Mexico
Ixpalbarco Beach is located on the east coast of Cozumel, in the Mezcalitos area. It is a long, clean, and uncrowded sandy beach, ideal for riders looking for space.
This spot mainly attracts intermediates and experts for its nice waves and crystal-clear water. It is easily accessible by renting a car from downtown Cozumel.
The atmosphere is calm, with few bathers, perfect for focusing on kiting without crowds.
The wind data shown here comes from ERA5 (via Open-Meteo) over 4 years, reprocessed to reflect realistic conditions.
👉 Average wind has been calibrated to avoid the usual underestimation of models.
👉 Gusts have been corrected by a median ratio to avoid unrealistic extreme values.
👉 Each day is summarized by the median wind (P50) observed during useful hours (8am–8pm), then classified into wind ranges.
👉 The weighted mode mixes average wind and gusts to best reflect felt wind.
wave
chopThe prevailing winds come from the East, making for perfect onshore wind for this exposed spot on the east coast of the island. With average winds of 15-20 knots, it is ideal for riding the small to medium waves formed by the nearby coral reef.
Launching is done directly from the sandy beach, but be cautious of the few scattered rocks. The navigation area extends along the long and wide beach, with space to jibe without issue. For takeoff, choose a clear area upwind, away from rocky zones.
The water surface varies with conditions: chop to moderate on days with consistent east wind, and surfable waves rise when the wind strengthens or with a Norte. No strong tide influence here, but check forecasts for cold fronts that boost the wind. Thermals reinforce the trade winds from December to May, making 60-70% of the days kiteable.
Ideal conditions are East winds at 15-25 knots, onshore generating perfect waves. Northeast during Nortes boosts sessions for experts.
The water is crystal clear with a sandy bottom and some rocks. The water surface offers small to medium waves, surfable and fun, especially with an East wind.
No pure flat here, but nice chop on soft days.
There is a moderate undertow at this ocean spot, to be cautious of after the waves. The currents are generally manageable but stronger near the reefs.
The tides do not significantly impact navigation, but high tide softens the waves and makes launching easier.
Opt for 9 to 12 m² sizes in medium East wind. Go smaller like 7-9 m² for strong Norte days, and larger up to 13 m² if the wind drops.
The wind pattern follows the trade winds from the East, reinforced by thermals in the dry season. The main directions are N, E, S, with East being the most consistent and onshore for Ixpalbarco.
When a cold front (Norte) arrives from November to December, the North or Northeast winds pick up strength, perfect for waves. Check the forecasts a few days ahead, as the wind can shift from a gentle side-on to powerful sessions.
The climate in Cozumel is hot tropical year-round, with temperatures around 24-30°C in winter and up to 32°C in summer. The dry season from December to May offers the best conditions, stable and sunny.
During the rainy season (June-November), there may be short showers, but the best months for kiting are January to May and December.
The depth increases quickly after a shallow area near the shore. The bottom is mainly sandy with rocks and coral offshore.
The water remains warm year-round, around 26-29°C. In winter (December-March), expect 26°C, and up to 29°C in summer.
