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.
Ponta Preta surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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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
- 2.5m - 3.3m
- 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 kind of wave is Ponta Preta?
Ponta Preta is a point break in Sal Island, Cape Verde, that mostly breaks right. It's on our list of the world's 100 best waves.
What swell works best at Ponta Preta?
Ponta Preta picks up swell from the WNW round to the N, and it's best when it's coming straight out of the NW. It starts working at around 1.2m and handles up to about 4m, with the sweet spot around 2.5 to 3.3m. Period matters too: aim for 16s or longer, as anything under 10s tends to be weak. These are the numbers our scoring uses, so treat them as a guide rather than a promise.
What wind is offshore at Ponta Preta?
An ENE wind is dead offshore at Ponta Preta, and anything from the NNE round to the E keeps it clean. Light winds from other directions can still be fine; strong offshores can make it hard to get into waves.
What tide is best at Ponta Preta?
Ponta Preta is at its best around mid tide, roughly 0.3m to 1.5m on the local chart.
When is the best time of year to surf Ponta Preta?
The most reliable run of swell at Ponta Preta comes Nov to Mar. There's a second window in Apr and Oct too. Winter best. NE trades blow offshore. World-class right.
How cold is the water at Ponta Preta?
The water at Ponta Preta averages around 23°C, so you'll want a springsuit or 2mm. It shifts a few degrees through the year, so check the season before you pack.
Is Ponta Preta good for beginners?
Not really. It's rated 8/10 for difficulty and suits experienced surfers. Expect a moderate crowd (6/10) when it's on. Sharp volcanic reef. Sea urchins. Strong currents.
How do I get to Ponta Preta?
The nearest airport on our list is SID, then it's roughly a 15-minute drive.
What other surf spots are near Ponta Preta?
The closest breaks we track are Alibaba (2.6 km), Monte Leão (12 km) and Palmeira (19 km), handy when Ponta Preta isn't working.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Oct, Apr
Winter best. NE trades blow offshore. World-class right.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Alibaba
⚡ World-class A-frame • Volcanic reef • Atlantic's best
Monte Leão
🦁 Lion Mountain waves • Near airport • Long rights
Palmeira
🌴 Fishing port power • Handles size • Heavy barrels
Ervatao
🐢 Turtle beach left • Remote windward • Wrapping swells
Praia de Santa Mónica
🏖️ Cape Verde's Santa Monica • Endless beach • Trade wind groomed
Praia Negra
🖤 Black volcanic sand • Heavy winter waves • Santiago Island
Plan a trip around Ponta Preta
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