Monte Leão
Monte Leão is a long right-hander on Sal Island that works on bigger NW swells. The wave breaks near the airport, making it convenient for surfers with limited time. The volcanic coastline provides a dramatic backdrop, and the wave offers consistent walls with the occasional barrel section.
Monte Leão surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (315°)
- Direction range
- 280° - 350°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2m - 2.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 60° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.5m
Water temp
23°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Long right-hander near airport. Works on bigger NW swells.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Monte Leão?
The Monte Leão profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Monte Leão?
The Monte Leão profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 60° to 130°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Monte Leão?
The Monte Leão scoring profile favors swell from NW (280° to 350°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 3m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Monte Leão?
The main season at Monte Leão is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, Sep. Winter NW swells. Long right-hander near airport.
How do I get to Monte Leão?
The spot profile lists SID as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Long right-hander near airport. Works on bigger NW swells.
What kind of wave is Monte Leão?
Monte Leão is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, Sep
Winter NW swells. Long right-hander near airport.
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