37.13 | -8.63
The Ria de Alvor (also called Alvor Lagoon) is one of the best kitesurfing spots in Portugal, located between Lagos and Alvor in western Algarve. This natural estuary is considered a hidden gem — a flat water paradise with shallow, warm, crystal-clear water on a sandy bottom.
The lagoon is sheltered from ocean waves and offers ideal conditions for beginners, freestylers, freeriders and foilers. At mid to high tide, vast flat areas appear between sandbanks, perfect for all levels. The four internal channels create distinct riding zones.
Wind is powered by the famous Nortada — Portugal's thermal NW-N wind, funnelled between Lagos bay and the Serra de Monchique mountains. It blows most afternoons from April to September, reaching 15-25 knots with remarkable consistency. Often windier here than anywhere else in the Algarve thanks to the funnel effect.
Meia Praia beach (5 km long) sits on the Lagos side — more open water with some chop, good for intermediate freeride. Praia de Alvor on the east side offers similar conditions.
Access from Odiáxere via Vale de Lama road (dirt road ~600m). Lagos city is 15 min away — vibrant, young, hipster atmosphere with many kite camps and accommodations.
Best conditions: April to September, mid-tide rising to high tide. Water 17-21°C (3/2mm wetsuit in summer, 4/3mm off-season).
Algarve Watersport / The Kitehouse — IKO certified kite school with camp (dorms/rooms/bungalows) above Meia Praia. Private and group lessons. algarvewatersport.com
Kitesurf Lagos School — on the lagoon spot. Equipment rental and lessons.
Kite Control Lagos — lessons on the lagoon and Meia Praia.
Beginner
Open all year round
Mussel beds: submerged at high tide, can cut feet. Water shoes strongly recommended.
Tidal currents: four main current channels cross the lagoon — avoid low tide when currents concentrate. Safest at mid-tide rising.
Boats and divers: the channel gets busy in summer with boats entering/exiting Alvor. Keep distance from divers and fishermen on the Alvor side.
Kite schools: the lagoon is very popular for lessons. At mid-low tide it gets crowded with beginners near the channel. Give them space.
Nortada: thermal NW-N wind from April to September, starting late morning and peaking afternoon (15-25 knots). Funnelled by the Serra de Monchique mountains creating consistently strong conditions in this lagoon specifically. South wind also works but lighter. Best sessions: afternoon to sunset.
07:10 | 18:24
Currently, there is no weather station at this spot. If you want to change this, help us fund one: Weather Station Project
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