Generally the water is flat, when the tide is out it is waist deep for a couple of hundred meters. However when south easterly it does get bit choppy. At 4pm everyday the largest car ferry in Europe comes in and generates a nice few waves to ride. The water quality, average, up to recently it was a bit polluted but the most technological advanced water treatment plant in the world has recently been opened nearby and it is hoped that Dollymount will achieve blue flag status for 2004.
The beach is 3km long, compact sand, car accessible. Rocks about 100m either side of the entrance to stop people driving the length of the beach. Not really any hazard to kitesurfers.
Generally no wind in August. 16+12 sqm kites for summer and 12+9 sqm for winter. Normally onshore or sideonshore winds. Not many squalls, but can be a bit gusty. Wind 4-5 times a week from 6-30 knots. Best directions: SE, S, SW. When in Ireland you can dial 0879124913 for an uptodate weather report from an automated windmeter installed by the kiters. Calls cost about 30 cents.
Please note Dollymount strand is on Bull Island and maybe spotted faster on the maps. Go North out of Dublin, keeping the harbour on your right. As you get closer there are clear sign posts for Dollymount Strand. You will probably also see kites flying if the weather is OK. Take the bigger road on to the island (not the wooden bridge). You can drive onto the beach. The beach is popular for all kinds of kiting. 15 min drive from Dublin city and 15 min drive from Dublin airport.
We are now using the wooden bridge end. We got a designated kite launch area there. Please wear a kite leash. Beware of boy racers and learner drivers at the weekend. Windsurfers appear on really windy days. Kitebuggys appear when tide is out, variance of 200m. Always kiters around.
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