Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 4 years of historical weather data.
18%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
8.8kts
Avg Wind
year-round
12°
Avg Temp
feels 10°
4yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🏖️
BaySpot Type
BeginnerSkill Level
E90°Best Wind
Partially sheltered coastline with moderate, varied conditions
About This Spot
Cowes is located on the Isle of Wight's northern coastline, facing north toward the Solent strait. The spot consists of a sheltered bay with residential development and green spaces occupying the peninsula. The waterfront shows evidence of significant maritime activity, including sailing infrastructure and mooring areas typical of this historic sailing destination.
The spot suits beginners due to protected waters and modest wave heights (0.42m average), though low wind reliability (18.3%) means sessions are inconsistent. Best conditions occur with easterly winds that provide side-shore orientation. Water remains choppy rather than forming clean wave patterns, making this better suited for flat-water freestyle or light wind practice than wave riding.
Key considerations include navigating around boat traffic, which is constant in this area, and managing shallow zones near shore. Average wind of 8.8 knots requires patience for consistent sessions. The sheltered nature limits fetch and swell development. Intermediate kiters transitioning to lighter winds and beginners practicing in forgiving conditions will find this more suitable than those seeking challenging wave riding.
Hazards & Safety
Boat traffic - active sailing area and harbor
Shallow water zones near shore
Residential infrastructure close to water
Low wind reliability (18.3%)
Small wave heights limiting progression
Choppy water conditions
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
13°C
Avg Water Temp
0.4m
Avg Waves
💨 Choppy
Typical Conditions
🧥 5/4mm Fullsuit
Typical Wetsuit
Normal wind chop, typical conditions
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
23%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
30%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
21%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 4 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
25%
9kts
6°feels 3°
9°
PM
~8d
Feb
28%
10kts
8°feels 4°
8°
PM
~8d
Mar
19%
9kts
9°feels 5°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water