Fuerteventura – Sotavento
Spain · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil
- Best winds N, NE
- Level Beginner · Intermediate · Pro
- Water Flat water
- Best months May–Sep
About this spot
Playa de Sotavento in the south of Fuerteventura is one of the best-known wind spots in the Canary Islands and has hosted windsurf and kite world cups for decades. Its centrepiece is the kilometre-long lagoon that forms behind a sandbank at low tide: turquoise, often standing-depth flat water, ideal for freestyle, wingfoiling and first upwind runs. At high tide the lagoon disappears and riders move out to the open water with chop.
When is the best time to visit Sotavento? The north to north-east trade wind is strongest and most reliable in summer, typically June to August, often at 20 knots and more. Here the wind runs side-offshore along the coast – which is exactly why the water is so smooth, and also why the centres operate with rescue boats. Air temperatures are pleasant all year, and the water is usually around 19–22 °C.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, June is the windiest month: on 59 % 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 north. The most reliable period runs from April to July. The least wind is in October (19 %). The water ranges from about 19 to 23 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
28 %
| 10 kn | NE | 19 °C | 20 °C |
| February |
33 %
| 10 kn | N | 19 °C | 20 °C |
| March |
37 %
| 11 kn | N | 19 °C | 19 °C |
| April |
45 %
| 10 kn | N | 20 °C | 20 °C |
| May |
51 %
| 11 kn | N | 21 °C | 21 °C |
| June |
59 %
| 11 kn | N | 22 °C | 21 °C |
| July |
57 %
| 11 kn | N | 23 °C | 22 °C |
| August |
43 %
| 10 kn | N | 24 °C | 23 °C |
| September |
29 %
| 9 kn | N | 24 °C | 23 °C |
| October |
19 %
| 8 kn | N | 23 °C | 23 °C |
| November |
22 %
| 9 kn | N | 22 °C | 22 °C |
| December |
30 %
| 10 kn | NE | 20 °C | 21 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from N, NE (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
Read the tide table: the lagoon is only usable around low tide and fills quickly on the incoming water. Ride via a centre with a rescue service, especially if you travel alone. In high summer it often blows hard – pack a small kite or a small wing. Do not underestimate sun protection; the wind cools you down and is deceptive.
⚠︎ Hazards
Side-offshore wind: anyone who loses gear in open water or can no longer stay upwind drifts out to sea – dangerous without a rescue boat. On the incoming tide the current at the lagoon mouth increases noticeably. Strong trade wind brings gusts, especially close to the beach.
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 Fuerteventura – Sotavento suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Fuerteventura – Sotavento suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate · Pro (water: Flat water). There is one surf school nearby.
Which wind works at Fuerteventura – Sotavento?
Best with wind from N, NE. In the windiest month (June), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the north.
When is the best time for Fuerteventura – Sotavento?
The best months are considered to be May–Sep. According to the wind statistics, June has the most wind days (59 % of days).
How warm is the water at Fuerteventura – Sotavento?
Over the year about 19 °C in March to 23 °C in August (model data).
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