Top 7 Kitesurfing Spots in the World
Whether you are a seasoned kitesurfer, an enthusiastic amateur, or an eager novice, these destinations will not disappoint. From North America to East Asia to Africa, we have whittled the windy meccas down to seven premier locations–the seven beaches with the most consistent winds, the longest kiting season, and the most arresting vistas.
- Maui, Hawaii – Widely considered the best kitesurfing destination in the world, Maui promises warm and windy days all year round. With water temperatures hovering around 84ºF, you can leave your wetsuit at home. Spread out and launch your kite beneath Hawaiian rainbows, because with Maui’s conditions you will never have to compete for beach space.
- Cabarete, Dominican Republic - Every third week of June, Cabarete hosts the world’s largest kiteboarding competition bringing in hundreds of the best kiters from across the globe. Yearlong favorable conditions sustain the kiting frenzy well past the end of the week. Caberete offers experienced instructors in protected coves as well as strong winds and waves for the most advanced riders
- Tarifa, Spain - Known as the Wind Capital of Europe, kitesurfing has become a staple in the Southernmost tip of Spain. Over fifteen kiteboarding schools keep the sky filled with more kites than birds. The strength and direction of winds ensure a good ride for any level student almost every single day of the year. Summer crowds may be intimidating, but the well-respected safety rules and mellow atmosphere keep Tarifa a beautiful and comfortable place to progress.
- Cape Hatteras, North Carolina – The large, flat, shallows of North Carolina’s Outer Banks are the envy of all other kitesurfing destinations in the continental United States. From April to November, Hatteras provides ample space and wind for learning the basics or learning new tricks. Although the South Westerly continues to blow throughout the winter, colder air and water temperatures keep kitesurfers away.
- Hua Hin, Thailand – Kitesurf right by the village of Hua Hin or ask your kitesurfing instructor to take you to one of the more remote beaches for pedestrian-free kiting. A well-stocked kite shop, welcoming kitesurfing community, and charming village backdrop make Thailand an ideal place for some aquatic fun.
- Boracay Island, Philippines – Boracay Island is the quintessential beach paradise with scenery so magnificent it may threaten the focus of a new kitesurfing student. Fine white sand slips into a protected lagoon where the kitesurfers play. Local custom combined with increased tourism weave a place only fit for fairy-tales.
- Cape Town, South Africa – From October to March beneath the gaze of Table Mountain, kitesurfers can be spotted dancing over the water. Large swells and consistent winds make Cape Town a prime destination for riders who live for waves. Waves for surfing, waves for ramps, waves and wind enough for any rider every day the sun shines.
If these seven windy shores don’t strike your fancy, try one of four other notable kiteboarding destinations that just missed our list: Cumbuco, Brazil; Essaouira, Morocco; Dahab, Egypt; and Gokova, Turkey.
Besides these tried and true kiting locations, new kiting schools continue to throw anchor wherever the winds blow. A nearby lake, or a forgotten inlet of a popular coast may become the next best kitesurfing locale. Chances are, you won’t have to look very far to have a kiteboarding adventure.
Just pick a school, pack a suit, and prepare to fly.
Category: Vaykay Life
