Pontevedra

Lourido beach is generally oriented to the south, which provides winds from the E, SE, S, SW, and W sectors that are often suitable for kitesurfing. With the configuration of the ria, a W wind arrives more side-on shore from the right, while an E wind is more side-off from the left and quickly becomes technical, especially for less autonomous riders. Schools generally prefer winds from S to SW, which offer a side to side-on wind that is safer.

The water surface is mostly flat to choppy, with small short waves in case of established wind or incoming swell in the ria. At low tide, one enjoys a wide shallow area in front of the beach with moderate chop, ideal for learning and relaxed freeride. At mid-tide and high tide, the level rises quickly, the area where one can stand decreases, and the chop becomes more pronounced, especially when the wind strengthens or turns SW.

Launching is done directly from the sandy beach, which offers a large surface for rigging and launching kites. The central part of the beach is often used by the local kitesurfing center for courses, with a clearly identified launch and landing zone. It is preferable to keep this area clear to allow instructors to work and to step slightly aside to rig independently. The wind can be irregular, with some gusts, particularly in SE or W winds when disturbed by the relief around the ria.

One mainly rides along the axis of the bay, taking tacks parallel to the beach. The further one moves out to sea, the deeper the water becomes and the longer the chop, but it remains a freeride-type spot without real surf waves. Several areas are shared with windsurfing, wingfoiling, and sometimes small boats or vessels coming from the nearby port of Pontevedra, which requires staying attentive to other users. At high tide, the beach is reduced and there may be more bathers, which requires well-mastered launching and landing.

Overall, Lourido is a practical and accessible spot, widely used for initiation and improvement, with often moderate wind and a rather forgiving water surface. Autonomous riders will appreciate the long tacks on relatively flat water, but must remain vigilant to the tidal current, potential rocky areas at the end of the beach, and wind variations related to the relief of the ria.