The Kitesurfing Holiday Bucket List
Dreaming about a kitesurfing holiday? I know I usually am. Kitesurfing and travel combine our two favorite pastimes. What better way to see the world than to look for beaches suited for a kitesurfing holiday. Kitesurfers are, after all, adventurous people chasing adrenaline wherever they go. Moreover, with kitesurfing now being the fastest growing watersport, more and more destinations are becoming popular among kitesurfers who like to travel.
How we picked these Kitesurfing Holiday Destinations
We have put together this short list of kitesurf destinations from around the world! At the present time, I have been to all of these destinations (with the exception of Kenya and Brazil). Eventually, this list will grow as I continue to travel and discover new kitesurf spots. Nevertheless, we hope this list gives you inspiration and crucial information to help you get out on the water. Below, I will cover the pros and cons, when to go, how to get to and from these destinations, and general travel commentary.
Now, let’s get into it!
Our Kitesurfing Holiday in Fiji
This was one of the best kiting experiences of my life. It was just me and one other kiteboarder who had the entire bay to ourselves. Crystal clear flat water protected by a reef, and an entire island that you can walk all the way around in 1 hour. This means you can find a beach in any wind direction. Although the first 3 days the wind was quite still, we still had so much fun. Jet-skiing out to a pristine sand island with crystal clear water above a coral reef. Perfect for snorkeling! We took a boat out to surf the famous reef breaks and had an amazing time surfing and SUP-ing followed by sipping cocktails!
Then, the wind came. The wind was NE so we kitesurfed the northern beach (onshore). It was quite powerful and wavey, great for boosting! Around the corner, the western beach was protected, and flat. It was a bit risky kiting there as the wind turned easterly (cross-shore) I thought I may get blown into the pacific ocean.
However, the best spot to kitesurf on Mana Island is the protected bay (pictured). There is loads of space, is much safer, more beautiful, and an absolute paradise for kitesurfing.
First, you need to fly to Nadi International Airport, and then organise a boat transfer out to Mana Island. Which takes about 1 hour. There are 3 accommodation choices. The more expensive is the resort. There is a dive center that has beach bungalows. Or, the Mana Lagoon backpacker hostel. There are also many other cool things to do while you are there, and if you are into surfing then the world-famous Cloudbreak is only another 45-minute boat ride away.
Mana Island - Fiji
Things to know and when to go
Trade Winds are from May – September (Fiji Winter) and light winds from December – March/April (Fiji summer)
For no wind days, the good thing is there are many reef breaks to go surfing (reachable by a quick boat trip from local providers on the Island).
There is no internet on the island (circa 2017) so pack a book for non-windy days if you are not into other surfing activities.
Namotu Island is near Mana and is another Island famous kitesurfing holiday destination. Although we have not been there (yet) it’s more luxurious and exclusive with only 6 bungalows in the resort. Check Kitesurfing trips by Ben Wilson
Pros
Complete isolation and almost crowd-free kiteboarding (but not crowd free surfing - as many surfers go there).
Many coral reefs to visit, dive, snorkel or surf on non-windy days.
There is a beach for every wind direction.
Kite rental is available on the island.
Cons
The wind is not 100% guaranteed.
No internet (in 2017)
Very basic shop for basic supplies, means you have to rely on restaurants and the resort for food.
A Kitesurfing Holiday in Africa… Really?
I visited Zanzibar in 2015 on a safari (not a kite safari) and it was only by chance that I discovered a kiteboarding school. So, in reality, this wasn’t a planned kitesurfing holiday yet I still managed to get on the water! Zanzibar is an island off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa.
I had no equipment with me being on an African safari tour but the school had the latest Cabrinha Switchblade kites and they had beach boys to help me launch and land. Then, I was given an indication of some obstacles (bommies) in the water, but the reality with the water being so crystal clear and turquoise blue, you could see any obstacles immediately, and in high tide, they were at least 1 meter underwater. I absolutely loved kitesurfing this bay, it was just myself and one other person, absolute perfection!
Zanzibar - Tanzania
When to go and things to know
Zanzibar is a 1-hour ferry from Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania
Best to visit whilst on an organised tour of Africa
Best wind between mid-June until mid-October and mid-December until mid-March.
Pros
Beautiful water and beautiful beaches
No crowds
School/Rental https://www.kitecentrezanzibar.com/
Cons
Hard to get to unless you are on a tour.
