Ireland · Ireland
Cross Slab Beach, Ireland
20.1kts
SSW · Wind season
301 windy days annually and flat water make Cross Slab a reliable beginner launchpad. Show up, ride, repeat.
- 20.1kts
- Average wind
- 301
- Windy days / year
- 08:00–11:00
- Peak wind hours
- SSW
- Primary direction
Location
- Nearest airports
- Airport - Dublin
- Coordinates
- 54.1131, -10.0925
Monthly wind profile (peak window)
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
- Flat Water
Best months
Hazards
- Cold Atlantic water temperatures requiring proper thermal protection year-round
- Strong tidal currents common to Irish coastal spots affecting drift and navigation
- Shallow flat water can create choppy conditions with wind shifts and gusts
- Rocky outcrops and submerged obstacles near shore requiring careful launch/landing zones
What that means for you
- Walk gear out — don't drag downwind across rocks
- Strong current — walk back upwind, don't body-drag down
- Mind your fins and lines in standing-depth water
Amenities
- Local beach facilities and parking nearby
- Nearby villages with cafes and shops for supplies
- Potential kite schools or rental shops in the region
Local tips
With 301 windy days annually, this is one of Ireland's most consistent spots for kitesurfing. Check tide times before sessions as tidal ranges can affect water depth and launch zones.
Launch & beach
Flat water conditions make this ideal for beginners, with gentle launching possible in consistent winds. Best launch angles are with SSW to SW winds hitting the beach directly.
Local etiquette
Respect other water users and local fishing activity common in Irish coastal areas. Keep clear of swimmers and check local beach guidelines before sessions.
What to wear
A 5/3mm winter wetsuit is essential October-April with booties and gloves for Atlantic temperatures. Summer (May-September) allows 3/2mm suits, but water rarely warms above 14°C.
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
- 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
- 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
- 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
- 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
- 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.
Spot guide
Wind & Conditions
SSW to SW winds hit the beach consistently. You'll see 20+ knots regularly—enough to dial your quiver to your skill level rather than chase conditions elsewhere. Wind fills in and stays steady. Flat water chops up when gusts peak or wind shifts, but it's workable for building fundamentals.
The Water
Cold Atlantic year-round. Bring thermal protection. Strong tidal current is the real factor—you will drift. Check tide charts before sessions and plan around them. Rocky outcrops and submerged features close to shore mean deliberate launch and landing zones. Don't get casual.
Who It's For
Beginners after consistent wind and flat water. Riders who don't want to chase conditions across the country. Anyone comfortable in cold water and aware of tide timing. Skip this if you need warm water and beach infrastructure.
Getting There
Local parking and basic beach facilities exist. Villages nearby have shops and cafes. Confirm kite schools or rental spots before arrival—don't show up guessing. It's functional and straightforward.
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