Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 6 years of historical weather data.
25%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
9.6kts
Avg Wind
year-round
11°
Avg Temp
feels 9°
6yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🏖️
BaySpot Type
IntermediateSkill Level
E90°Best Wind
Partially sheltered coastline with moderate, varied conditions
About This Spot
Garretstown is a sheltered bay located on the south coast of County Cork, Ireland. The bay faces south toward open Atlantic water, with a sandy beach backed by low-lying residential and commercial development. The spot benefits from a natural harbor formation that provides protection from westerly swells, though this also limits wave size to modest conditions typical of Irish beach breaks. The presence of extensive mooring fields and boat traffic indicates this is an active maritime area requiring awareness of other water users. Wind conditions favor easterly flows for side-shore kitesurfing, though the bay's orientation means westerly winds would be on-shore. Water temperatures and conditions reflect the Atlantic's cool temperate climate. This spot suits intermediate kiters comfortable with confined waters, variable wind patterns, and the need to navigate around marine traffic. Low wind reliability (24.7%) suggests sessions are seasonal and require patience. The shallow bay means waves rarely exceed 2 meters, making this unsuitable for advanced wave riders seeking larger conditions.
Hazards & Safety
Shallow sandy areas and sandbars visible in imagery
Significant boat traffic and moorings visible in bay area
Rocky outcrops and reef structures at northern point
Strong tidal currents common in bay systems
Limited fetch distance reduces wave development
Parking and residential areas restrict launch zones
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
12°C
Avg Water Temp
1.4m
Avg Waves
🌊 Rough
Typical Conditions
🧥 5/4mm Fullsuit
Typical Wetsuit
Very rough conditions, advanced only
Wind Characteristics
NWDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
27%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
34%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
24%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 6 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
27%
10kts
7°feels 3°
10°
PM
~13d
Feb
47%
12kts
8°feels 4°
9°
PM
~16d
Mar
34%
10kts
8°feels 4°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water