Kitesurfing in Atins: season, wind stats & trip guide

What riding here is like

The most reliable wind runs from July through December, with August to November at the heart of the season.

The trades blow side-shore and usually build from late morning into the afternoon. In front of the village expect open sea, chop, and small waves; nearer the Preguiças river mouth there are shallower, flatter sections shaped by tide and current. Beginners should stay with a school: sandbanks move and the mellow view hides an active estuary. For independent riders, long downwinders between dunes and empty beaches are the reason to come.

Season history

Data period: 2000-2026

% of kiteable days (≥12kn)primegoodriskyoff-season

Monthly percentage of days with at least three daytime hours at or above 12 knots
Month	≥12kn %	≥15kn %	Mean wind (kn)
January	50	10	11.1
February	38	7	10.3
March	20	2	9.2
April	20	2	8.9
May	34	3	9.9
June	51	8	10.8
July	69	23	11.5
August	92	53	13.2
September	98	76	14.6
October	94	74	14.8
November	93	57	14.1
December	81	38	13.1

See the full month-by-month guide How we count kiteable days

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to kitesurf in Atins?

The best season in Atins runs from August to November, with up to 98% of days historically kiteable at the peak.

Is Atins good for beginners?

Yes. Atins caters to beginners, with mixed water and medium crowds in high season.

How do I get to Atins?

São Luís (SLZ) is the airport with the broadest flight choice. From there it is roughly 260 km to Barreirinhas, followed by either a speedboat on the Preguiças river or a 4x4 transfer over sand tracks to Atins. Allow most of a day and book the final leg before arrival, especially with kite bags. Once in the village, sandy streets make quad bikes, local trucks, and walking more useful than a normal car.

What to do in Atins when there is no wind?

Use the day to explore Lençóis Maranhenses: lagoon circuits around Canto do Atins change with the rainy season. Other options include a Preguiças river trip, scarlet ibis watching, and a long shrimp lunch in the village. Ask about current lagoon levels before booking outside mid-year.

Plan the trip

Getting there