Kitesurfing in Thailand - A Complete Guide
Thailand is a popular destination for kitesurfing, with its warm waters, consistent winds, and beautiful scenery. In this guide, we will explore the wind conditions for kitesurfing in Thailand, and some popular kitesurfing spots.
Wind Conditions in Thailand
The wind conditions in Thailand are generally favorable for kitesurfing, with the dry season from November to April offering the most consistent winds. During this season, the Northeast monsoon prevails, bringing winds that blow from the northeast to the southwest with an average strength of 15-20 knots. In contrast, the rainy season from May to October has the Southwest monsoon prevailing, which brings winds that blow from the southwest to the northeast with an average strength of 10-15 knots. Nonetheless, there are still some great kitesurfing spots in Thailand during the rainy season, and many kitesurfers enjoy the challenge of riding in lighter winds.
Kitesurfing Spots in Thailand
Hua Hin
Located on the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin is a popular kitesurfing destination for both beginners and advanced riders. The spot is the go to kitespot for all Bangkok kite surfers.
November - April Choppy - Medium wavesKoh Samui
Koh Samui is a beautiful island in the Gulf of Thailand with several excellent kitesurfing spots. The best time to go kitesurfing in Koh Samui is from December to February when the wind is at its strongest. Some of the best spots on the island include Nahai Beach and Nathon.
Nahai Beach
Nahai Beach is a kitesurfing spot located on the southern coast of Koh Samui, Thailand in Hua Thanon district. With its shallow waters and consistent winds during the windy season, it is a popular destination for kitesurfers of all levels. The spot is also named Orchid and Shiva.
December - February Flatwater - Little wavesNathon
Nathon is a kitesurfing spot located on the west coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. It has shallow, mostly flatwater and works with the lighter West winds from from April to October, with best winds from June to September.
June - September FlatwaterPhuket
Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, and it's also a great place to go kitesurfing. There are several kitesurfing spots around the island, including Rawai Beach and Nai Yang Beach.
Rawai Beach
Rawai Beach is a kitesurfing spot located in Chalong Bay on the southern coast of Phuket, Thailand. The area offers shallow flatwater lagoon, making it suitable for both beginners or freestyle riders. Best to ride here in northeast monsoon months, expect 15-25 knots.
December - February FlatwaterNai Yang Beach
Nai Yang Beach is a kitesurfing spot located on the northwest coast of Phuket, next to Phuket Airport. It is known for its shallow waters (500m) followed by deeper water making it a great spot for foiling and beginners. Best to ride here in southwest monsoon months, expect 12-25 knots.
June - September Flatwater - Medium wavesPattaya
Pattaya is a coastal city in Thailand located on the eastern Gulf of Thailand. It is known for its lively atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and long sandy beaches. Pattaya offers a variety of activities, including kitesurfing. Jomtien Beach is one of the best spots for kitesurfing in Pattaya, with flat water and light winds.
Jomtien Beach
Jomtien Beach in Pattaya has a long sandy beach and lighter winds, making it a good destination for beginners and hydrofoil. Expect 15 knots in September and from November to June, 15-20 knots in July & August, October has almost no wind.
November - September Flatwater - ChoppyPak Nam Pran
Pak Nam Pran is a small town located about 30 kilometers south of Hua Hin in Pran Buri District. It's known for its beautiful beaches and excellent kitesurfing conditions. The best time to go kitesurfing in Pak Nam Pran is from November to April (10-20 knots). The consistent Northeast Monsoon wind is present from November to January in mornings, followed by south thermal afternoon winds from February to April. After this period there is offshore South Westerly monsoons through September.
Khao Kalok Beach
Khao Kalok Beach is a kitesurfing spot located in Pak Nam Pran. It is a quiet and secluded beach with flatwater, waves and consistent wind, making it an ideal spot for freestyle. The beach also boasts stunning scenery, with a backdrop of lush mountains.
November - April Flatwater - Small WavesNo matter where you go kitesurfing in Thailand, you're sure to have a great time. Just be sure to check the wind conditions and any local regulations before you head out on the water. Happy kiting!
Nearby countries
If you didn't find a good spot, check Vietnam and Sri Lanka since they also have great kitespots to kitesurf.