Personal safety and security concerns (other guests were robbed whilst sleeping)
Kitesurfing Kenya
UPDATE! Since writing this excerpt, I met another fellow kitesurfer who regularly visits Kenya for kitesurfing. Apparently, this has become quite popular as a kitesurfing holiday destination among Europeans and we hope to visit someday soon.
Kitesurfing Holidays in Germany
When I first visited Germany I had no idea that the kiteboarding scene was as big as it is. Especially, I did not consider Germany to be a destination for a kitesurfing holiday. Naturally, being from Australia and surrounded by the sun and the sea, I naively thought my chances to kiteboard in Germany would be limited, I was very mistaken. The wind in the north is strong and constant. Firstly, places like Kiel, büsum, and Laboe were awesome places to go kiting in Germany, but not my first choice for a holiday destination.
Then, we discovered St Peter Ording! Wow, this open stretch of beach is vast, goes for 30+ kilometers, and there is so much room! Importantly, the wind is excellent! No wonder the World Kitesurf Cup was held here for 5 years from 2010-2015.
However, now the Kitesurf World cup is held on Fehmarn Island which is reachable by car. We haven’t been yet, but this is on the bucket list!
St. Peter Ording - Germany
When to and things to know
The best wind conditions are from March to June and from September to October. In the summer months, it can be quite still.
Wind direction: North, south, and west. Basically any condition! I have even seen jet skis towing people in when the wind was offshore.
Pros
There is loads of space in St Peter Ording, more than other spots I have been to in Germany.
There are many kite-surfing schools to choose from to learn, buy or rent equipment.
You can drive on the beach! Easy access even for 2WD
Cons
The wind is often accompanied by rain and cloud.
Unfortunately, you need a kite license to hire equipment in Germany (this was my experience anyway).
Cold! You need still need a steamer in summer.
A Kitesurfing Holiday in Egypt is a must!
The Red Sea is a kitesurfers paradise, the wind is strong and reliable, and there are kilometers of crystal clear blue water. Not only this, you are in one of the most fascinating countries in the world with its alluring ancient history! (read our Luxor by bicycle blog).
We found the people to be super friendly and it is really really affordable. Our favourite place to stay for kitesurfing was in El Gouna. There is a wash of kitesurfing schools stretching all the way from Hurghada to El Gouna.
If you get the chance, you should most definitely go on a kite safari. This was hands down the ultimate kitesurfing holiday. My wife booked this trip for me as a birthday present and I have been raving about it ever since. Essentially, seven days on a luxury boat, out on the virgin Red Sea islands (away from the crowds). Three meals a day (3-course meals mind you!) and so much wind that my body was aching from non-stop kiting from sunrise to sunset. Absolutely epic! I can’t recommend this enough and if you make the journey over to Hurghada do yourself a favour and get in contact with Mosty, the local kite safari guide from Yallah Sport (if you mention JUSTGO you will get a sweet little discount)
The Red Sea - Egypt
When to go and things to know...
El Gouna has become the main kitesurfing destination for Egypt. There are many kite schools/beach clubs to choose from and all of them require you to pay to use the beach and sign a waiver before you go on the water (no matter what your experience).
Nearly all beaches in Hurghada are private and/or attached to a resort. Therefore, it’s best to go to a kite school and pay to use their beach ($10 or so)
Pros
Sunshine all year round.
Great wind from March to November.
Crystal clear warm water.
Very affordable accommodation, food, and drink.
Check out our Food guide to Egypt
Cons
There are no free public beaches to kite from (with the exception of the beach at PlayKite kite school – say hi to Alex! He is very helpful)
The hustle in Hurghada can be annoying (El Gouna not so much).
Kitesurfing Holidays in Vietnam
This would have to be the world’s mecca for kitesurfing holidays, with over 300 windy days per year it is easy to see why most of the kitesurfing world flock here at least once to experience the Vietnamese trade winds. This beach stretches over 30+ kilometers and there are an absolute plethora of kite schools to choose from. The accommodation is cheap, the food is amazing, the beer is cold, what’s there not to love!
