The Surf Window

Flores Island

Flores, Azores

Reef breakAdvanced

The westernmost island of the Azores, Flores (Flowers) is the rainiest and most beautiful island in the archipelago, with waterfalls, crater lakes, and hydrangea-lined roads leading to completely unsurfed Atlantic reef breaks.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowW–E (270°–90°)
Size–W 1.5–3m at 14–18s

Wind

SE

Light to E under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Sep–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Reef break

Bottom

Volcanic rock

Shape

Various, exposed reef and point breaks around the island

Length

100–300m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Expert surfers
  • •Why: Remote mid-Atlantic island with uncharted reef breaks, complete self-reliance required

Hazards

  • •Extremely remote, evacuation is very difficult
  • •Volcanic reef is sharp and unexplored
  • •Flores has the most rainfall in the Azores, weather is severe

Local Tips

  • •Flores is arguably the most beautiful island in the Azores, the vegetation and waterfalls are extraordinary
  • •The Faja Grande on the west coast and the Rocha dos Bordões basalt organ pipes are stunning
  • •SATA airline flies from Ponta Delgada, connections are limited

Location

Map showing the location of Flores Island in Flores, Azores

39.4479, -31.1969