WWS

Ireland · Ireland

Aghleam, Ireland

20.1kts

SSW · Wind season

Aghleam delivers 301 windy days yearly on Ireland's exposed Atlantic coast. Expect solid wind, heavy chop, and water cold enough to demand respect.

IntermediateAdvancedFreerideFreestyleFoil
20.1kts
Average wind
301
Windy days / year
08:00–11:00
Peak wind hours
SSW
Primary direction

Location

Nearest airports
Airport - Dublin
Coordinates
54.1222, -10.1251
Open full map

Monthly wind profile (peak window)

25
Jan
24
Feb
22
Mar
21
Apr
18
May
20
Jun
18
Jul
23
Aug
21
Sep
24
Oct
25
Nov
27
Dec

Jan

90%

rideable

24.9 kts

Feb

95%

rideable

24 kts

Mar

82%

rideable

22.2 kts

Apr

73%

rideable

21.4 kts

May

60%

rideable

18.3 kts

Jun

88%

rideable

20.1 kts

Jul

81%

rideable

17.8 kts

Aug

82%

rideable

22.9 kts

Sep

92%

rideable

21.3 kts

Oct

85%

rideable

23.9 kts

Nov

78%

rideable

24.8 kts

Dec

82%

rideable

26.9 kts

Best wind directions

  • SSW
  • S
  • SW
  • WSW
  • W

Water conditions

  • Ocean
  • Choppy

Best months

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Hazards

  • Choppy Atlantic swell and strong currents require solid swimming ability and situational awareness
  • Rocky outcrops and shallow areas near shore demand careful launch and landing zones
  • Cold water and exposure risk; always use proper safety equipment and inform someone of your session

What that means for you

  • Walk gear out — don't drag downwind across rocks
  • Strong current — walk back upwind, don't body-drag down
  • No riding in marked swim areas
  • Mind your fins and lines in standing-depth water

Amenities

  • Limited facilities typical of rural Irish coastal spots; bring supplies from nearby towns
  • Parking available near beach access points
  • Seasonal accommodation and cafes in surrounding villages

Local tips

Aghleam receives exceptional wind consistency (301 windy days annually), making it reliable for progression. Always check local tide tables and respect the powerful Atlantic conditions.

Launch & beach

SSW to W winds dominate this exposed Atlantic location. Sand/shingle beach launch is generally straightforward, but scout your entry point for rocks and currents before rigging.

Local etiquette

Respect other water users and local fishing activity. Check tide conditions and local weather forecasts before sessions, as conditions can change rapidly.

What to wear

A 5/4mm winter wetsuit is essential year-round due to Irish water temperatures (8-14°C). Add gloves, booties, and a hood during winter months.

What to pack

Kite sizes

  • 11–14 mtypical sessions, 14–22 kn
  • 8–10 mstrong days, 20–28 kn

Boards

  • Twintip — universal, bring one

What to wear (by climate)

In the water
4/3 mm full wetsuit with boots.
On land
Insulated jacket and beanie — layer up.

Derived from the spot's latitude (cold-temperate zone) and current season.

Right of way & manners

  1. 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
  2. 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
  3. 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
  4. 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
  5. 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.

Spot guide

The Experience

Aghleam sits on Ireland's west coast, fully exposed to Atlantic swell and wind. It's not a casual stop—you're committing to rough ocean conditions and a rugged beach of sand and shingle. Scout entry points before rigging. Shallow patches and rocky outcrops demand local knowledge or careful reconnaissance.

Wind & Conditions

301 windy days annually keeps this spot in regular rotation. SSW to W winds dominate year-round, with peaks in January, February, and September. The trade-off is chop. Atlantic swell stacking against consistent wind creates the kind of choppy water that punishes poor technique. You will get worked. Plan for it.

Water

Cold. Strong currents run through here regardless of your experience level. Check tide tables before launch—not as a suggestion. Winter kit is mandatory, not optional.

Who It's For

Intermediate kiters with solid boat handling and edge control. You need situational awareness and the ability to stay composed in rough conditions. If you're still drilling your pop on flat water, go elsewhere.

The Scene

Rural. Sparse amenities. Stock supplies from nearby villages before you arrive. Seasonal accommodation and cafes exist in surrounding areas, but this is a working coastal region, not a resort setup.