Sylt – Westerland
Germany · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Surfing
- Best winds W, NW
- Level Intermediate · Pro
- Water Waves
- Best months Sep–Apr
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About this spot
Westerland on Sylt is the classic of German surfing and windsurfing. The Windsurf World Cup has been held at Brandenburger Strand for decades, and nowadays the GKA Kite-Surf World Cup as well. The west coast of the island faces the open North Sea: in westerly to north-westerly wind, proper North Sea waves roll in and break between the groynes and sandbanks.
When is the best time to visit Sylt? Autumn and winter deliver the strongest winds and the best waves, but water and air are cold. Summer is calmer and warmer; on many days it is more suitable for surfing small swell or for SUP. Westerland is a spot for intermediate and advanced riders; beginners are better off learning on the Wadden Sea side of the island or with one of the local surf schools.
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Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 56 % 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 least wind is in November (27 %). The water ranges from about 4 to 19 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
39 %
| 17 kn | W | 4 °C | 4 °C |
| February |
35 %
| 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 |
32 %
| 13 kn | NW | 12 °C | 13 °C |
| June |
41 %
| 12 kn | W | 15 °C | 17 °C |
| July |
56 %
| 14 kn | NW | 17 °C | 19 °C |
| August |
40 %
| 13 kn | NW | 18 °C | 19 °C |
| September |
29 %
| 13 kn | W | 17 °C | 18 °C |
| October |
41 %
| 17 kn | NW | 13 °C | 13 °C |
| November |
27 %
| 16 kn | W | 9 °C | 10 °C |
| December |
28 %
| 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
Swimming zones are lifeguarded in season and off limits to kiters and windsurfers – follow the local signs and the lifeguards. Around the world cups (kite usually in summer, windsurf in autumn), parts of Brandenburger Strand are closed. In winter a 5/4 wetsuit with hood, boots and gloves is a must.
⚠︎ Hazards
Strong currents along the groynes and tetrapods – rip currents pull seawards. Groynes and rock revetments can be submerged at high tide. The water is very cold from autumn to spring and hypothermia is a real risk. Do not go out in offshore easterly wind.
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 Sylt – Westerland suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Sylt – Westerland is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Waves). There are 2 surf schools nearby.
Which wind works at Sylt – Westerland?
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 – Westerland?
The best months are considered to be Sep–Apr. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (56 % of days).
How warm is the water at Sylt – Westerland?
Over the year about 4 °C in January to 19 °C in August (model data).
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