Laboe
Germany · Kitesurf · Windsurf · SUP
- Best winds N, NW, W
- Level Beginner · Intermediate
- Water Chop
- Best months Apr–Oct
About this spot
Laboe sits on the east side of the Kiel Fjord, opposite Strande, between Kiel and Heidkate. Against the backdrop of the U995 submarine and the naval memorial, a huge shallow-water area stretches out: the first 200 to 400 metres are knee to hip deep, partly very shallow with mussel banks. That makes the spot ideal for learning and gives plenty of wind security. The Baltic here is tide-free – no tidal window, flat to light chop.
The area works mainly in west to northwest and in easterly wind; Laboe is one of the few spots near Kiel that also works in southwest – though southwest pushes water out of the fjord and it can then get too shallow for windsurfers. Best time is April to June and September to October. A relaxed harbour beach with plenty of infrastructure, a school and a short drive from Kiel.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 38 % 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 most reliable period runs from June to July. The least wind is in November (18 %). The water ranges from about 3 to 20 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
29 %
| 13 kn | W | 4 °C | 4 °C |
| February |
30 %
| 12 kn | W | 4 °C | 3 °C |
| March |
26 %
| 10 kn | W | 6 °C | 5 °C |
| April |
28 %
| 10 kn | W | 8 °C | 9 °C |
| May |
23 %
| 10 kn | W | 13 °C | 14 °C |
| June |
29 %
| 10 kn | W | 17 °C | 17 °C |
| July |
38 %
| 11 kn | W | 19 °C | 20 °C |
| August |
26 %
| 10 kn | W | 19 °C | 20 °C |
| September |
19 %
| 10 kn | W | 17 °C | 18 °C |
| October |
30 %
| 12 kn | W | 13 °C | 13 °C |
| November |
18 %
| 12 kn | W | 8 °C | 9 °C |
| December |
24 %
| 12 kn | SW | 4 °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 N, NW, W (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
Great for learning: wide, standing-depth shallow area with high wind security. In southwest the water is pushed out – it can get too shallow for windsurfers. Watch for mussel banks.
⚠︎ Hazards
Mussel banks in the shallows – shoes advisable. In southwest the water can recede strongly. Mind shipping traffic toward the fjord fairway.
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 Laboe suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Laboe suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate (water: Chop). There are 4 surf schools nearby.
Which wind works at Laboe?
Best with wind from N, NW, W. In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the west.
When is the best time for Laboe?
The best months are considered to be Apr–Oct. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (38 % of days).
How warm is the water at Laboe?
Over the year about 3 °C in February to 20 °C in August (model data).
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