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Kitesurfing is one of the most unique sports on earth, with the ability to enjoy it from just about anywhere water is found.
Choosing the perfect kitesurfing location can be a lot more challenging than you think when you realize just how spoilt for choice we are in terms of the variety of oceans and lakes across the globe.
So, where are the best kitesurfing locations around the world?
We’ve found the top contenders with many right here in our own country including New Jersey and Hawaii as well as those abroad in Aruba and the Dominican Republic, in one easy to read list for you to check out.
With our help, you’ll be able to travel the globe and enjoy all of the most awesome kitesurfing locations for yourself and tick them off your bucket list.
Check out our picks for the best kitesurfing locations around the world, in no particular order, and why they deserve a place on our list.
Kitesurfing in Cancun
Cancun might be the first place you think of when you have Spring Break in mind, but it’s also a hotspot for kitesurfing.
Located in Mexico, Cancun offers all types of waters depending on how you like to surf.
There are flat waters at Playa Nicuz and Isla Blanca to experiment with your freestyle moves or something more wavy and intense in locations like Playa Delfines.
Because the weather is always on point in Cancun there’s no bad time to visit.
For the windy season enthusiasts, you’ll want to travel from November to June at which time they remain pretty consistent.
From November to April, you’ll get stronger winds coming from the north which makes it ideal or kitesurfing, but remember to pack a suit because it can get pretty cool in the water.
Kitesurfing in Playa Del Carmen
Another great offering from Mexico comes from Playa Del Carmen, a popular holiday destination and also a wonderful place for kite surfing.
The beaches of Playa Del Carmen are warm and sunny, and it’s right in the middle of the Riviera Maya which has a load of aquatic and coastal activities to enjoy.
One of the most popular though is kitesurfing and kiteboarding, and one look at the long and sandy beaches will show you exactly why.
If you’re going exclusively for kitesurfing, the best time to visit is from October through to the start of June.
This is known as their high wind season which will give you the most power of around 13 to 22 knots to enjoy.
At other times the wind can be too North facing which isn’t always ideal, so these are the definite dates you should be visiting.
If you’re planning to go with family, there are loads of other water activities for everyone, or you could make it an exclusive kitesurfing Playa Del Carmen vacation and not be disappointed.
Playa Del Carmen is a tourist hotspot and there’s also plenty of accommodation options, local shopping, and fine dining.
Kitesurfing in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is home to one of the most famous water sports locations in the world, the Caribbean.
If you’re someone who wants to mix a relaxing island holiday with high-intensity thrills of kitesurfing this is a must-visit.
The best place for kitesurfing Dominican Republic is Cabarate, which lies on the north coast.
The water is pretty much always warm and the winds are consistent, making for a great time on the water.
However, if you want the best wind conditions you should travel between April and August.
All skill levels are welcome in the Dominican Republic so even if you’re traveling with family or others who haven’t done as much surfing as you, everyone will still get a turn on the water.
If you want to brush up on your skills there are also plenty of schools around for learning, otherwise you can take things at your own pace on one of their many warm, sandy beaches.
Kitesurfing in Florida
If you’re someone who thrives on the excitement of intense kitesurfing conditions, you’ll want to check out Florida.
There are loads of places you can test the waters, with the most popular being Tampa.
Tampa’s boarding season is from November to April and you’ll find consistent winds of around 20-30 knots here.
There are so many options of beaches to choose from depending on whether you want flat, choppy or wavy conditions, and there are kitesurfing Florida schools popping up all over the place.
Beginners are experts alike are welcome here and there are so many great places to surf, including Treasure Island, Cocoa Beach, and multiple options in Miami.
The weather and waters are reasonably warm compared to the rest of the country but when the north winds pick up you’ll want to wear a suit.
Kitesurfing in Hawaii
When it comes to the place with the most authentic surfing way of life, you can’t go past Hawaii.
It seems as if this place was made specifically with kitesurfing in mind, and for that reason, it’s hugely popular with all water sports enthusiasts.
The most popular spots to surf and kite are Maui and Oahu, but because of tourism, these tend to be overcrowded.
Luckily, there are also loads of less common places you can check out if you’re willing to go exploring a little further.
Think outside of the box and explore volcanoes and mountains to find a relatively untouched spot to kitesurf, and you won’t be disappointed.
Traveling to Hawaii for kiting specifically should be done from June to August.
If you want to travel outside of those times you could head to Maui from March to October.
The unique shape of this island makes it perfect for kiting in the regular offseason, so there’s almost always a good time to check out kitesurfing Hawaii.
Kitesurfing in Costa Rica
This Central American country is tropical and rugged, with waters that are perfect for kiting.
Costa Rica has a great selection of places to kitesurf and plenty of other great things to explore like local food, exciting wildlife, and other adventurous activities to try.
The setting in Costa Rica is ideal for kiting and surfing, so you’ll get consistent and strong winds and varying water conditions depending on where and when you go.
Beginners will like the calmer waters and seasoned professions will appreciate the choppier conditions.
The West Coast is the top pick for all kiters because of its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, but if you’re able to spend some time exploring you could find some great locations on the eastern side as well.
The best time for kitesurfing Costa Rica is from November to May, with December to March being the most popular.
Daily knots of 18-23 can be found at this time and in some areas you’ll get ideal stronger winds of around 25 knots.
The weather and water are both so warm that you won’t even need a suit for protection, but you could wear something light for the wind chill if you’d prefer to.
Thanks to this long season and perfect conditions, this a must-visit for kiters of all skill levels.
