April on the Costa Vicentina sits between raw winter swells and tiny summer surf: greener hills, warmer air than February, and often quiet beaches unless Easter crowds land. Expect changeable Atlantic conditions, season-right wetsuits, and flexible spot choice. Below is a straight read on surfing Aljezur in April.
April at a glance
| Factor | Typical April in Aljezur |
|---|---|
| Air temperature | About 13–19°C |
| Water temperature | Around 16°C |
| Wetsuit | 4/3mm (standard for this month) |
| Swell | Transitional—still decent NW energy, less relentless than mid-winter |
| Crowds | Low to moderate; busier around Easter |
| Daylight | Roughly 13 hours |
| Best for | Intermediates who like shoulder-season waves; hikers who want surf on the side |
For the big picture across the year, see our best time to surf Aljezur guide and the complete guide to surfing Aljezur.
Wave conditions in April
April swell is shoulder season: you are moving away from the most consistent Oct–Mar window, but the North Atlantic still sends plenty of NW energy. Expect more variable weeks than in deep winter—some days in the 1–2m range, others flatter, with the occasional bigger pulse if a storm tracks well.
Wind is generally less punishing than peak Nortada months (June–August), but afternoon breezes still happen. Mornings are usually your safest bet for cleaner faces. Reef and beach breaks both work; just read the forecast and do not assume every day will be overhead.
Tips:
- Check tide times—some Aljezur-area breaks change character a lot with tide.
- If a big set hits after a flat spell, respect the jump in power; spring swells can still pack punch.
- Beginners may find some days challenging; others will be forgiving—flexibility helps.
Choosing a board for the conditions matters; our what surfboard should I rent post walks through volume and shapes for different skill levels.
What to wear
Water sits around 16°C in April. A 4/3mm wetsuit with boots is what most people use all session. Gloves are optional—only the coldest days or longer sessions might make you want them.
If you are unsure about thickness and care, the wetsuit guide for Portugal lines up seasons and kit without the sales talk.
Crowds and accommodation
Outside Easter week, April is quiet on the beaches compared with summer. Parking at Arrifana and Monte Clérigo is rarely the battle it becomes in August.
Easter can flip that: Portuguese and international visitors fill guesthouses and short lets for a few days. Book early if your dates overlap the holiday, and expect busier lineups at the most obvious peaks.
Pricing for stays is usually below peak summer—good value if you avoid the Easter squeeze. For area choices, where to stay in Aljezur covers villages and access to breaks.
Beyond surfing
April is excellent hiking weather on the Rota Vicentina—cool enough to walk far, warm enough to enjoy cliff views without winter’s bite. Wildflowers along the coastal path are a real draw.
Village life is calm; some seasonal businesses are still ramping up. For food and evenings, peek at best restaurants in Aljezur—hours can vary early season, so a quick call does not hurt.
Why April might be right for you
Pick April if you want real waves without full winter intensity, fewer people than summer (Easter aside), and landscapes that feel fresh and green. Skip it if you need guaranteed big swell every day or bustling beach-town energy—May and June build toward that summer rhythm.
We deliver soft-top surfboards and wetsuits with free pickup and drop-off to Aljezur, Arrifana, Vale da Telha, and Monte Clérigo (broader Costa Vicentina — ask case-by-case) so you are not wrestling racks on a rental car. Board only from €25/day, full kit from €35/day, premium from €45/day—details on pricing. Questions about April dates? Contact us and we will be blunt about what the forecast tends to do.
Is April a good month for beginners in Aljezur?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Flatter spells can be ideal; punchy shoulder-season days are better for people already comfortable in moving water. A lesson or local eye on the forecast helps.
Do I need a 4/3mm wetsuit in April?
For most people, yes—16°C water and longer sessions suit a 4/3mm. If you run very warm, you might squeeze the last days of a 3/2 toward late April, but that is the exception.
How busy is Aljezur if Easter is in April?
Noticeably busier for about a week—accommodation, restaurants, and popular peaks. Outside that window, crowds stay moderate.
Is April swell as big as winter?
Generally no—winter is more consistently large. April still gets good waves, but expect more variation week to week.