There are so many kitesurfing schools to choose from, that it’s nearly an overload. Also, there are so many accommodation choices its not funny! Personally, I preferred to have my own beachfront accommodation so I could have my gear set up and ready to go whenever I pleased. That’s how a kite-surfing holiday should be! Another popular spot to stay is Source Kiteboarding Lodge with the best sunset spot in Mui Ne! (Just make sure you have a scooter to get around as it is not beachfront access).
Mui Ne - Vietnam
When to go and things to know…
The wind is almost all year round but the peak season is between December and February
You can store your equipment at any of the schools for around $5 per day and this includes the beach boys who will pump up/set up and pack up your kite (once you make friends)
There are two kiteboarding beaches. The main beach in Mui Ne/Ham Tien which suited for flat water riding (although still quite choppy) and Malibu beach suited for wave riding.
Pros
Consistent strong trade winds that start in the morning all the way to sunset.
Awesome, cheap food and beer.
Beachfront accommodation right where all the schools are
Many kite schools to choose from for rentals or lesson
Cons
Crowds. I’ve never seen so many kites on the water in my life.
Chop. With strong wind comes big choppy waves. Although, fun to use as big kickers!
Water obstacles such as boats and fishing nets.
Kitesurfing Holidays in Portugal
Portugal is an amazing place for a kitesurfing holiday, which a few caveats. The best experience would be a self-driven road trip, which means having your own equipment. This would be one truly unforgettable holiday if you are able to score a van and bring all your equipment as well. The coastline of Portugal is more famous for its big wave surfing, dramatic coastline, and laid-back lifestyle, which sounds like a wave rider/kite surfer’s dream. There are many stops to kitesurf. Cabedelo, Esposende, Obidos, Peniche to name a few.
IF you get the windy season in summer you can make your way down the coastline from north to south. The Algarve is an amazing place to stay and and the city Lagos is quite hip and cool! During my first time in Portugal (September 2019), there were only 2 windy days out of 14. Although I did see many foil riders on the light wind days, I had to wait for the wind to develop above 15 knots before it was my turn. Then, I made my way to the lagoon in Lagos and had an epic session!
UPDATE! Since returning to Portugal in 2022 we DID end up doing that road trip and we DID pack our own equipment. I got an epic kite session at Ericeira, with big swell, strong wind, and the most delicious Pasta Del Nata’s in all of Portugal. This just might be the place we decide to relocate to in the future!
Lagos – The flat water Lagoon
When to go and things to know…
The windy season (known as Nordata) is during the summer. You will find strong northern thermal winds.
There is both a protected lagoon which is great for flat water and beginners, and outside of the lagoon is the open beach for wave riding.
TAP – The Portuguese airline was truly one of the better airline experiences I have had whilst in Europe (we all know how painful Easyjet and Ryanair can be)
Pros
Many kitesurf schools in Lagos for lessons and rentals
Many surf beaches, for surfing and kitesurfing
Some of the best weather in Europe!
The Portuguese people and the culture is amazing
Cons
Crowds – The lagoon was very crowded. The popular surf beaches were also crowded. At least where I visited.
European licensing system – Many schools won’t rent to you without a license (perhaps a German run school – IDK?). For example, in Lagos, a school wanted to charge me (an advanced rider) for lessons (both theory and on-water) before granting me a license to rent equipment from them. No thanks! Big thanks to Felipe at Lagos Kite Club for renting kite equipment to me without the need for a license.
Kitesurfing Holiday in Italy
For a kitesurfing holiday with all the perks, luxury, scenery, history, fame, and fortune, Lake Como was absolutely stunning! The feeling that you are in a 1950’s bond film, the knowledge that the world’s most famous movie stars are living somewhere among it is pretty awesome! This destination is perfect for families as there are many accommodation options, many restaurants, cafes, gelaterias, and parks.
What impressed me the most was kitesurfing on a gigantic freshwater lake! You are completely surrounded by the Italian and Swiss alps. It is quite hard to keep your focus on the water whilst admiring the backdrop that you are among when kite surfing on Lake Como. I was happily smiling all day here. My only regret was not spending more time there!
Lake Como - Italy
Things to know and when to go…
The north of the lake is where the action is. Areas such as Domaso and Colico Piano. There are other locations littered around the lake, but the launching area at Jordan’s Surf & Kitezoo was amazing… Big grassy area, cafe, restaurant, and kite shop. The staff was super friendly to me and I got to demo brand new Core gear which I was super stoked about!
So many more activities to do on the lake. Not just Kitesurfing. So it is a great family destination.
