Ideal Wind: SW (Cleanly over the spit) Viable Wind: S, SSW, SW, WSW, W
SW, S (Flat water behind Hurst Spit)
15-25 knots is the sweet spot for most; 4-5m wings in lighter air, switching to 3m wings when it exceeds 28 knots.
Best at High Tide (+/- 2 hrs) for depth within the channel before the marshes dry. Access is restricted at other tidal states.
14 Day - Tide Calendar for Keyhaven →Overall
Offers butter-flat water behind Hurst Spit, perfect for freestyle and learning.
Vibe & Crowds
Professional and social. A very active training centre vibe with excellent support. Moderate. Busy during the narrow tidal window, but very friendly.
Suitable For
The lack of sea swell makes it one of the safest places to learn.
Negatives & Hazards
Extremely shallow at low tide; narrow channels; moored boats and dinghy racing.
Keyhaven
Open in Google MapsLaunch from the public slipways near the quay; parking is available in the village.
Best 2 hours either side of High Tide. The area dries to mud and salt marshes quickly.
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at support@knotnow.co.uk
Wind and weather forecasts for Keyhaven are provided to help you plan your sessions. Conditions at this coastal location can change quickly, so always check the actual conditions when you arrive and trust your judgment. These forecasts are for recreational planning—always prioritize safety and verify conditions yourself before heading out. Tidal predictions for Keyhaven are based on the nearest primary station at LYMINGTON (3km away). Local conditions can vary from these predictions due to coastal topography and weather effects. Always verify tidal conditions on arrival—these predictions are for planning purposes only, not for navigational use or critical safety decisions.