Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 4 years of historical weather data.
15%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
8.3kts
Avg Wind
year-round
12°
Avg Temp
feels 9°
4yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🏖️
BaySpot Type
BeginnerSkill Level
E90°Best Wind
Partially sheltered coastline with moderate, varied conditions
About This Spot
Chalkwell is a sheltered bay spot on the Essex coast of the Thames estuary in southeast England. The coastline faces south toward the water, with suburban residential areas backing the narrow beach. This is a protected shallow-water bay characterized by minimal wave activity and modest wind conditions typical of southeast England's maritime climate. The spot functions as a flat-water, light-wind location suitable primarily for beginners and progression riders. Best conditions occur with easterly or westerly winds that run parallel to the shore. The extremely low wind reliability (14.6%) and minimal average swell (0.22m) indicate this spot rarely offers ideal kitesurfing conditions. Water temperature averages 11.8°C, requiring a wetsuit year-round. Key considerations include shallow draft requirements, awareness of river currents from the Thames estuary, proximity to boat traffic, and coastal structures. This location suits riders seeking flat-water practice in protected conditions rather than performance riding.
Hazards & Safety
Low wind reliability (14.6%)
Minimal wave energy (0.22m average)
Shallow water conditions
River mouth currents from Thames estuary
Boat traffic from nearby marina and shipping channels
Mudflats and shallow banks
Groynes and coastal defense structures visible
Live Wind Forecast
Real-time wind conditions and 10-day forecast powered by ECMWF
Loading wind forecast...
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
13°C
Avg Water Temp
0.2m
Avg Waves
🪞 Flat Water
Typical Conditions
🥶 6/5mm + Boots/Gloves
Typical Wetsuit
Glass-like conditions, perfect for foiling & beginners
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
25%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
16%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 4 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
24%
8kts
5°feels 1°
8°
PM
~10d
Feb
24%
9kts
7°feels 3°
7°
PM
~9d
Mar
15%
8kts
8°feels 5°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water