Ilha de Faro

Ilha de Faro is a barrier island lagoon spot located off southern Portugal's Algarve coast. The site features a protected lagoon system separated from open ocean by a sandy barrier peninsula. The coastline orientation faces northeast toward the lagoon, with residential development along the barrier island's waterfront. This is a shallow-water lagoon environment rather than open ocean, characterized by low wave energy (0.96m average) and protected conditions. Best conditions occur with northwesterly winds providing side-shore flow along the northeastern-facing lagoon shore. The spot suits beginners and early intermediates due to flat water and minimal wave hazards, though the shallow lagoon bottom and sparse wind reliability (4.4%) present limitations. Water temperatures average 18.9°C, requiring seasonal wetsuit consideration. Kiters should be aware of residential proximity, marshy areas, and variable wind patterns typical of lagoon environments. The low average wind speed of 6.2 knots indicates this spot is marginal for consistent kitesurfing and works best during seasonal wind patterns or specific weather windows.