Editing Lagoa de Albufeira (section)

== Kitesurf Conditions ==
The dominant wind is the '''Nortada''' — Portugal's signature north-to-northwest thermal that builds through the morning and peaks in the afternoon, typically from around 13:00–14:00. It's a reliable, clean wind when it's on.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Season !! Months !! Wind (knots) !! Character
|-
| Peak || May–September || 15–25 || Consistent NW thermal daily, flat water in the lagoon
|-
| Shoulder || October, April || 12–20 || Less frequent, occasional stronger days
|-
| Off-season || November–March || Variable || SW storms possible, choppy ocean side; lagoon can be gusty
|}

'''The Lagoon (Lagoa Grande)''' — flat, chest-high water in most places, ideal for beginners and freestyle. This is the main kite zone. Watch out for shellfish farming platforms marked with buoys — give them a wide berth. In summer the lagoon fills with swimmers and the mouth is dredged in May, which can make it crowded mid-season.

'''The Ocean Side''' — step over the sandbar and you're in Atlantic beach-break territory. Side-onshore conditions make it workable for more experienced riders looking for waves. Be aware of the strong current in the channel where the lagoon mouth meets the sea — it has caught out experienced water-users in very shallow water. Treat it seriously.

'''Kite sizes''': 9–12m covers most of peak season; go up to 14–17m for shoulder months or lighter days.