Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 6 years of historical weather data.
14%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
8.5kts
Avg Wind
year-round
19°
Avg Temp
6yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🌊
Open OceanSpot Type
IntermediateSkill Level
NE45°Best Wind
Exposed to open sea with waves and stronger conditions
About This Spot
Cape Fear is a prominent coastal headland on North Carolina's coast facing northwest toward open Atlantic waters. The spot features a distinctive sand spit with rocky formations offshore, creating complex water conditions typical of exposed cape environments. The site experiences rough-chop conditions with modest wave heights (0.86m average) and relatively low wind reliability (13.6%), though average wind speed of 8.5 knots suggests moderate activity on better days. Best conditions occur with northeastern winds (45°) that provide side-shore conditions. The presence of offshore rocks and shallow areas near the sand spit requires careful navigation and route planning. This spot suits intermediate riders familiar with coastal dynamics and capable of handling variable conditions. The open-ocean exposure means conditions can deteriorate quickly, and the rocky features demand awareness of position relative to hazards. Winter months typically offer improved wind patterns. Tide and current management is essential due to the cape's coastal position.
Hazards & Safety
Rocky outcrops and rock formations visible offshore
Strong currents around cape point
Shallow areas near sand spit
Significant wave exposure and rough chop conditions
Coastal shipping traffic potential
Live Wind Forecast
Real-time wind conditions and 10-day forecast powered by ECMWF
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Wind speeds shown in knots (kt). Tap expand for full-screen view. Forecast updates every 6 hours from European weather model.
Water Conditions
Historical ocean data for wetsuit planning & water type
20°C
Avg Water Temp
0.9m
Avg Waves
⚠️ Rough Chop
Typical Conditions
🧥 5/4mm Fullsuit
Typical Wetsuit
Challenging chop, experienced riders
Wind Characteristics
SWDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
19%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
22%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
19%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 6 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
13%
9kts
9°feels 6°
11°
PM
~7d
Feb
15%
9kts
11°feels 9°
12°
PM
~7d
Mar
17%
9kts
15°feels 13°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water