Woolacombe

Putsborough Sands

Royaume-Uni · England

Intermediate

Oct → Mar

24.7 kt

↓ Flat

↑ Waves

Woolacombe

Putsborough Sands, on the coast of North Devon near Woolacombe, is a popular spot for its large sandy beach and relatively easy access. It is a sought-after place by local riders for its often calmer conditions than other beach breaks in the bay.

The spot works best when the swell comes in well from the Atlantic, with a more sheltered setting than the northern part of Woolacombe. In kitesurfing, Putsborough is appreciated for its consistent conditions, its launch area, and its generally less crowded atmosphere.

The beach attracts both freeriders and those looking for a more relaxed session, especially when the wind is well-oriented and the tide leaves room to navigate. However, the spot should be read carefully, as conditions can change quickly depending on the tide and swell size.

Live wind & forecast

Windy

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Climate stats — monthly averages

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Location

Detailed information

The spot is generally more favorable with a wind from the W to NW sector, which often arrives side-shore to side-on on the beach. With a wind from the SW sector, conditions can become more comfortable than elsewhere in the bay, as Putsborough is better sheltered than the most exposed area of Woolacombe. A wind that is too onshore can quickly make navigation more physical, especially if the swell increases, while a wind that is too offshore should be avoided for obvious safety reasons.

The water surface depends a lot on the tide and the size of the waves. At low tide, there is often more space and a more readable navigation area, with a sea that can remain quite clean at the shore. At high tide, the usable beach reduces, waves may break closer to the shore, and the shorebreak becomes more present. The spot remains primarily a beach break, so one should expect a water surface that can go from relatively orderly to significantly more agitated as soon as the swell comes in strongly.

Launching is done from the large sandy beach, with a take-off area to be chosen far from other beach users. The best navigation direction depends on the wind of the day, but it is important to keep space for take-off and return phases, as the bay can quickly become crowded with bathers, surfers, and walkers in high season. The spot is more comfortable when the tide leaves a wide band of sand and when the swell remains moderate.