There are thermal winds that do not get foretasted by the wind apps. Apparently, they are known as ‘Venturi’ which is like a wind tunneling effect from the mountains.
Pros
One of the most scenic kitesurfing spots I have ever been to, a perfect Kitesurfing holiday destination.
Freshwater lake. (I really enjoyed that)
Pizza (what more could you wish for after an epic kitesurfing session)
Cons
Transport. You need a car, or you need to stay close to the schools.
I found it to be quite expensive to holiday in Italy
Deep water (which is only a problem for an unsupervised beginner)
Australia – The biggest Kitesurfing Holiday Destination of them all!
Ok, so we may be a little biased when it comes to Australia. After all, it is our home country. This is where we learned to kitesurf so it does not feel like a kitesurfing holiday when we are there. However, after meeting many fellow kitesurfers on our travels and showing them our home locations, clearly, there is something special if you can make the giant journey!
Moreover, Australia is completely surrounded by coastline, and there is no chance in hell you will ever cover it all! Therefore, we will drop but a few epic destinations you should visit if you can. We come from the northern state of Queensland (home of the great barrier reef) where the weather is warmer in winter than a German summer (sorry, had to say it).
Starting from the southern Queensland border, Currumbin Alley on the Gold Coast is a great place to start a kitesurfing road trip in Australia. Here, there is both flatwater and a beach break here. Head north about 45 minutes and you will arrive at Broadwater, another epic flatwater spot (although watch out for boating traffic). The next stop on your road trip is Brisbane. Now, not many people consider Brisbane to be a kitesurfing destination (not even people from the coast know about it). But, Wellington Point on Moreton Bay is a quiet little shallow water bay that works in all wind directions bar direct south. The sunset sessions there are still some of my most memorable sessions! If you are still in Brisbane, head another 45 minutes north to Redcliffe, a little more crowded here but there are loads of space and nice kickers to jump from.
Sunset Session at Wellington Point - Brisbane
Now it’s time to head to the Sunshine Coast, a place we called home for 2 years. For flat water riding, you can head to the river mouth at Caloundra, OR catch a northerly wind at the Noosa River mouth (Noosa national park is a world heritage surf destination). For the most epic downwinder in waves (both in northerly or southerly winds), you have about a 14km stretch of beach between Coolum beach and Sunshine beach.
Now, if you have 4×4 transportation you can get the real Australian experience and head to Double Island Point, Rainbow Beach and/or Fraser island. If not, keep heading north towards Seventeen Seventy (Agnes Waters). Here, you may need to relax and wait for the wind to come but its a magical spot and famous for being the second landing during Australia’s colonial discovery.
Last on this road trip (but not least) is Yeppoon. More recently famous for the man-made surf lakes, it boasts some pristine kitesurfing coastline and some even more exclusive kitesurfing islands nearby (check out Great Kepple Island). If you manage to get this far, you have covered upwards of 800kms of the Australian coastline which is 1/42 of the entire coastline of Australia. So, I will stop here.
Great Kepple Island - Waiting for the wind to arrive
When to go and things to know…
Kitesurfing in Australia is possible all year round. Although, in winter there will be somewhat less wind (at least in Queensland). With such a huge continent and coastline there many weather systems. Western Australia is a favourite among many kiters, however, we are yet to cross the Nullarbor to discover this kitesurfing paradise.
In South East Queensland (the aforementioned road trip) the best time to kitesurf is spring into summer (October to March). Generally speaking, the first few months of spring we get lovely northerly winds, that are warm and constant. As the summer progresses, the northerlies are less frequent and the southerly winds appear. Whilst it is still warm (wetsuit not needed) these colder winds are more powerful and gusty than the friendly northerlies.
Either way, you will find a condition that is right for your preferred riding style.
Pros
Wetsuits not needed in the summer season in Queensland (wetsuit top in the southerlies is comfortable).
Loads of pristine coastline to explore.
Not too crowded (compared with the Northern hemisphere locations).
Surf style and/or downwind paradise.
Cons
Expensive.
Blistering sun (the sun is more intense in Australia than anywhere else, believe me).
You will need a vehicle to get around.
This kitesurfing bucket list is by no means complete. If you feel like something is missing and want to contribute, we would certainly love to hear about it. We are always looking for new destinations to kite! Next on our list is the Phillipines!
