When is the best time to kite at Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK)?

The best months at Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK) are Jan, Feb, Jun, Mar, Aug, Oct, Dec, Apr, Nov, Sep.

What level is Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK) suitable for?

Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK) is rated Beginner for kiters.

What is the water like at Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK)?

Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK) has Ocean, Flat Water conditions.

Kite spot

Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK)

Name: Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK)
Address: Scotland, United Kingdom

Scotland, United Kingdom

Beginner Ocean Flat Water Ocean

About Burghead Bay, Scotland (UK)

Burghead Bay offers sheltered, flat-water conditions ideal for beginners, but Scottish tidal currents and rocky shallows demand tide awareness and careful planning.

Avg wind

11.1 kts

Peak season

11.1 kts

Windy days/yr

140

Peak hours

15:00–18:00

Monthly wind profile

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Bars = average wind speed in knots. Solid = best months.

Best months

JanFebJunMarAugOctDecAprNovSep

Wind directions

WSWSWWSSWWNW

Amenities

Local beach access with parking facilities near Burghead villageBasic shops and cafes in nearby Burghead settlementRescue services and lifeguard coverage during peak seasons

Hazards

Cold water temperatures year-round requiring proper thermal protectionStrong tidal currents common in Scottish coastal bays affecting driftRocky outcrops and shallow areas near shore, particularly at low tideUnpredictable wind shifts due to coastal geography and weather systems

Launch notes

Flat water conditions make this ideal for beginners, but check tide times as shallow areas appear at low water. WSW to W winds are most consistent; launch from the beach when wind is cross-shore to on-shore.

Gear & clothing

Gear · Pack 14-17m kites for the moderate 11.1kt average winds; a directional twin-tip or beginner freestyle board works well in flat water. Have smaller 12m and larger 19m kites available for wind variation.

Clothing · Wear a 5/4mm wetsuit year-round due to cold North Sea temperatures; switch to 6/5mm during winter months (Jan-Feb). Consider a hood and booties for extended sessions.

Crowd & etiquette

Share the bay with other water users and respect any designated swimming areas. Keep clear of fishing activities and local maritime traffic.

Additional notes

Winter months and June offer the best wind consistency with 140 windy days annually spread across the calendar. Scout the bay at low tide beforehand to identify shallow hazards and optimal launch zones.

Features

Beginner Spot

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