Ponta Preta
Ponta Preta is Cape Verde's world-class wave—a powerful right-hand point break on Sal Island that produces some of the best barrels in the Atlantic Ocean. The wave breaks over sharp volcanic reef, requiring serious commitment and skill. The NE trade winds blow offshore, keeping conditions clean and groomed. When big NW swells wrap around the point during winter, Ponta Preta delivers heavy, makeable tubes that have drawn top pros and wave-hunters from around the world.
Today's Conditions
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (320°)
- Direction range
- 290° - 350°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 4m
- Ideal size
- 3.2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (60°)
- Offshore range
- 30° - 100°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.5m
Water temp
23°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
6/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Ponta Preta?
Ponta Preta works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Ponta Preta?
Offshore wind at Ponta Preta blows from the ENE (60°). Anything in the 30° to 100° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Ponta Preta?
Ponta Preta wants NW swell (290° to 350°) between 1.2m and 4m, with a period of 16s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Ponta Preta?
The main season at Ponta Preta is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Oct, Apr. Winter best. NE trades blow offshore. World-class right.
How do I get to Ponta Preta?
Fly into SID, then allow about 15 minutes by road.
What kind of wave is Ponta Preta?
Ponta Preta is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Oct, Apr
Winter best. NE trades blow offshore. World-class right.
Getting There
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