Kitesurfing in South Africa - A Complete Guide
South Africa is one of the best places in the world for kitesurfing, with a wide variety of spots that offer great conditions for both beginners and advanced riders. Whether you're looking for flat water or waves, there's a spot in South Africa that's perfect for you.
Wind Conditions in South Africa
South Africa has a range of wind conditions that make it an ideal destination for kitesurfers of all levels. The country's location on the southern tip of Africa means that it is exposed to a variety of wind directions, ranging from strong relatively consistent South-Easterly winds in Cape Town to the not so consistent winds at the southeastern side of South Africa, followed by the more windy KwaZulu-Natal area. Most of time the wind is side-shore.
The South-Easterly wind in Cape Town is stongest from November to March and is ideal for kitesurfers looking for high-speed riding and big waves. The wind speed ranges from 15 to 40 knots, making it perfect for experienced kitesurfers. The West Coast spots experiences the same South-Easterly wind as Cape Town.
In the Garden Route, which is located along the southeastern coast of South Africa, the wind conditions can vary depending on the time of year. The prevailing winds are South-Westerly and can range from 15 to 25 knots. Expect around 3 kitable days per week in December to February and 1-2 kiteable days from March to November. Comparable windconditions moving further east to the Eastern Cape.
In KwaZulu-Natal, which is located on the eastern coast of South Africa and borders the Indian Ocean, the wind conditions are generally reliable year-round at spots like LA Mercy Lagoon. The prevailing winds are North-Easterly & South-Westerly which can range from 15 to 35 knots, and provides excellent kitesurfing conditions for riders of all levels.
Kitesurfing Spots in South Africa
Langebaan
Langebaan is a picturesque seaside town on the West Coast of South Africa that's famous for its flat, shallow waters and consistent winds. The spot has beginner-friendly conditions that are perfect for first-timers. Langebaan is also a great spot for freestyle riders, with plenty of space to throw down some big tricks.
November - March FlatwaterBloubergstrand
Bloubergstrand is a coastal suburb of Cape Town and is famous for its stunning views of Table Mountain. Bloubergstrand is especially popular with freestyle riders, with plenty of space to throw down some big tricks. The wind can be quite gusty at times, so it's best suited for experienced kitesurfers.
November - March Little waves - Medium wavesBig Bay
Big Bay is located just north of Bloubergstrand and is another great intermediate kitesurfing spot in Cape Town. Used by surfers in morning and by kitesurfers in the late afternoon. The spot has some rocks to be aware of, and it's the only place with a restaurant boulevard.
November - March Little waves - Medium wavesDolphin Beach
Dolphin Beach is a popular kitesurfing spot located in the suburb of Table View, just north of Cape Town. It's a great spot for intermediate and advanced riders, with strong winds and some decent waves.
November - March Little waves - Medium wavesHermanus Lagoon
Hermanus Lagoon is a shallow saltwater lagoon located in the town of Hermanus on the south coast of South Africa. It's a great spot for beginners and intermediate riders, with calm, flat water and predictable winds. This spot is often visited by pro riders.
October - March FlatwaterMisty Cliffs
Misty Cliffs is a picturesque kitesurfing spot located in Cape Town. Known for its stunning scenery and challenging kitesurfing conditions, Misty Cliffs offers experienced riders a chance to tackle big waves and strong winds while enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
November - March Medium Waves - Huge WavesPlatboom Beach
Platboom Beach is a secluded kitesurfing destination located within the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve in Cape Town. With its pristine white sand beach and consistent South-Easterly wind, Platboom offers a serene and unforgettable kitesurfing experience. This spot is perfect for experienced kitesurfers who are looking for a challenge.
November - March Medium WavesStrand
Strand is a beach town located on the east coast of South Africa, about an hour's drive from Cape Town. It's a great spot, with strong winds and some decent waves.
November - March Little waves - Medium WavesKabeljous Lagoon, Jeffreys Bay
Kabeljous is located in the coastal town of Jeffreys Bay. Known for its lagoon with long stretches of flat water. There is an active kitecommunity, however don't expect crowd like cape town spots and there is generally 1 kiteable day per week.
December - March FlatwaterNahoon Beach
Nahoon Beach is a popular kitesurfing spot located in the Eastern Cape. Known for its consistent South-Easterly winds and reliable waves, Nahoon Beach is a favorite among experienced kitesurfers looking for a challenge.
October - March Choppy - Little wavesUmhlanga Beach
Umhlanga Beach is a popular kitesurfing spot located north of Durban in the KwaZulu-Natal region of South Africa. With consistent North-Easterly and South-Westerly winds and waves. Plus, the stunning views of the Indian Ocean and nearby lighthouse make for a beautiful backdrop to a day on the water.
September - March Little waves - Medium wavesLA Mercy Lagoon
Located on the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal, LA Mercy Lagoon is a beautiful kitesurfing spot that offers a unique riding experience. With flat, shallow water and consistent North-Easterly and South-Westerly winds, this spot is ideal for beginner and intermediate riders looking to improve their skills.
January - December FlatwaterIn conclusion, South Africa is a world-class kitesurfing destination with a wide variety of spots that offer great conditions for riders of all levels. Whether you're looking for flat water or waves, you'll find it in South Africa. So grab your gear and head to one of these amazing kitespots for an unforgettable kitesurfing experience!
Other kitesurf destinations
If you didn't find a good spot, check Morocco and Cape Verde, since they also have great kitespots to kitesurf.