Surfing in Czechia
Including Lipno Dam, Mácha's Lake, and Nechranice Reservoir. On the map.
The vibe
Surfing is geographically impossible in this landlocked nation, as there are no ocean swells or coastal breaks. You will find no surf culture here, as the terrain is defined by forests, hills, and inland waterways.
Lipno Dam
South Bohemian Region
User:Aktron / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Lipno Dam is the premier inland spot for wind sports in Czechia, offering reliable thermal and frontal winds. The wide reservoir hosts a vibrant community of windsurfers, kitesurfers, and increasingly wingfoilers who take advantage of the choppy inland waters. It's an accessible destination for flat-water training and progression during the windy spring and autumn months.
Access. Located in South Bohemia, easily reached by car from České Budějovice. Equipment rental and windsurf/wingfoil schools operate out of major resort towns like Černá v Pošumaví and Lipno nad Vltavou.
Notes. Shared water space with recreational sailors and swimmers during summer; watch out for occasional submerged obstacles near the banks.
Mácha's Lake
Liberec Region
Zákupák / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Mácha's Lake (Máchovo jezero) is a popular recreational lake in northern Bohemia with a long-standing history of windsurfing and small-scale board sports. The relatively shallow basin catches steady breezes, attracting recreational windsurfers and wingfoil learners. Summer brings a lively watersports scene right off the main sandy beaches.
Access. Located near Doksy, about an hour's drive north of Prague. Windsurfing equipment and seasonal rentals are available directly at the main resort beaches.
Notes. Very busy with swimmers and paddleboarders in July and August; water sports are best enjoyed in the shoulder seasons or early mornings.
Nechranice Reservoir
Ústí nad Labem Region
Petr Kinšt / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Nechranice Reservoir on the Ohře River in northwest Bohemia is known for generating some of the strongest and most consistent winds in the country due to local valley funnelling. It is a dedicated hotspot for windsurfers and wingfoilers looking for challenging choppy conditions and open-water runs. The active local club scene frequently hosts regional regattas and clinics.
Access. Located near Chomutov and Kadaň, accessible by car via Route 13. Launch areas and basic facilities are located near Vikletice.
Notes. Water temperatures can be cold outside of summer; winds can pick up unexpectedly, requiring caution for intermediate riders.
Nové Mlýny Reservoirs
South Moravian Region
Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The Nové Mlýny cascade in South Moravia features expansive water surfaces exposed to strong northerly and southerly winds, making it a favorite for regional kiteboarders and wingfoilers. The middle and lower reservoirs provide broad stretches of choppy water ideal for planing and long-distance sessions. A dedicated kitesurfing zone operates on the expanse near Pasohlávky.
Access. Situated south of Brno, accessible via the E461 highway. Local kite schools and rental spots are set up along the shores near Pasohlávky during the season.
Notes. Strict zoning laws apply for kitesurfing to protect local nature reserves; always check designated launch areas.