Cape Town, situated on the southwestern coast of South Africa, is known to be one of the best destinations in the world for kitesurfing. With strong winds and beautiful beaches, it's a popular spot for both beginner and advanced kiteboarders and lately has become as one the best big air kitesurf destinations.
The kitesurfing season in Cape Town typically runs from November to March. During this time, the southeasterly wind, known locally as the "Cape Doctor", blows regularly and consistently. The wind is typically at its strongest in the afternoon, so it's great as you can plan some other activities in this amazing city during the day and then go kiting.
Wind in Capetown is normally strong but you can also expect days with less wind. A tipical day in Capetown starts with no wind, and it increases during the day, so you can always score a session with a bigger kite size. We anyway always recommend to take all the sizes you have, althought probably you will use from very small to medium kite sizes.. But if you have space on your luggage, get all the sizes you have!
If you go for the first time to Capetown on a kitetrip, your best shot is to look for accommodation in Bloubergstrand. It is the most popular area for kitesurfing in Cape Town, thanks to its strong winds, large beach and stunning views of Table Mountain! There are several hotels, guesthouses and apartments in the area. Not to mention it is the most reliable place to catch wind.
There are several great spots for kitesurfing in Cape Town, each with its own unique features and good for different levels.
This is what it is known as Cape town main kitespot and where you will find most of people and pros riding. Nice and steady winds, waves and stunning views of Table Mountain. Inside on this massively long beach, you can find some different sections or sub-spots like:
Big Bay, very popular back in the day for hosting the new era of the Red Bull King of the Air and also used for beginners and freestyle riders due to some more flat waters and less currents.
Sunset Beach, close to capetown and way less busy than Blouberg offers almost the same conditions as the main spot.
Dolphin Beach, basically is the same spot as Blouberg but more upwind, nice to scape from the crowds.
Langebaan is located about 120 km of Cape Town, or about 1h and a few of roadtrip. It offers flat, shallow waters and is perfect for beginners and freestyle riders. There, you can go directly to town, but dont miss Sharks Bay, superb spot located 10min drive from town where you will find very shallow and turqoise waters. This spot always has a bit less wind than the main spot.
This is a great spot for beginners when swell is not big, with gentle waves and shallow water. If swell comes big, you can have a very nice session on waves, but wind normally is more on-shore than other spots. The beach is relatively wide, allowing plenty of space for kitesurfers to launch and land, and there are several kite schools in the area that offer lessons and equipment rentals.
One of the unique features of Misty Cliffs is the rugged coastline and cliffs that provide a beautiful backdrop for kitesurfing. This is the dream of every big air rider. When it works, it has normally strong winds and very big kickers. Also if the wind is not that strong, it is a great place to have some fun riding waves. This spot is only recommended for experienced riders!
This is a secluded spot with beautiful scenery and good waves. It is a small spot where you will share space with wings and windsurfers, but with the right conditions, it is a dream wave riding spot. Not recommended for beginners.
If you are into wave riding, this is the spot. If you ride upwind, you will find a very nice wave that works all day long. Busy in the mornings with windsurfers but normally empty in the afternoons! It is inside Cape of good hope natural park, so you will need to pay to access!
This spot is located about 300km away from Capetown, relatively unknown with good wind and flat, shallow water. Perfect place for freestyle, big air and beginners.
Capetown and its sorrundings are an amazing area to explore and get lost! Here you have just a small list of things you can combine with an afternoon full of kitesurf or just in no windy days!
• Take a trip to Table Mountain: This iconic landmark is one of Cape Town's most famous attractions and offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape. You can get the lift or even better, make a hike on its many ways to go to the top. If going on summer time, take plenty of water!
• Hike to Lions Head: One of the most iconic hikes, for all levels and stuning views.
• Visit the Waterfront: This bustling harbor area is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and other entertainment options. It's a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
• Surf in Muizenberg: Take some time to go for a nice surf session in this beautiful place!
• Explore the Cape of Good Hope: This stunning nature reserve features beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife, including baboons and ostriches. It is a must when you visit CapeTown. Dont forget to pass by Simons Town to make a visit to penguins!
• Go wine tasting: Cape Town is surrounded by some of South Africa's best wine regions, including Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. A wine tasting tour is a great way to sample the local varietals and learn more about the region's winemaking history.
• Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: This gorgeous garden features a vast collection of plants native to South Africa and is a lovely place to spend a few hours wandering. Also, it is the start to some amazing trekkings up to Table Mountain!
• Learn about South African history: Cape Town is home to numerous museums and historical sites, including the District Six Museum and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into South Africa's past and are well worth a visit.
• Rent a car. Without it, you will miss a LOT. The most convinient is to rent it at the airport, but if you are on a budget, there some cheaper options like "rent a cheapy"
• Bring all kite sizes and if you like different styles, also different boards. It totally worth it.
• Dont forget your pump!
• Water is cold, take a thick wetsuit, 4/3 or 5/3mm. If you plan to spend time in Langebaan, its fine with something thinner.
• Is it easy to learn kitesurf in Capetown? Well, it depends! Cape town conditions can become really hard to learn, but it is possible. If you are looking a destination to learn kitesurf, we recommend you Tarifa instead!
In conclusion, kitesurfing in Cape Town is an amazing experience and definitely worth checking out if you're a fan of the sport. With its reliable wind patterns, warm temperatures, and stunning locations, Cape Town is truly a world-class destination for kiteboarding enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, there's no better place to experience the rush of kitesurfing than in Cape Town. So pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready for an unforgettable kitesurfing adventure in one of the most beautiful places on earth!
Carla and Rodri, combined experience flying kites of more than 30 years. And a Kitesurf World Championship...🔥