Guide to the best beginner kitesurf spots
New to kitesurfing? Explore the top beginner-friendly kitesurf spots worldwide, perfect for learning and progression. These destinations are known for their gentle winds, shallow waters, and ideal conditions for beginners.
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Beginner Destinations
6 Beginner Spots
El Gouna, Egypt
March to June, September to November
6 Beginner Spots
Tarifa, Spain
April to October
4 Beginner Spots
Le Morne, Mauritius
April to November
4 Beginner Spots
Fuerteventura, Spain
May to September
2 Beginner Spots
Boracay, Philippines
November to March
2 Beginner Spots
Dahab, Egypt
May to October
2 Beginner Spots
Mũi Né, Vietnam
November to March
6 Beginner Spots
Phuket, Thailand
November to March
3 Beginner Spots
Hua Hin, Thailand
February to May
3 Beginner Spots
Watamu, Kenya
June to August, December to March
2 Beginner Spots
Lamu, Kenya
June to August, December to March
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2 Beginner Spots
Sainte-Anne, Guadeloupe
December to June
2 Beginner Spots
Diani, Kenya
June to August, December to March
1 Beginner Spot
Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka
May to October, December to February
1 Beginner Spot
Praia Do Bilene, Mozambique
September to March
1 Beginner Spot
Cuyo Island, Philippines
November to March
5 Beginner Spots
Koh Samui, Thailand
December to March
5 Beginner Spots
Palawan, Philippines
November to March
4 Beginner Spots
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
November to March
3 Beginner Spots
Koh Phangan, Thailand
December to March
3 Beginner Spots
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
November to March
2 Beginner Spots
Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates
November to March
2 Beginner Spots
Phan Rang, Vietnam
November to March
1 Beginner Spot
Morne à l'Eau, Guadeloupe
December to June
1 Beginner Spot
Malindi, Kenya
June to August, December to March
1 Beginner Spot
Walvis Bay, Namibia
September to March
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1 Beginner Spot
San Pere Pescador, Spain
June to September
1 Beginner Spot
Bulalacao, Philippines
November to March
1 Beginner Spot
Siargao, Philippines
November to March
1 Beginner Spot
Pattaya, Thailand
November to March
4 Beginner Spots
Doha, Qatar
November to July
3 Beginner Spots
Barcelona, Spain
September to April
2 Beginner Spots
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
February to November
2 Beginner Spots
Anse la Raie, Mauritius
April to November
1 Beginner Spot
Dakhla, Morocco
April to September
1 Beginner Spot
Essaouira, Morocco
April to September
4 Beginner Spots
Ras Sudr, Egypt
May to October
1 Beginner Spot
Tenerife, Spain
May to October
1 Beginner Spot
Pemba, Mozambique
September to March
1 Beginner Spot
Vilankulos, Mozambique
September to March
Top beginner kitesurfing spots: where to start your kite adventure
Hey kite enthusiasts! Ready to dive into the world of kitesurfing? Choosing the right spot to learn can make or break your experience. Let's explore some of the best beginner-friendly kitesurfing locations that offer more than just killer winds.
What makes a spot beginner-friendly?
Before we jump into the spots, let's break down what makes a location perfect for newbies:
Wind conditions
The sweet spot for learning is between 14-20 knots. Side-shore or side-on-shore winds are ideal, offering stable and manageable conditions. These wind directions are also safer, as they'll always bring you back to shore if you fall.
Water conditions
Flat water can make the initial stages easier, allowing you to focus on kite control and body dragging. However, a mix of flat water and small waves can accelerate your skill development by teaching you to handle more challenging conditions.
A mix of shallow and deep water is ideal. Shallow areas provide a sense of security for the very beginning, while deeper sections are crucial for practicing body dragging and board recovery as you progress.
Safety
Avoid spots with hazards like cliffs, reefs, or shallow areas. Be aware of local weather patterns and tidal currents. Steer clear of crowded areas and shore structures like piers and jetties, which can be dangerous for beginners.
Kite schools
Quality instruction is key. Look for spots with experienced instructors who prioritize safety and offer patient, effective teaching. Ensure the courses cover essential skills and provide beginner-friendly equipment.
Remember, the best spot for you will depend on your individual comfort level and learning style. Now, let's check out some top beginner-friendly locations!
More kitesurfing spots by category
If you haven't found what you're looking for, explore all the kitesurfing spots on Surfwaze, or check out one of our other category guides.
Europe's best beginner kitesurfing spots
Óbidos Lagoon, Portugal 🇵🇹
Located just 1.5 hours north of Lisbon, Óbidos Lagoon is a beginner's paradise. Its shallow, flat waters and gentle, consistent winds create a safe and supportive environment for learning. The best time to visit is from April to October when conditions are optimal. For top-notch instruction, check out Passaro Kitesurf, known for their excellent beginner programs.
