Tier 2 logistics
Madeira Surf Wetsuit Guide
Madeira's Atlantic water is warmer than mainland Portugal but colder than Canaries. Below: water temp by month and the right wetsuit thickness for a 2-hour session without freezing or overheating.
By Rafa Gouveia, ISA-certified surf coach · Last updated
| Month | Water temp | Recommended wetsuit |
|---|---|---|
| January | 17-18°C | 4/3mm full + booties optional |
| February | 17-18°C | 4/3mm full + booties optional |
| March | 17-18°C | 4/3mm full |
| April | 18-19°C | 3/2mm full |
| May | 19-20°C | 3/2mm full |
| June | 20-21°C | 3/2mm or shorty + rash |
| July | 21-22°C | Shorty / spring suit / boardies |
| August | 22-23°C | Shorty / spring suit / boardies |
| September | 22-23°C | Shorty / 3/2mm spring suit |
| October | 21-22°C | 3/2mm full |
| November | 19-20°C | 3/2mm full |
| December | 18-19°C | 4/3mm full |
Rules of thumb
- Add 1mm if you run cold or stay in water 2+ hours
- Subtract if you run hot, mostly catching waves not paddling
- Hood: rarely needed in Madeira — even January-February rarely demands it
- Booties: useful in winter at rocky reef spots (Paul do Mar especially)
- Gloves: not needed in Madeira
Renting vs bringing
School lessons include a wetsuit. For independent sessions: rent locally (€10-15/day) or bring your own. Rent if you're trying surf for the first time. Bring your own if you're a multi-week visitor and you have a tuned suit you trust.
Quality varies between rental shops. Newer suits (within 2 years) are warmer + more flexible. If a rented suit is stiff, leaks at the seams, or smells off — ask for another.