Kitesurfing in Panama
The small but idyllic country of Panama is a kitesurfer’s dream come true, although it might not be the first location that comes to mind when you’re planning a trip on the water.
The all day consistent winds and beautiful temperatures and surroundings mean this should be on your list though, especially if you’re after more of a challenge.
Panama is gaining popularity as a hotspot for water sports and as such there are plenty of schools that cater to all skill levels of kite surfers and boarders.
As a country, Panama is largely untouched and not as bustling in terms of tourism, so it would suit those after a quieter solo experience.
The best conditions for kiting at the popular Punta Chame are December to April, so if you want to get out of the cold where you live this is the answer you’ve been looking for.
San Blas Islands should be visited from December to May as well, with accompanying islands and crystal clear water to enjoy at all times.
Temperatures are warm and there’s no need for a wetsuit even when the wind picks up, so if you want a tropical kiting experience then Panama should be it.
Kitesurfing in Thailand
To experience some of the most pristine waters you’ve ever seen, you should consider kitesurfing Thailand.
There are virtually hundreds of islands and beaches to check out, all offering warm water and consistent wind with the bonus of two wind seasons.
One major advantage of visiting Thailand for kitesurfing is that the sport is still relatively new so you won’t find the waters crowded with others trying to kite.
Some great spots in Thailand for kiting with winds from January to May averaging 10 to 20 knots.
This time of year is perfect for expert riders who know how to handle the waves, though you can find some quieter spots still.
The second wind season lasts from July until October and is a little less intense, however there are extra rainstorms during this period and conditions can get a little choppy.
Mid October to Mid December sees a lot of rain and very little wind, so don’t plan a trip to Thailand unless it’s to relax.
The best way to see Thailand for kitesurfing is by taking local tours to the neighboring islands and beaches.
There are a few kitesurfing schools and companies that operate there, but it’s generally better to bring your own gear and explore for yourself if you want to see the best that this country has to offer.
Kitesurfing in New Jersey
Kitesurfing New Jersey might not be the first thing that pops into mind when looking for a new spot to try out your favorite sport, but it’s a fan favorite.
There are a number of kiting schools in Jersey and it’s popular with weekend visitors from New York and neighboring states, as well as locals.
The best places to kitesurf in New Jersey include the aptly named Kite Island which SW, S, and SE wind being the favorites.
Sandy Hook’s best wind is NW, and this bayside setting is perfect for people who prefer a flatwater experience.
Long Beach Island ocean side kiting is also popular for those looking to ride waves, but be prepared to share the water with plenty of other visitors.
There are plenty of different conditions to kite in, but the best time to visit is during the warmer summer months.
While you can surf during winter, you’ll need adequate protection with a long wetsuit otherwise you’ll fall prey to the wind chill.
Beginners and experts will find somewhere in NJ to suit their kiting level of experience and there are several schools and classes available to improve your skills.
Kitesurfing in Aruba
Another popular Caribbean destination is Aruba, located close to Venezuela.
Aruba kitesurfing is ideal because you can enjoy it virtually all year long, with the best wind season lasting from December to September.
It can be pricey to visit but having this longer season available means you can keep your eyes out for a deal on local accommodation.
Although the setting is beautiful in Aruba, this is only recommended for kiters who know what they’re doing.
Winds tend to be gusty and it’s not ideal for people who are just starting out.
This South Caribbean destination used to be a popular place for water sports with the family but it’s since become a hotspot for thrill-seekers and seasoned professionals who can handle the sometimes choppy conditions.
Kitesurfing in San Francisco
If you had to imagine the ideal kitesurfing destination in your head, it would probably look something like the San Francisco Bay in California.
Long known as a great spot for kitesurfing and other water sports, this is somewhere that every kiter should visit.
Kitesurfing San Francisco gives you plenty of options, whether you stay right in the bay or venture out a little further.
Stinson Beach, San Mateo, and Crissy Field are all popular spots, but you should be prepared to share the water when the ideal conditions are present.
Conditions in these areas range from strong and unpredictable to calm and quiet, so depending on your preference and ability you?ll be able to find the perfect spot.
Schools and classes are plentiful here, so even if you’re traveling with family members who aren’t as experienced, there’ll be something for everyone.
San Francisco is proof that you don’t have to leave the country for the perfect kiting destination, and the best season to do it in is March through October when the winds are solid and the weather isn’t too cold.
Related Questions
One of the best things about kitesurfing is the ability to take your gear anywhere to enjoy it.
However, traveling to a foreign country or new location isn’t always so straightforward.
If you’re thinking of traveling the globe to kitesurf here are some questions you might want answering first.
Can I Take Kitesurfing Gear on a Plane?
Depending on the carrier, you should be able to take your kitesurfing gear with you on the plane, but you should always check the specific guidelines.
Some airlines have rules against traveling with a board or other bulky items.
Smaller items, like your harness, can be packed into the carry on luggage so you can keep it close by.
If you only want to travel light, you can easily hire the other equipment to suit your harness.
Do I Need to Wear a Wetsuit for Kitesurfing?
A wetsuit is an optional piece of equipment but one that many kiters choose to equip.
A wetsuit can be helpful against the elements like cold winds or UV rays from the sun, but some might feel more comfortable without one.
Surfing in warmer conditions may be more comfortable without too much coverage, so you might opt for a short wetsuit.
Are There Rules to Follow on International Waters?
If you’re planning on traveling overseas to kitesurf, be sure to read and understand the guidelines in place for water sports and activities relevant to that country.
Like the US Coastguard, other countries may also have regulations about safe and legal water activity, and it should be adhered to at all times.