Leucate, France 🇫🇷
Nestled on the French Mediterranean coast, Leucate is famous for its steady winds and mild weather. The calm waters and reliable winds ensure a great learning experience year-round, with the best conditions from April to October. Kiteschool Leucate comes highly recommended for their beginner-friendly approach and experienced instructors.
Lo Stagnone, Italy 🇮🇹
Lo Stagnone Lagoon, near Marsala in Sicily, is a flat-water paradise with moderate winds - perfect for beginners. The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warmest and winds are most consistent. Kitelab offers excellent courses tailored specifically for novice kitesurfers, helping you build a solid foundation in this beautiful setting.
Tarifa, Spain 🇪🇸
Situated at the southern tip of Spain, Tarifa is known as Europe's kitesurfing capital. It offers consistent winds and a vibrant kiting scene. While it's best suited for those with some prior experience, it still provides excellent conditions for beginners during the windier months from July to October. The area is dotted with local schools offering quality instruction, making it a great place to start your kitesurfing journey while immersing yourself in the sport's culture.
San Pere Pescador, Spain 🇪🇸
San Pere Pescador, located in Catalonia, Spain, boasts a wide beach and flat waters that are perfect for beginners. The area benefits from consistent winds and a friendly kitesurfing community. The best time to visit is from May to September when conditions are ideal. Local kitesurfing schools provide quality instruction for newcomers, and the beautiful Costa Brava coastline offers plenty to explore when you're not on the water.
Asia's beginner kitesurfing hotspots
Mui Ne, Vietnam 🇻🇳
This tiny coastal town in Vietnam offers rock-free waters and beautiful weather, making it a popular choice for beginners and professionals alike. The best time to visit is from November to March. Despite the occasional wave breaking on the shore and fishing nets, Mui Ne's vibrant kitesurfing atmosphere and numerous restaurants and pubs make it a must-visit. The consistent winds and warm water create an ideal learning environment.
Boracay, Philippines 🇵🇭
Boracay is renowned for its warm turquoise waters and reliable winds, perfect for kitesurfing. Although it can be crowded during high season and beach erosion limits landing space, the place is ideal for intermediate surfers and beginners who can enroll in numerous kiting schools. The best time to visit is from November to March. The island's stunning beauty and vibrant nightlife add to the overall experience.
Kalpitiya Lagoon, Sri Lanka 🇱🇰
A major kiting hub in Sri Lanka, Kalpitiya Lagoon boasts crystal-clear, shallow waters and consistent winds, perfect for beginners. The best time to visit is from May to September and December to March. While summer winds can be gusty, the spot offers flat, shallow water and opportunities for day kite trips to Dream Spot and Vella Island. The area's unspoiled nature and friendly locals make it a unique destination for kitesurfers.
Lombok, Indonesia 🇮🇩
Lombok, an emerging kiting destination alongside Bali, offers serene nature and reliable winds with an average speed of 15-20 knots. Best visited from May to August, the spot caters to all experience levels. Though facilities are sparse and fishing nets can be a nuisance, the authenticity of Lombok's kitesurfing experience is unmatched. The island's pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for learning.
Africa's top spots for beginner kitesurfers
El Gouna, Egypt 🇪🇬
El Gouna, located on the Red Sea coast, offers perfect conditions for beginners with its shallow lagoons and consistent winds. The best time to visit is from March to November. The area is known for its excellent kitesurfing schools and vibrant atmosphere, making it a great place to learn and enjoy kitesurfing. The resort town also offers plenty of amenities and activities for when you're not on the water.
Essaouira, Morocco 🇲🇦
Essaouira, on Morocco's Atlantic coast, is renowned for its reliable winds and wide beaches, making it an excellent spot for beginners. The best time to visit is from April to November. The city also boasts a rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience. The mix of traditional Moroccan culture and water sports creates a unique and unforgettable kitesurfing destination.
Zanzibar, Tanzania 🇹🇿
Zanzibar, with its warm, shallow waters and steady winds, provides an excellent environment for beginner kitesurfers. The best time to visit is from June to September and December to February. While the island's beauty and local culture enhance the experience, some spots can be crowded during peak season. The opportunity to combine kitesurfing with exploring this exotic island makes Zanzibar a top choice for many.
Watamu, Kenya 🇰🇪
Watamu, a coastal town in Kenya, offers crystal-clear waters and consistent winds, making it a fantastic spot for beginners. The best time to visit is from June to September and December to March. The area is also known for its beautiful beaches and rich marine life, though facilities may be limited compared to more developed spots. The chance to kitesurf in such an unspoiled environment makes Watamu a hidden gem for adventurous beginners.
Wrap-Up
There you have it, kite buddies! These spots offer the perfect mix of ideal learning conditions, quality schools, and awesome local vibes. Whether you're just starting or looking to level up, these locations have got you covered. Remember, the key to progressing is finding a spot that matches your skill level and makes you stoked to get out on the water.
So, where are you heading to start your kitesurfing adventure?