The Ultimate Year-Round Guide to Kitesurfing Destinations: Where to Kitesurf Each Month
The beauty of kitesurfing is that, no matter the time of year, there’s always a destination somewhere in the world offering ideal conditions. Whether you’re chasing strong winds, warm waters, or exotic locations, this guide will help you plan your kitesurfing adventures for every month of the year. From tropical paradises to windswept coastlines, here’s where to kitesurf month by month.
January: Cape Town, South Africa
January is peak season for kitesurfing in Cape Town, South Africa. Known as one of the world’s premier kitesurfing destinations, Cape Town offers consistent winds (the famous “Cape Doctor”), stunning beaches, and a vibrant kitesurfing community. Bloubergstrand is the hotspot, with its iconic view of Table Mountain as a backdrop. The conditions are perfect for all levels, from beginners to advanced riders.
- Wind conditions: Strong and reliable, averaging 20-30 knots.
- Water temperature: 15-18°C (a wetsuit is recommended).
- Other activities: Wine tours in Stellenbosch, hiking Table Mountain, and exploring Cape Point.
February: Boracay, Philippines
February is an excellent time to visit Boracay in the Philippines. Bulabog Beach is the kitesurfing hub, offering flat water and steady winds. The island’s tropical vibe, vibrant nightlife, and warm weather make it a favorite among kitesurfers.
- Wind conditions: Moderate, 15-25 knots.
- Water temperature: 26-28°C (no wetsuit needed).
- Other activities: Scuba diving, island hopping, and enjoying White Beach’s nightlife.
March: Le Morne, Mauritius
March marks the end of the windy season in Mauritius, but Le Morne remains a fantastic spot for kitesurfing. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a mix of flat water lagoons and challenging wave spots, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Le Morne Brabant mountain.
- Wind conditions: Moderate, 15-20 knots.
- Water temperature: 26-28°C (no wetsuit needed).
- Other activities: Snorkeling, hiking Le Morne Brabant, and dolphin watching.
April: Tarifa, Spain
Tarifa, located at the southern tip of Spain, is a kitesurfing mecca in Europe. April marks the beginning of the kitesurfing season here, with consistent winds and pleasant weather. The town’s laid-back vibe and lively kitesurfing culture make it a must-visit destination.
- Wind conditions: Levante (strong) and Poniente (mild), 15-30 knots.
- Water temperature: 16-18°C (a wetsuit is recommended).
- Other activities: Exploring the old town, visiting Gibraltar, and enjoying tapas.
May: El Gouna, Egypt
May is an ideal time to visit El Gouna, a purpose-built resort town on Egypt’s Red Sea coast. Known for its flat, shallow lagoons and reliable winds, El Gouna is perfect for beginners and freestyle enthusiasts alike.
- Wind conditions: Steady, 15-25 knots.
- Water temperature: 24-26°C (no wetsuit needed).
- Other activities: Diving in the Red Sea, desert safaris, and exploring nearby Hurghada.
June: Cabarete, Dominican Republic
June marks the start of the kitesurfing season in Cabarete, a vibrant town on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. Known for its warm waters, consistent trade winds, and lively atmosphere, Cabarete is a favorite among kitesurfers of all levels.
- Wind conditions: Reliable, 15-25 knots.
- Water temperature: 27-29°C (no wetsuit needed).
- Other activities: Paddleboarding, canyoning, and enjoying Cabarete’s nightlife.
July: Maui, Hawaii, USA
July is prime kitesurfing season in Maui, one of the most iconic kitesurfing destinations in the world. Kanaha Beach Park is the go-to spot, offering a mix of flat water and waves. Maui’s stunning landscapes and aloha spirit make it a bucket-list destination.
- Wind conditions: Strong and consistent, 20-30 knots.
- Water temperature: 25-27°C (no wetsuit needed).
- Other activities: Surfing, hiking Haleakalā, and exploring the Road to Hana.
August: Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia, an Italian island in the Mediterranean, is a fantastic kitesurfing destination in August. Porto Pollo and Punta Trettu are the main spots, offering flat water and consistent winds. The island’s natural beauty and rich culture add to its appeal.
- Wind conditions: Moderate, 15-25 knots.
- Water temperature: 22-24°C (a shorty wetsuit is recommended).
- Other activities: Exploring ancient ruins, hiking, and indulging in Sardinian cuisine.
September: Dakhla, Morocco
September is one of the best months to visit Dakhla, a remote kitesurfing destination in the Western Sahara region of Morocco. The Dakhla Lagoon offers flat water and reliable winds, making it ideal for freestyle and beginners.
- Wind conditions: Steady, 15-25 knots.
- Water temperature: 22-24°C (a shorty wetsuit is recommended).
- Other activities: Yoga, exploring the desert, and enjoying fresh oysters at local farms.
October: Cumbuco, Brasil
August is the start of the windy season in Cumbuco, a small fishing village turned kitesurfing paradise in northern Brazil. With its steady trade winds, warm waters, and endless lagoons, Cumbuco is a haven for kitesurfers. In October, where Europe starts slowing down, Brasil is the place to go!
- Wind conditions: Strong and reliable, 20-30 knots.
- Water temperature: 27-29°C (no wetsuit needed).
- Other activities: Downwinders to Lagoa do Cauípe, dune buggy rides, and enjoying fresh seafood.
November: Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka
November marks the start of the kitesurfing season in Kalpitiya, a hidden gem on Sri Lanka’s northwest coast. The Kalpitiya Lagoon offers flat water and steady winds, while nearby wave spots cater to more advanced riders.
- Wind conditions: Moderate, 15-20 knots.
- Water temperature: 27-29°C (no wetsuit needed).
- Other activities: Dolphin watching, exploring Wilpattu National Park, and enjoying Sri Lankan curry.
December: Zanzibar, Tanzania
December is a fantastic time to visit Zanzibar, an exotic island off the coast of Tanzania. Paje Beach is the kitesurfing hub, offering flat water lagoons and steady winds. The island’s white sandy beaches and turquoise waters create a picture-perfect setting.
- Wind conditions: Reliable, 15-25 knots.
- Water temperature: 27-29°C (no wetsuit needed).
- Other activities: Snorkeling, spice tours, and exploring Stone Town.
Conclusion
With the right planning, you can chase the wind year-round. From the warm waters of the tropics to the rugged coastlines of Europe, there’s a destination for every month and every type of rider. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn or an experienced kitesurfer seeking your next adventure, this guide will help you make the most of your kitesurfing journey. So pack your gear, book your tickets, and get ready to ride the wind!
Have fun,
Boris
