River Woods Beach Club, Zout / West Flanders / Belgium

This is a spot for both kite surfing and windsurfing, and although it is on what appears to be exposed stretch of coastline it is actually a very easy and predictable spot to surf. Because of this it is suitable for everyone, from beginners to experts.

The beach consists of hard packed sand, it is long and wide and you will have plenty of room regardless of the time you come here. The climate is typical for the area, with a few weeks in summer the only time you can manage with shorts – in spring and   autumn and a wetsuit is needed, and if you come here in winter bring a dry suit as water temperatures won’t be any more than 5 or 6° C.

During the summer months there isn't really much wind, so the best time to come is from March to May or September to November. The best winds blow in from the south-west or the west, and will generally give between 10 and 20 knots although any strength is possible especially if there is a nearby depression.  The water is small and choppy with onshore winds, and as the wind strength increases you'll find waves building up to about 3 m high.  Tide doesn't really have any effect here, and the water is generally cloudy.

Like many other spots in Belgium, facilities here aren't too bad.  Showers and toilets are open to the public, there is a shop where you can buy gear, and there are food outlets dotted about. You are right on the edge of town, allowing easy access to entertainment and nightlife after you are done with the water.

Lifeguards patrol the beach, which is probably reassuring for novices but there aren't really any hazards here to worry about.