Icaraí de Amontada
Brazil · Kitesurf · Wingfoil
- Best winds E (trade wind)
- Level Beginner · Intermediate · Pro
- Water Flat water
- Best months Jul–Jan
About this spot
Icaraí de Amontada – fondly called Icaraizinho by many – is a fishing village on the windy coast of Ceará, about a three-hour drive west of Fortaleza between Paracuru and Jericoacoara. In front of the village lies a long sandy beach with standing-depth water along the shore; at the eastern point of the bay, low tide reveals flat water around 1 to 1.5 metres deep, ideal for tricks and freestyle.
The wind is the easterly trade, blowing side-onshore from east to west. How reliable is the wind at Icaraí? In the July to January season the wind blows almost daily at 20 to 35 knots, strongest from August to November, with September the windiest month. Less crowded than the famous spots, it is a popular stop for downwinders and kite safaris between Cumbuco and Jericoacoara – suiting beginners through to experienced riders.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, September 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 east. The least wind is in March (34 %). The water ranges from about 27 to 30 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
74 %
| 13 kn | E | 27 °C | 29 °C |
| February |
63 %
| 12 kn | E | 27 °C | 29 °C |
| March |
34 %
| 10 kn | E | 27 °C | 29 °C |
| April |
36 %
| 10 kn | E | 27 °C | 30 °C |
| May |
71 %
| 12 kn | E | 28 °C | 29 °C |
| June |
85 %
| 14 kn | E | 28 °C | 28 °C |
| July |
96 %
| 15 kn | E | 27 °C | 28 °C |
| August |
99 %
| 17 kn | E | 27 °C | 27 °C |
| September |
100 %
| 18 kn | E | 27 °C | 27 °C |
| October |
100 %
| 18 kn | E | 27 °C | 27 °C |
| November |
98 %
| 16 kn | E | 28 °C | 28 °C |
| December |
97 %
| 16 kn | E | 28 °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 (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
Head for the flat-water zone at the eastern point of the bay at low tide – knee- to hip-deep and perfect for practising. Icaraizinho is a standard downwinder stage; a guided run towards Moitas is easy to add on.
⚠︎ Hazards
The side-onshore trade is relatively forgiving but strong (often over 25 knots), so choose your gear accordingly. Watch the tides: the flat-water area changes with the ebb and flow.
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 Icaraí de Amontada suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Icaraí de Amontada suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate · Pro (water: Flat water).
Which wind works at Icaraí de Amontada?
Best with wind from E (trade wind). In the windiest month (September), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the east.
When is the best time for Icaraí de Amontada?
The best months are considered to be Jul–Jan. According to the wind statistics, September has the most wind days (100 % of days).
How warm is the water at Icaraí de Amontada?
Over the year about 27 °C in September to 30 °C in April (model data).
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