Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 4 years of historical weather data.
10%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
7.4kts
Avg Wind
year-round
16°
Avg Temp
4yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🏄
Beach BreakSpot Type
BeginnerSkill Level
Waves breaking on sandy bottom, varied conditions
About This Spot
Santa Cruz is a west-facing beach break located on Portugal's central coast, approximately 40km north of Lisbon. The spot features a long, sandy beach backed by extensive residential and commercial development. The coastline orientation toward the Atlantic provides consistent exposure to Atlantic swells. The beach break characteristics make it suitable for intermediate kiters, though the low average wind reliability (9.8%) and modest wind speeds (7.4 knots average) suggest this spot requires favorable weather windows. The water type is classified as rough, indicating variable conditions. Best conditions occur with northerly winds (0°), which provide side-shore access parallel to the beach. The extensive coastal infrastructure and populated beach areas require kiters to be aware of launch zones and potential obstacles. Water temperatures average 16.5°C, necessitating wetsuits. Average wave height of 1.99m indicates modest swell, suitable for learning and progression rather than advanced wave riding. This spot works best during winter Atlantic storms or consistent northerly wind patterns.
Hazards & Safety
Coastal development and infrastructure near launch areas
Strong currents along the beach break
Rocky outcrops visible along the shoreline
Shallow water zones close to shore
Populated beach areas requiring careful navigation
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
16°C
Avg Water Temp
2.0m
Avg Waves
🌊 Rough
Typical Conditions
🧥 4/3mm Fullsuit
Typical Wetsuit
Very rough conditions, advanced only
Wind Characteristics
NDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
14%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
25%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
14%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 4 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
15%
8kts
12°feels 10°
15°
PM
~10d
Feb
12%
7kts
13°feels 11°
15°
PM
~7d
Mar
14%
8kts
14°feels 12°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water