KITEWIND

Westermakelsdorf on Fehmarn is a classic Baltic Sea spot that splits opinion among kiters. It's appreciated for its relatively uncrowded feel and clean wind on westerly directions, but criticized for tricky access and a less-than-beginner-friendly setup.

Wind & Conditions

• Wind directions: Works best in W-NW-N. Many regulars praise the steady, sideshore to side-onshore wind on good days, especially compared to more crowded southern Baltic spots.
• Water state: Opinions diverge: some riders like the moderate chop and small waves that form with stronger wind, calling it “good all-round practice water.” Others find it “too choppy to really relax” and feel it never quite delivers proper wave riding.
• Tide & depth: The Baltic has no real tide here, but the water is relatively shallow nearshore. That's welcomed by many intermediates, yet there are repeated comments about sandbanks and stones that can surprise you at low water or in shorebreak.

Spot Layout & Access

• Launch area: Kiters disagree here: some say “enough beach if you know what you're doing,” while several describe the launch as narrow, uneven and crowded in peak times, especially when windsurfers and beachgoers mix in summer.
• Entry: The bottom is a mix of sand, seagrass and scattered stones. A number of riders strongly recommend booties, citing sharp shells and hidden rocks. Others downplay it as “normal Baltic stuff,” but even they admit you should walk carefully.
• Parking & walking distance: There's a small parking area near the dyke; in high season it fills quickly. Some users complain about a “long, annoying walk over the dyke with gear”, while others consider it acceptable for a relatively quiet spot.

Crowds & Atmosphere

• Crowds: Compared to Gold or Wulfener Hals, kiters repeatedly describe Westermakelsdorf as less crowded, especially outside summer holidays. However, on a solid westerly weekend it can still feel busy due to the limited launch area.
• Vibe: Reports skew positive: “relaxed,” “uncomplicated,” and “mostly experienced riders.” A few newcomers felt the scene was a bit closed-off and local, especially when asking for help on the beach, but this doesn't seem to be the dominant experience.

Safety & Level Suitability

• For beginners: Many reviews suggest this is not the first choice for absolute beginners due to the narrow beach, stones and sometimes gusty wind near the shore. If you're learning, several kiters recommend Fehmarn's lagoon-style spots instead.
• For intermediates & advanced: Confident riders generally like Westermakelsdorf for freeride and directional-board practice. You get space on the water and dependable wind in the right directions, as long as you can handle choppy conditions and self-launch/land if needed.
• Hazards: Recurrent mentions include stones, submerged groynes and fishing gear/lines further downwind. Staying well upwind and scouting the area at low water is recommended by locals.

Overall Verdict for Kiters

Westermakelsdorf is a solid, wind-reliable Baltic spot for intermediate to advanced kiters who value space on the water over comfort on the beach. User opinions are fairly consistent:

• Pros (often mentioned): good wind in W-NW, relatively uncrowded outside high season, shallow areas, relaxed freeride conditions.
• Cons (repeated complaints): tight and stony launch, choppy water that doesn't please everyone, need for booties, parking and access can be inconvenient.

If you're an experienced kiter touring Fehmarn, Westermakelsdorf is worth a stop when the forecast lines up, especially if you dislike the mass crowds at the island's headline spots. If you're still learning or want easy, forgiving terrain, other Fehmarn locations will likely serve you better.