Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 6 years of historical weather data.
3%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
6.9kts
Avg Wind
year-round
18°
Avg Temp
6yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🏄
Beach BreakSpot Type
BeginnerSkill Level
NW315°Best Wind
Waves breaking on sandy bottom, varied conditions
About This Spot
Topsail Island is a developed barrier island in North Carolina with a northeast-facing shoreline that transitions from protected lagoon waters to open Atlantic Ocean. The spot features a long sandy beach with moderate wave exposure and relatively sheltered conditions due to the lagoon system behind the island. The presence of a pier and residential infrastructure limits ideal launch and landing areas. Best conditions occur with northwest winds (315°), which provide side-shore flow parallel to the beach. The very low wind reliability (3.5%) and modest average waves (0.81m) make this primarily a beginner-friendly spot, suitable for practicing fundamentals rather than pushing technical progression. Water temperatures average 18°C, requiring seasonal exposure protection. Kiters should be aware of shallow transitions between lagoon and ocean zones, avoid the pier area entirely, and check local restrictions in residential zones before launching.
Hazards & Safety
Shallow lagoon areas with mudflats north of main beach
Pier structure visible in central area - collision risk
Residential development with limited launch/landing zones
Variable water depth transitioning from lagoon to open ocean
Potential boat traffic in developed harbor areas
Low wind reliability (3.5%) limits session frequency
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
20°C
Avg Water Temp
0.8m
Avg Waves
🏄 Waves
Typical Conditions
🧥 5/4mm Fullsuit
Typical Wetsuit
Proper waves for wave riding
Wind Characteristics
SDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
7%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
15%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
8%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 6 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
2%
7kts
8°feels 5°
11°
PM
~8d
Feb
3%
7kts
11°feels 8°
12°
PM
~7d
Mar
5%
8kts
14°feels 12°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water