal, with good wind days hovering around 46-53%, though September to November sees a significant drop in favorable winds (34-38%). The worst months for surfing are typically October and November due to strong onshore winds (66% bad wind conditions) and a higher proportion of wind swell, which often creates choppy, less predictable waves. December to February can still provide decent sessions, but the swell is smaller (0.9m-1.0m) and dominated by wind swell. Overall, mid-year months (April-July) strike the best balance between ground swell dominance and manageable wind conditions, making them the prime time for quality surf at Sao Conrado.
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Conditions at Sao Conrado in May
In May, Sao Conrado offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.3m and a solid period of 11.0s, indicating well-formed and powerful waves. The best swell direction is predominantly from the south (S, SSE), with a high frequency of waves in the 1-2.5m range, providing consistent rideable energy. Cross-shore or light onshore winds prevail about 50% of the time, which is ideal for surfing, while stronger or unfavorable winds are relatively rare. The most common wind speeds are in the 0-20kph range, primarily from the ENE to ESE, minimizing choppiness. Expect a mix of smaller days (0.5-1.5m) and occasional punchier sessions (1.5-2.5m), making it a good month for intermediate to advanced surfers. Overall, May delivers reliable waves with decent shape and manageable wind conditions.
Average Spot conditions at Sao Conrado in May
Swell history for May
Wind history for May
Swell quality
Analyze the groundswell consistency at Sao Conrado during May. Based on historical data, there is a % probability of groundswell occurring this month. The chart below provides a detailed breakdown of the average wave height distribution, offering deep insights into the swell quality and surf potential you can expect at Sao Conrado for your next trip in May.
Ground swell
Ground swell by size
Wind conditions
Evaluate the wind and swell alignment at Sao Conrado for May. Our analysis shows that favorable offshore or side-shore winds coincide with surfable swell approximately % of the time. The accompanying graph illustrates the average size distribution of waves during these optimal wind windows at Sao Conrado.
