A range of kites can save the day as the island experiences a wide range of wind speeds (often in one day) and Keel lake can provide some great speed sailing as well as offering a safe spot to practice before taking to the swells of Keel beach. Achill Island is the perfect spot for wind driven sports.
Recognised as one of the windiest spots in Ireland, it is unusual to go for prolonged periods (either in winter or summer) without suitable winds which prevail from the South West and blow side on-shore on Keel beach. Wintertime provides consistent deep ocean swell as well as short period local swell.
Keel lake can become a little shallow in dry periods during the summer, and sometimes weed growth can cause problems.
In the event of the wind swinging, then the beaches on the north shore come into play making the island suitable for most wind directions.
Summertime temperatures mean 3mm suits are good, but wintertime needs 5mm and gloves, hoods and boots!