Praia Cardoso Surf Forecast and Surf Report

Alright folks, Rusty here. Let’s get into it.

We’re looking at a solid run of south swell through the middle of the month, but you’ve gotta pick your moments. The wind is the real wildcard here. Most of the time it’s not totally clean, but there are a few windows where everything lines up. This is a spot that needs the right tide and wind combo, and when it gets it, it’s proper.

The best of the bunch is shaping up for Tuesday, 11 August, through to Thursday, 13 August at Praia Cardoso. Tuesday morning kicks off with a nice 7ft south swell, period sitting at 12 seconds, and the wind is light and cross-off. That’s a clean, lined-up wave. Water temp is 66°, which is about average for this time of year. The combined energy is moderate-strong (1367), so there’s plenty of push. This is excellent for experienced surfers, and that’s the standout window. Tuesday afternoon holds the same quality with a light cross-off, and Wednesday morning, 12 August, keeps the same vibe with a 7ft south swell and clean conditions. Thursday afternoon, 13 August, is a beauty: 7ft south swell, 13-second period, and glassy conditions. That’s a session you don’t miss.

Friday, 14 August, is also a gem. Morning and afternoon are both glassy with a 6ft south swell, 13-second period. The energy is moderate (1072–1111), and the waves will be clean and fun. Crowds are *sometimes* an issue here, so if you’re early, you might have it to yourself.

Saturday, 15 August, the swell drops to 4ft, but the morning is glassy, so it’s still worth a paddle for a longboard or a fun board. After that, the wind goes a bit cross-on, and the quality dips.

There’s a gap from Saturday afternoon through to Monday, 17 August, where the swell either gets small or the wind turns ugly. Tuesday, 18 August, is a write-off – 8ft of messy, short-period swell with strong cross-onshore wind. That’s more of a kite-surfing setup than a paddle.

Then, hold onto your leash – Wednesday, 19 August, brings a return of the south swell. 8ft south swell, 11-second period, and clean cross-off wind. The energy is strong (1381). This is excellent for experienced surfers, but it’s a week and a half out, so keep an eye on it. The wind is forecast to be a moderate breeze, but the direction is good.

After that, the swell fades and the wind gets messy. From Thursday, 20 August, onward, the size drops and the conditions get marginal or poor, with a lot of cross-off wind but weak swell. The last few days of the window are flat and not worth the drive.

So, the standout: Tuesday 11 August morning through Thursday 13 August afternoon, with a special nod to the glassy Thursday session. And keep an eye on Wednesday 19 August – that’s a promising one if the forecast holds.

Stay stoked,
Rusty

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