Baltrum
Germany · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Surfing
- Best winds W, NW, SW
- Level Intermediate · Pro
- Water Mixed
- Best months Apr–Oct
About this spot
Baltrum is the smallest inhabited East Frisian island – car-free, quiet, compact, reached by ferry from Neßmersiel. The kite spot is at the first beach access on the Nordstrand in front of the VDWS kite school. The clincher: a sandbank 400 to 500 m offshore creates a huge standing-depth flatwater area at low tide – perfect for practising. As the water rises and covers the bank, the waves grow and a genuine surf zone forms. You rig and launch on the beach.
The main wind is W, NW and SW. The Nordstrand may be ridden from three hours after sunrise (national-park kite zone). What makes Baltrum special? The big, varied area from flatwater to wave with very little traffic. Despite the school on the island, it is better to come with some experience. Season April to October.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 57 % 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 west. The least wind is in May (34 %). The water ranges from about 5 to 20 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
56 %
| 16 kn | SW | 5 °C | 5 °C |
| February |
50 %
| 15 kn | SW | 5 °C | 5 °C |
| March |
35 %
| 12 kn | SW | 6 °C | 6 °C |
| April |
35 %
| 13 kn | NW | 8 °C | 9 °C |
| May |
34 %
| 12 kn | W | 12 °C | 13 °C |
| June |
37 %
| 11 kn | W | 16 °C | 17 °C |
| July |
57 %
| 12 kn | W | 18 °C | 20 °C |
| August |
39 %
| 12 kn | W | 19 °C | 20 °C |
| September |
35 %
| 12 kn | SW | 17 °C | 18 °C |
| October |
54 %
| 14 kn | SW | 13 °C | 14 °C |
| November |
48 %
| 14 kn | SW | 9 °C | 10 °C |
| December |
45 %
| 14 kn | SW | 6 °C | 6 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from W, NW, SW (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
Spot at the first Nordstrand access in front of the kite school. Standing-depth flatwater over the sandbank at low tide, waves at high water. Ferry from Neßmersiel.
⚠︎ Hazards
Strong currents and tidal channels, especially around the turn of the tide. It gets deep quickly once the sandbank is covered – bring experience.
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.
Nearby surf schools
Frequently asked questions
Is Baltrum suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Baltrum is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Mixed). There are 2 surf schools nearby.
Which wind works at Baltrum?
Best with wind from W, NW, SW. In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the west.
When is the best time for Baltrum?
The best months are considered to be Apr–Oct. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (57 % of days).
How warm is the water at Baltrum?
Over the year about 5 °C in January to 20 °C in August (model data).
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