The Surf Window

Mindelo

São Vicente, Cape Verde

Point breakAdvanced

The cultural capital of Cape Verde on São Vicente island, Mindelo is a vibrant Creole port city where Atlantic swells reach the beaches around the bay, and the extraordinary music and culture scene makes it worth visiting whether the surf cooperates or not.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalWNW (300°)
WindowWSW–N (240°–360°)
Size–NW 1–2m at 12–16s

Wind

SE

Light to S under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Peaks in the bay around the city

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Consistent Atlantic trade wind swell in a manageable bay setting

Hazards

  • •Trade winds dominate, proper offshore window is narrow
  • •Boat traffic in the busy harbour
  • •Water quality near the port can be affected by shipping

Local Tips

  • •Mindelo is Cape Verde's cultural soul, morna music (Cesária Évora's homeland) fills the bars
  • •The market in the old colonial centre is extraordinary for local crafts and fresh fish
  • •São Pedro bay south of Mindelo has better surf conditions and fewer crowds

Location

Map showing the location of Mindelo in São Vicente, Cape Verde

16.8908, -24.9819