In Croatia you ride mostly thanks to a summer thermal wind, the maestral. It picks up in the afternoon, from west to north-west, between the islands and the mainland. It is not a strong wind: a 12 m kite is often what you need.
The water is warm and clear, the spots are few but well known, and windless mornings leave time for other things.
The season runs from May to September, at its best from June to August, when the maestral is most reliable. It picks up around 2 or 3 pm and blows until evening.
In May and September the bora, a stronger north-easterly, blows more often. In spring the jugo, a south-easterly, brings bad weather and waves.
Best period : May to September
In November: 19% kiteable days
Historical monthly averages, not a forecast.
These averages come from a coarse-grid weather model. It does not see the maestral, the summer thermal wind that picks up in the afternoon between the islands. For the season, trust the text.
The Neretva Delta, near Ploče, is the busiest spot in the country. Large shallow areas make it suitable for beginners. The wind is offshore there: if it drops, head back to where you can stand. A bathing area sits right next to the spot.
Bol, on the island of Brač, benefits from a wind that funnels between two islands on most summer days. Kiting may be banned on the main beach in July and August: ask on site. Povlja, on the same island, works in bora.
Viganj, on the Pelješac peninsula, is said to be the windiest place in Croatia. Nin, in the north, has a flat-water bay.
Gear. The thermal is light to moderate. Bring your big kites.
Timing. The wind picks up in the afternoon. Mornings are calm.
Swimmers. In summer the beaches are very busy. Keep your distance and respect the zones.
Kiteloopers référence les spots, les écoles, les hébergements et les voyages de la destination, avec la météo en direct. Tout ce qu'il faut pour partir au bon moment.
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