Wissant – Cap Gris-Nez
France · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil
- Best winds W, SW, NW
- Level Intermediate · Pro
- Water Chop
- Best months Sep–May
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About this spot
The crescent bay of Wissant lies in the Grand Site des Deux Caps between Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez, right on the English Channel. The channel's narrows funnel west and northeast winds and accelerate them through a venturi effect at the capes – Wissant counts among the windiest stretches of coast in France and is a classic destination for the Belgian and northern French scene.
The ideal range runs from southwest (with waves) to northeast (flatter). At 12 to 15 knots the bay stays flat; from around 15 knots it turns into a wave spot. Which tide works? Low water is clearly preferable – at high tide the surf reaches the stone promenade and the spot becomes dangerous. Because of current, waves and wind it suits intermediates and pros rather than beginners.
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Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, October is the windiest month: on 53 % 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-west. The most reliable period runs from October to February. The least wind is in April (25 %). The water ranges from about 8 to 20 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
48 %
| 15 kn | SW | 6 °C | 8 °C |
| February |
48 %
| 15 kn | SW | 7 °C | 8 °C |
| March |
32 %
| 13 kn | SW | 8 °C | 9 °C |
| April |
25 %
| 13 kn | SW | 9 °C | 11 °C |
| May |
34 %
| 12 kn | SW | 12 °C | 13 °C |
| June |
36 %
| 12 kn | SW | 16 °C | 17 °C |
| July |
45 %
| 12 kn | SW | 18 °C | 19 °C |
| August |
44 %
| 12 kn | SW | 18 °C | 20 °C |
| September |
38 %
| 12 kn | SW | 17 °C | 18 °C |
| October |
53 %
| 14 kn | SW | 15 °C | 16 °C |
| November |
51 %
| 15 kn | SW | 11 °C | 13 °C |
| December |
51 %
| 16 kn | SW | 8 °C | 10 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from W, SW, 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
Ride at low water – at high tide the surf reaches the promenade. SW brings waves, NE is flatter; from ~15 knots Wissant becomes a wave spot.
⚠︎ Hazards
At high tide breaking waves reach the stone promenade – do not go out then. Channel current and strong, gusty acceleration at the capes.
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is Wissant – Cap Gris-Nez suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Wissant – Cap Gris-Nez is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Chop).
Which wind works at Wissant – Cap Gris-Nez?
Best with wind from W, SW, NW. In the windiest month (October), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the south-west.
When is the best time for Wissant – Cap Gris-Nez?
The best months are considered to be Sep–May. According to the wind statistics, October has the most wind days (53 % of days).
How warm is the water at Wissant – Cap Gris-Nez?
Over the year about 8 °C in January to 20 °C in August (model data).
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