Bol – Zlatni Rat
Croatia · Kitesurf · Windsurf · SUP
- Best winds W (Maestral)
- Level Beginner · Intermediate
- Water Chop
- Best months May–Sep
About this spot
The distinctive "Golden Horn" (Zlatni Rat) pebble spit on the island of Brač is one of the Adriatic's most photographed beaches – and a reliable summer playground for windsurfers and kiters. The Maestral, a thermal afternoon wind from the west, builds on most days from around midday, funnels along the Hvar Channel and accelerates around the tip of the spit to a typical 15–22 knots. The water is lightly wind-chopped; the shallows near the tip make the spot beginner-friendly, while the stronger afternoon phases keep advanced sailors happy too.
When is the best time to visit Bol? May to September, with the most consistent Maestral in high summer. Suits windsurf beginners, advanced windsurfers and travelling kiters.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
The wind at this spot is mainly local (thermals, funnelling between mountains or shores). The weather model with its roughly 9 km grid does not capture it and shows hardly any wind here – so we do not show wind-day statistics. For the season, see the spot description. The water ranges from about 14 to 27 °C over the year.
| Month | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8 kn | W | 9 °C | 15 °C |
| February | 7 kn | NW | 10 °C | 14 °C |
| March | 8 kn | W | 12 °C | 15 °C |
| April | 7 kn | NW | 15 °C | 16 °C |
| May | 7 kn | NW | 19 °C | 19 °C |
| June | 6 kn | NW | 25 °C | 24 °C |
| July | 7 kn | W | 29 °C | 27 °C |
| August | 6 kn | W | 28 °C | 26 °C |
| September | 6 kn | W | 23 °C | 25 °C |
| October | 6 kn | SW | 19 °C | 22 °C |
| November | 7 kn | W | 14 °C | 19 °C |
| December | 7 kn | SW | 11 °C | 17 °C |
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
The Maestral usually only fills in from midday – mornings are often light. In high summer (July–August) kiting on the main Zlatni Rat beach is restricted; launching and landing go through the designated kite schools. At 18–25 knots a mid-size setup works for most.
⚠︎ Hazards
Busy main swimming beach with many bathers and boats – respect the high-season kite restrictions and only launch via the schools. Pebble bottom, possible current in the channel.
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 Bol – Zlatni Rat suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Bol – Zlatni Rat suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate (water: Chop).
Which wind works at Bol – Zlatni Rat?
Best with wind from W (Maestral).
When is the best time for Bol – Zlatni Rat?
The best months are considered to be May–Sep.
How warm is the water at Bol – Zlatni Rat?
Over the year about 14 °C in February to 27 °C in July (model data).
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