Fehmarn (Gold / Grüner Brink)

About this spot

Fehmarn is Germany's most famous kitesurf island, linked to the mainland by the Fehmarnsund bridge. Its big advantage is choice: with coastline facing every direction, there is almost always a spot where the wind blows on- or side-shore. Gold, on the south coast near the bridge, is the classic flat-water spot — a wide, shallow area of standing-depth water with a sandy bottom, perfect for learning and freestyle. Grüner Brink, on the north coast, is the go-to for northerly winds, with flatter water close to shore and more chop further out.

At Gold the beach faces south: south-west, south and south-east winds are onshore to side-onshore, while west and east run side-shore along the coast and still work well. North winds are offshore at Gold — move to Grüner Brink or another north-facing spot instead. This card's compass describes Gold; check the wind direction and choose the correct side of the island before you go. Near the bridge and harbours keep clear of shipping lanes and moored boats.

Infrastructure is excellent: kite schools, shops, campsites and parking around each main spot, plus Europe-level events (e.g. the Surf Festival). Kiting zones, nature-reserve boundaries (some areas are protected bird reserves) and parking fees are strictly enforced and change by season — check local signage.