WWS

Hurghada and El Gouna · Egypt

Ashrafi Islands, Egypt

17.1kts

NNW · Wind season

307 windy days yearly in flat water. Beginner-friendly consistency without the gamble—build skills instead of chasing conditions.

BeginnerIntermediateFreerideFoil
17.1kts
Average wind
307
Windy days / year
15:00–18:00
Peak wind hours
NNW
Primary direction

Location

Nearest airports
Airport - Hurghada
Coordinates
27.7503, 33.6959
Open full map

Monthly wind profile (peak window)

18
Jan
19
Feb
19
Mar
19
Apr
20
May
20
Jun
17
Jul
20
Aug
20
Sep
18
Oct
18
Nov
17
Dec

Jan

76%

rideable

18.4 kts

Feb

84%

rideable

19.2 kts

Mar

69%

rideable

18.9 kts

Apr

82%

rideable

18.9 kts

May

85%

rideable

19.5 kts

Jun

95%

rideable

19.5 kts

Jul

85%

rideable

16.9 kts

Aug

94%

rideable

19.5 kts

Sep

98%

rideable

19.7 kts

Oct

92%

rideable

18.1 kts

Nov

78%

rideable

18 kts

Dec

69%

rideable

17 kts

Best wind directions

  • NNW
  • NW
  • N
  • ESE
  • WNW

Water conditions

  • Ocean
  • Flat Water

Best months

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

Hazards

  • Shallow reef and coral structures around the islands—watch depth and avoid sharp bottom contact
  • Occasional boat traffic from nearby resorts and diving operations in the area
  • Strong current variations during tidal changes affecting your drift and positioning
  • Sun exposure and dehydration in the desert climate—extended sessions without shade

What that means for you

  • Reef booties recommended at low tide
  • Strong current — walk back upwind, don't body-drag down
  • Watch for moored boats and marked channels
  • Mind your fins and lines in standing-depth water

Amenities

  • Kite schools and rental shops in nearby El Gouna and Hurghada
  • Resort facilities, restaurants, and accommodation within 15–20 minutes drive
  • Medical services and pharmacies available in Hurghada town center

Local tips

Book lessons or rentals through established operators in El Gouna for reliability and local knowledge. The 307 windy days per year make this a consistent spot, but always check wind forecasts before heading out as thermal variations are common.

Launch & beach

The flat water and shallow bay make launching straightforward for beginners. Dominant NNW and NW winds provide consistent offshore/cross-offshore conditions; launch early in the day before thermal winds shift.

Local etiquette

Respect designated kite zones if marked by local schools and stay clear of diving operations and boat channels. Coordinate with other kiters in this shared-use area, especially during peak seasons.

What to wear

A 2–3mm rashguard or spring suit provides sun protection and minimal thermal insulation year-round; water temperature stays warm (22–28°C). Bring a hat and high-SPF sunscreen for intense sun exposure.

What to pack

Kite sizes

  • 14–17 mlight wind, under 14 kn
  • 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
2 mm shorty or a rashguard.
On land
Light layers plus a windbreaker for the evening.

Derived from the spot's latitude (subtropical 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

Launch from shallow bays with NNW winds pushing offshore. The water stays flat—no chop, no shore break. You'll work on edge control and transitions without the ocean fighting back. Expect intense desert sun and UV that cuts through clouds. The islands are rocky; boat traffic from resorts and diving ops exists but stays manageable if you're aware.

Wind & Conditions

17.1 knots average is workable year-round. Enough to stay upwind on mid-sized gear, light enough that gusts won't throw you if your technique is still developing. NNW and NW winds dominate, running offshore to cross-offshore depending on launch point. Thermal winds shift afternoon conditions—get early sessions. That 307 windy days per year holds up; you can actually plan trips here instead of gambling on forecasts.

Water & Navigation

Reef and coral structures around the islands require active navigation. Don't space out—stay aware of depth and position. Tidal currents push harder than expected during tide changes. You'll feel it when holding station. Water stays warm enough year-round without a hood. Dehydration risk in the desert is real; bring more fresh water than you think you need. Stay clear of reef areas to avoid damage.

Who This Works For

Beginner to early intermediate. If you've stopped crashing constantly but need repetition work, flat water shows every technique flaw immediately. That's the value here. Advanced riders chasing challenge or waves should look elsewhere.

Access & Logistics

El Gouna and Hurghada sit 15–20 minutes away with actual services. Kite schools and rental shops in both towns are your entry point—this isn't a solo-figure-it-out spot. Hurghada has medical facilities and pharmacies. Accommodation ranges from resort packages to budget options. Book a week and you'll actually sail five days instead of hitting a flat spell.