Sylt – Hörnum
Germany · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Surfing
- Best winds W, NW
- Level Intermediate · Pro
- Water Waves
- Best months Sep–Apr
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About this spot
At the southern tip of Sylt, wave, current and wide open space come together. Hörnum is classic wave territory for wave windsurfers and wave kiters when the North Sea builds in W and NW – and far less crowded than Westerland. On the eastern side of the tip there is also a lighter-wind, partly standing-depth zone that works tide-independently in easterlies and gives beginners room too; the offshore islands of Amrum and Föhr knock down the swell during westerly storms.
When does Hörnum work best? The windy main wave season runs from September to April, when low-pressure systems stir up the North Sea. The spot mainly suits advanced and expert riders comfortable with current and waves.
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Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 52 % 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-west. The most reliable period runs from June to August. The least wind is in November (26 %). The water ranges from about 4 to 19 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
38 %
| 16 kn | W | 4 °C | 4 °C |
| February |
33 %
| 16 kn | W | 4 °C | 4 °C |
| March |
30 %
| 13 kn | NW | 5 °C | 6 °C |
| April |
40 %
| 13 kn | NW | 8 °C | 9 °C |
| May |
36 %
| 13 kn | NW | 12 °C | 14 °C |
| June |
41 %
| 12 kn | W | 16 °C | 17 °C |
| July |
52 %
| 14 kn | NW | 18 °C | 19 °C |
| August |
40 %
| 13 kn | W | 18 °C | 19 °C |
| September |
28 %
| 13 kn | W | 17 °C | 18 °C |
| October |
41 %
| 16 kn | NW | 13 °C | 13 °C |
| November |
26 %
| 15 kn | W | 8 °C | 10 °C |
| December |
29 %
| 16 kn | W | 5 °C | 7 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from W, NW (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
Classic wave spot: enter from the side and account for the southbound current. In pure east wind the shallow east side is the calmer, tide-independent option. Kiting is banned on the village beach – use only the permitted zones.
⚠︎ Hazards
Strong current at the harbour bulkhead on the flood and at the southern point on the ebb. Sharp-edged oyster beds in the shallows, cold water year-round. Mind the kite ban on the village 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
Trips & camps
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Frequently asked questions
Is Sylt – Hörnum suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Sylt – Hörnum is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Waves). There are 2 surf schools nearby.
Which wind works at Sylt – Hörnum?
Best with wind from W, NW. In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the north-west.
When is the best time for Sylt – Hörnum?
The best months are considered to be Sep–Apr. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (52 % of days).
How warm is the water at Sylt – Hörnum?
Over the year about 4 °C in January to 19 °C in August (model data).
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