Kite Destinations, Kitesurfing Spots

Kitesurfing in Saal

Experience the magic of kitesurfing in Saal, fondly known as "Saalifornia". Whether you're a beginner or a pro, Saal's pristine waters and vibrant community promise an unforgettable adventure.

Kite Spot Check

Hotspot

Saal

Best time

April – June
& September – October

Riding Level

Starting at beginner level

Water temperatures

ø 11,1 °C

Kite sizes to use

9, 10, 11, 12

Best WInd Direction

West – Northwest

Saal: Kitesurfing Paradise by the Baltic Sea

Affectionately dubbed “Saalifornia” by the Rostock locals, the vast shallow waters of Saaler Bodden, with its camping meadow right on the spot, is always worth a west-wind session. When the sun shines, the west wind in Saal is stronger than predicted. The convenience of launching right next to your car, tent, or camper makes the experience relaxed, fostering a beautiful sense of community. Whether you’re riding with a crew or flying solo, the vibes are always electric.

Saal’s allure isn’t just local chatter; it’s resonated beyond the borders of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. It’s a haven for kite rookies, freeride enthusiasts, and freestyle aficionados alike. And for those willing to invest the time saved from setting up next to their vehicles into high-flying adventures, even on crowded days, there’s ample space to joyfully kite with friends.

Spot Insights

Nestled between Rostock and Stralsund, Saal faces the Fischland-Darß peninsula. It’s been a kite hotspot for years. Thanks to the peninsula, the wind from the Baltic Sea remains largely undisturbed, allowing riders to enjoy pristine sea wind quality amidst picturesque meadows and reed landscapes.

The prime kite days in Saal are during spring (April-June) and autumn (September & October). Brave souls willing to swap their 5/4 wetsuits for a 6/4 and gear up with hoods, neoprene shoes, and gloves can also catch some epic winter sessions. Meanwhile, summer offers delightful 2mm shorty sessions with east wind thermals.

Freestylers revel in the southern bays, enjoying optimal flat-water conditions with their favorite kite sizes ranging from 9-Prime to 11-Heaven. But remember, always maintain a line’s length distance from the reeds to protect the flora and fauna. Beginners or those who crave space should exploit the vastness of the spot, finding a perfect practice area further out (even 700m out, it’s still shallow).

With a short mast and some leg power, foiling is also an option. Advanced riders can track their journeys, foiling to Born or grabbing a fish sandwich in Dierhagen or Wustrow.

The rise in campervan popularity and society’s shift towards leisure is evident on the surf meadow. While free camping and the joy of building “Bulli castles” might be missed, the trade-off of preserving the old and potentially closing the spot is a familiar challenge.

Thankfully, local surf schools are actively countering this. Saal remains a clean surf spot, treating nature with respect. The Surfcamp Saal offers excellent camping infrastructure, and besides a vast range of kite, windsurf, wingsurf, and SUP rentals and lessons, the black bus of Kitemafia and the red surf bus complement each other, especially in the culinary department.

Photographer: Saskia Spethmann

No Wind, No Worries in Saal?

When the wind subsides, the meadow breathes again, the spot empties, and a unique tranquility sets in. Most water sports enthusiasts from afar remain, making the most of the conditions with soft kites, large sails, wings, or theory lessons.

Digital nomads, nature lovers, and SUP enthusiasts aren’t left out. With good network coverage, power connections, and well-equipped surf stations, it’s easy to flip open a laptop and work amidst breathtaking surroundings or between wind sessions.

That’s why to truly feel the Saal vibe, it’s best to stay a few days. Embrace the calm on windless days and, when the wind picks up, dive headfirst into the thrilling waters.

Kitesurfing Without the Kite

At the dawn of the 2023 season, I ventured to Saal, driven by the simple desire to reconnect with friends, soak in the vibes, and catch a night’s rest. My journey was light, without a trace of kitesurfing gear, as I was traveling by train and, truth be told, only planned a brief stay.

However, as I reached Ribnitz-Dammgarten, borrowing a camper from a buddy, I felt the trees sway and the unmistakable “Westwind vibe” tingling in the air. I tried to brush off that inner adventurer’s nudge, convincing myself it was mere imagination and that I wasn’t really in the mood for kitesurfing. But as I continued the 15-minute drive to Saal, that feeling persisted, and my gut feeling, now shyly tucked away in my little toe, kept whispering its presence.

Rolling into the spot, the sight of 9-meter kites dancing in the sky against the backdrop of an impending sunset echoed a smug “Told you” from that very toe. With a racing heart and a hint of regret, I hopped out, searching for my mates. As expected, most were already riding the waves. However, one friend, fresh from her session, greeted me with a radiant smile, “Forgot your kite gear, didn’t you?” I nodded dejectedly, but her enthusiasm didn’t wane. “Look, there’s a 9-meter kite with a bar and pump from Noel lying around. Johanna’s Teach-Neo should be dry from this morning. Lena’s at the store, but her harness is by her bus. And if you’re cool with my 128 Torque, it’s all yours.”

Overwhelmed with gratitude, I managed a tight hug and a heartfelt “Thank you” before swiftly assembling this eclectic mix of kite gear. The session was brief and utterly intense, yet it stands as one of the most memorable rides of my life. It was born from sheer goodwill, a spirit of sharing, and an undying love for kitesurfing. Together, with the Salty Lemon community, we’re not just riding waves; we’re crafting memories and redefining kitesurfing history. 💛