Workum, located on the eastern shore of the IJsselmeer in the Dutch province of Friesland, is the crown jewel of Dutch freshwater kitesurfing. Famous for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and expansive shallow waters, Workum is a favorite destination for riders from the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium.

The ultimate standing-depth playground

The defining feature of Workum is its enormous shallow basin. The freshwater stays knee-to-waist deep for several hundred meters out into the IJsselmeer. This eliminates the fear of deepwater kite drops, making it the most forgiving environment imaginable for mastering waterstarts, transitions, and powered freestyle maneuvers.

Wind systems and orientations

The spot works best with Westerly winds—Southwest, West, and Northwest. Because these winds blow across the vast open surface of the IJsselmeer, they arrive steady and clean, blowing side-onshore into the bay. Easterly winds are offshore and should be avoided unless under direct school supervision with a safety craft.

Campsite culture and infrastructure

Kite life centers around Camping It Soal, situated right behind the green grassy dikes. Riders can step out of their tents or camper vans, walk past the dunes, and launch directly from the sandy beach. The on-site beach pavilion and surf shop provide everything needed for a seamless kite holiday.