Ortigueira

Ortigueira is a sheltered bay on Spain's northern Atlantic coast in Galicia, characterized by a wide sandy beach fronting mixed woodland and agricultural land. The bay opens toward the northeast with rocky islands guarding the entrance. Water conditions are typically rough with moderate swell penetration, and the sandy bottom creates variable depths across the bay. This spot functions as a protected bay that captures north and northwest winds as side-shore conditions. The low wind reliability (7.1%) makes consistent sessions challenging, requiring patience for suitable conditions. The moderate average wave height (2.02m) and cool water temperature (15.1°C) suggest Atlantic coastal exposure. Best conditions occur with northwesterly winds providing side-shore flow parallel to the beach. The spot suits intermediate kiters comfortable with variable conditions and coastal complexity. Key considerations include monitoring tidal changes affecting sandbars, respecting the rocky entrance areas, and planning around the limited wind window. The forested backdrop and scattered development indicate a semi-developed coastal area with environmental sensitivity.