Kitesurfing Schellinkhout

Spring through early autumn generally offers the most consistent conditions. April, May, and September can be particularly good, with reliable wind and manageable temperatures. Summer adds longer daylight hours, making evening sessions very appealing. Winter sessions are possible but require full cold-water gear and careful attention to rapidly changing weather.

The spot looks well-suited for intermediate riders who are comfortable with flat to choppy lake conditions and can self-rescue if needed. Beginners should connect with the local kite school in the village before heading out independently. Advanced riders can enjoy the spot on windier days, though gusty conditions on the IJsselmeer can keep even experienced kiters on their toes.

Southwesterly and westerly winds are the most common and generally provide good cross-shore to cross-onshore conditions at Schellinkhout. The flat surrounding polder landscape allows wind to flow with relatively little obstruction, which is a real advantage. Northerly winds can also work but may alter the wave texture on the IJsselmeer noticeably.

Key hazards include ferry and recreational boat traffic on the IJsselmeer, shallow water sections near the shoreline, and gusty wind shifts that can develop quickly over open lake water. The foreshore is not a wide sandy beach, so launching without a helper can be tricky. Always plan your downwind exit point before heading out.

Given the variable nature of IJsselmeer winds, having a quiver with at least two sizes is advisable. A 9–11m kite covers a lot of the typical conditions here for an average-weight rider. On lighter summer days a 12–14m may be needed, while strong autumn or spring sessions could call for a 7–9m. Checking the forecast carefully before rigging will help you make the right call.

Schellinkhout is located about 3 km southeast of Hoorn in North Holland. By car, it is easily accessible via the regional road network through the polders — the drive through the Dutch countryside is genuinely scenic. Hoorn has a train station with connections to Amsterdam and other major cities, from where you can reach the village by local bus or taxi. Bringing a car is practical for transporting kite gear.

Yes, the village has a local kite school (Schellinkhout), the De Dregt bar and café for a post-session drink, and the de Oase restaurant for a sit-down meal. The village is small, however, so major gear shops and equipment rentals beyond the kite school are not guaranteed locally. It is worth bringing everything you need with you.

Yes, there is a kite school operating in Schellinkhout, making it a reasonable option for those looking to take lessons or improve their skills in a lake environment. Contacting the school in advance to check availability and lesson formats is recommended, particularly during busy summer months.

As an enclosed lake, the IJsselmeer produces no ocean swell, which means the water tends to be flat to moderately choppy rather than wavy. This makes it friendly for freestyle and freeride sessions. In stronger winds, a short punchy chop can build quickly across the open water, adding some challenge. Overall, the conditions look well-suited to practising technique and building confidence.

The IJsselmeer is a busy recreational waterway, so respecting right-of-way rules for other water users — including ferries and sailing boats — is essential. There may be designated kite zones near the launch area. It is worth checking with the local kite school or municipality for the most current rules and any seasonal restrictions before your visit.