El Cuyo

Mexico · Kitesurf · Wingfoil

  • Best winds E (trade wind)
  • Level Beginner · Intermediate · Pro
  • Water Flat water
  • Best months Nov–Jul

About this spot

El Cuyo is a remote fishing village on the northern tip of Yucatán, set between the Gulf of Mexico and the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. A kilometre-long, deserted sandy beach and shallow water that only becomes chest-deep 50 to 70 metres from shore make this one of the safest learning venues in the region – the original alternative to Tulum and Cancún.

Thanks to the thermal effect of the hot Yucatán flatland behind the coast, the wind blows here almost every day. In the main season the easterly trade delivers a steady 18 to 23 knots from February to June, while the Norte season from December to February brings bigger swell. Is El Cuyo good for beginners? The shallow, wide standing water is ideal for learning, while strong north winds turn it choppy to wavy – material for more experienced riders. Suits beginner to pro.

Last updated:

Location

Wind & weather through the year

According to model data for 2021–2025, April is the windiest month: on 51 % 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 east. The most reliable period runs from April to July. The least wind is in September (6 %).

Month Wind days ≥ 12 kn Avg wind Direction Air
January
15 %
10 kn E 25 °C
February
30 %
11 kn E 25 °C
March
36 %
12 kn E 27 °C
April
51 %
12 kn E 27 °C
May
51 %
12 kn E 28 °C
June
42 %
10 kn E 28 °C
July
39 %
10 kn E 29 °C
August
14 %
9 kn E 29 °C
September
6 %
8 kn E 29 °C
October
17 %
10 kn E 28 °C
November
13 %
10 kn E 27 °C
December
25 %
10 kn E 26 °C

Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from E (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

The shallow standing water out to about 50 to 70 metres from shore is perfect for first sessions. In the Norte season (Dec to Feb) expect bigger swell and gustier north wind.

⚠︎ Hazards

In strong Norte winds the water turns choppy to wavy and the wind gustier. Remote location within a nature reserve, so respect the limited infrastructure and protected zones.

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 El Cuyo suitable for beginners?

Yes. According to the spot info, El Cuyo suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate · Pro (water: Flat water).

Which wind works at El Cuyo?

Best with wind from E (trade wind). In the windiest month (April), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the east.

When is the best time for El Cuyo?

The best months are considered to be Nov–Jul. According to the wind statistics, April has the most wind days (51 % of days).

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