Babaomby – Emerald Sea

Madagascar · Kitesurf · Wingfoil

  • Best winds E, SE (Varatraza)
  • Level Intermediate · Pro
  • Water Flat water
  • Best months May–Nov

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About this spot

Babaomby sits at the far northern tip of Madagascar between the Indian Ocean and the Mozambique Channel, about 20 km from Sakalava Bay. The "Emerald Sea" is a vast turquoise lagoon – access by boat or 4x4, an eco-camp on site, and one of the most pristine kite venues in the world.

Wind comes on the Varatraza, a strong southeast trade, almost daily from around May to November, blowing from morning until sunset at 20 to 35 knots – over 20 knots on 98 percent of days, which is why Windguru ranks the spot among the ten windiest on the planet. What does the lagoon offer? A roughly 500 m long flat zone just 40 cm deep over white sand, plus wave zones reachable by a downwinder a few minutes away. A venue for advanced and pro kite and wing riders.

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Location

Wind & weather through the year

According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 100 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the south-east. The least wind is in February (18 %). The water ranges from about 25 to 29 °C over the year.

Month Wind days ≥ 12 kn Avg wind Direction Air Water
January
19 %
10 kn SE 28 °C 29 °C
February
18 %
9 kn SE 28 °C 29 °C
March
46 %
11 kn SE 28 °C 29 °C
April
87 %
17 kn SE 27 °C 29 °C
May
93 %
19 kn SE 27 °C 28 °C
June
97 %
21 kn SE 25 °C 27 °C
July
100 %
23 kn SE 24 °C 26 °C
August
100 %
22 kn SE 24 °C 25 °C
September
99 %
23 kn SE 24 °C 25 °C
October
93 %
19 kn SE 25 °C 26 °C
November
79 %
15 kn SE 27 °C 27 °C
December
62 %
13 kn SE 27 °C 28 °C

Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from E, SE (usable according to the spot info) are counted. Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)

Insider tips

Access only by boat or 4x4 along dirt tracks – arrange the transfer in advance. The flat 40 cm zone over sand is ideal for freestyle, with wave zones a short downwind away.

⚠︎ Hazards

Very remote with strong wind over 20 knots on nearly every day – not for beginners. Mind the current and tide in the lagoon and be confident at self-rescue.

All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.

Frequently asked questions

Is Babaomby – Emerald Sea suitable for beginners?

Not really. According to the spot info, Babaomby – Emerald Sea is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Flat water).

Which wind works at Babaomby – Emerald Sea?

Best with wind from E, SE (Varatraza). In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the south-east.

When is the best time for Babaomby – Emerald Sea?

The best months are considered to be May–Nov. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (100 % of days).

How warm is the water at Babaomby – Emerald Sea?

Over the year about 25 °C in August to 29 °C in February (model data).

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