Sakalava Bay

Madagascar · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil

  • Best winds E, SE (Varatraza)
  • Level Beginner · Intermediate · Pro
  • Water Chop
  • Best months May–Nov

About this spot

Sakalava Bay lies in northern Madagascar near Antsiranana (Diego Suarez) and ranks among the most wind-reliable spots in the Indian Ocean. The Varatraza trade wind – the local easterly – blows almost daily from roughly March/May to November; strength builds from 15–25 knots in spring through 20–30 knots in early summer to as much as 25–40 knots from July to September. The reef-protected bay of about 5 km² offers shallow, glassy water plus a side-onshore wind that always carries you back to the beach, with 1–2 m reef rollers just a few minutes' ride away.

When is the best time to visit Sakalava Bay? May to November, with the strongest wind in high summer. The sheltered flat water suits beginners and freeriders, while the reef rollers reward advanced and wave-minded riders.

Last updated:

Location

Wind & weather through the year

According to model data for 2021–2025, September is the windiest month: on 99 % 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 south-east. The most reliable period runs from May to October. The least wind is in January (4 %). The water ranges from about 25 to 29 °C over the year.

Month Wind days ≥ 12 kn Avg wind Direction Air Water
January
4 %
8 kn E 28 °C 29 °C
February
4 %
8 kn E 28 °C 29 °C
March
15 %
8 kn SE 28 °C 29 °C
April
59 %
12 kn SE 28 °C 29 °C
May
77 %
13 kn SE 28 °C 28 °C
June
87 %
14 kn SE 27 °C 27 °C
July
98 %
15 kn SE 26 °C 26 °C
August
95 %
15 kn SE 25 °C 25 °C
September
99 %
16 kn SE 26 °C 25 °C
October
87 %
14 kn SE 27 °C 26 °C
November
66 %
12 kn E 28 °C 27 °C
December
34 %
10 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, SE (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

In spring (15–25 kn) take bigger kites; from July to September go much smaller for the 25–40 kn. The side-onshore wind reliably brings you back – good for practising on the flat water before heading for the reef rollers.

⚠︎ Hazards

From July to September the Varatraza can blow very strong – size your kite accordingly. Mind the reef at the outer edge of the bay; reef means shallow, sharp patches.

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.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Sakalava Bay suitable for beginners?

Yes. According to the spot info, Sakalava Bay suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate · Pro (water: Chop).

Which wind works at Sakalava Bay?

Best with wind from E, SE (Varatraza). In the windiest month (September), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the south-east.

When is the best time for Sakalava Bay?

The best months are considered to be May–Nov. According to the wind statistics, September has the most wind days (99 % of days).

How warm is the water at Sakalava Bay?

Over the year about 25 °C in August to 29 °C in February (model data).

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