Chalkwell in Essex has a nice friendly vibe with windsurfers out most days. This spot is good for beginner, intermediate and advanced windsurfers.
Wet n Dry Boardsports team and staff are often there to help you out if you have any problems. Plenty of parking in front of the rigging area, however on very sunny days and school holidays it can get busy. Rigging is on a large green in front of the beach. (which is managed and leased by Essex Windsurf Club). Non-members are welcome to use the rigging green although membership to the club is only £10 per year!
Nearest postcode SS0 8JH
Tides You can windsurf 3 hours either side of high tide, however, it can vary depending on spring and neap tides and low and high pressure. If not sure please feel free to give the shop a ring on 01268 569988.
Best Winds for Chalkwell Beach
SW. (Cross on from the left) This is the prevailing wind direction and probably the most common. This direction can offer some great blasting, it tends to flatten off with the tide going out. Best sailing is with the tide coming in.
S. (On Shore) This direction can be good however at hi tide can be a bit confused with large chop near the beach. It’s also a good idea to rig a bit bigger because there can be a bit of a wind shadow and you need to sail upwind to get out.
West. (Cross shore from the right) Best on an incoming tide, the water tends to flatten off as the tide turns. Westerly can swing NW as a weather front comes through.
NW. (Cross off from the right) This direction can be a bit gusty however, it tends to flatten the water off which is great for fast sailing up towards Leigh-on-Sea. Some of my best days windsurfing have been in this direction. Rig for the lulls the flat water helps hold down a big rig.
E and SE (Cross shore and Cross on from the left) we very rarely get this direction, mainly in the spring as a sea breeze. Or when a high-pressure system moves in. On very hot days it can really pick up late in the afternoon as London warms up and pulls the cool air in from the North Sea. Best on an outgoing tide.
For more info or if you would like to join Essex Windsurfing Club please call the shop 01268 569988
