How much wind do I need to (learn to) kitesurf?

When you browse our website or research kitesurfing in general and it comes to describing wind speeds, you’ll often see the abbreviation “Bft.” (Beaufort). This refers to the Beaufort scale, originally developed by British Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort for seafaring to assess wave behavior at sea.

Today most sailors, surfers, and kitesurfers use this scale to gauge wind speed. It divides wind into twelve forces—from complete calm (0) up to hurricane (12).

For kitesurfers, things get exciting from 4 Beaufort. At this strength the sea is slightly choppy, a moderate breeze is blowing, and the first kiters can head out with a large kite and board. With a foil board you can even go from 3 Beaufort. However, this range is for advanced riders only, as the biggest challenge in such light wind is getting the kite airborne at all. As a beginner, stick to 4–5 Beaufort.

Wind speed can also be given in knots instead of Beaufort. Knot is a nautical speed unit based on the nautical mile. One knot equals 1.852 km/h and is exactly one nautical mile per hour.

7 to 10 knots correspond to 3 Beaufort. From about 10 to 11 knots—the boundary between 3 and 4 Beaufort—kitesurfing is generally possible. For beginners and newcomers, kitesurfing gets really fun from around 14 knots (4 Bft.).

When the wind reaches 30 knots (6 Bft.), beginners will really struggle at the latest. Pro kiters, on the other hand, are happy when the scale tops 35 knots, as new height records become possible. From about 40 knots (8 Bft.), most kitesurfers leave the water, and at 50 knots (9 Bft.) it’s definitely unkiteable.

Onshore, sideshore, and offshore describe wind direction relative to the coastline and thus characterize surf conditions. There are four main wind directions:

Side-shore / Side-on-shore

For beginners and improvers, a steady wind blowing parallel to the shore (side-shore) or slightly onshore at an angle (side-on-shore) is best. If something goes wrong at launch, you won’t be dragged straight onto land. As kitesurfers ride at right angles to the wind, in side- or side-on-shore they always head away from shore and then back again. This spreads everyone out on the water. If something happens farther out, you won’t drift out to sea but parallel to the beach, or with side-on-shore even slowly toward shore.

Onshore

Onshore conditions often come with shorebreak, which makes getting started much harder. For kiters, onshore is tricky because of the risk of being dragged uncontrollably over land. Wind- and kitesurfers must both gain a lot of upwind to reach open water from the beach. However, the wind flows in freely and is therefore steady.

Offshore

With offshore wind, going out is generally discouraged. Offshore wind comes over land, has to overcome obstacles, and is often very gusty. There’s also a high risk of drifting away faster than you think. It’s enough for the wind to drop and you won’t make it back. You’d have to swim against the wind, which is very hard to nearly impossible with kite gear. Only ride in offshore wind if you’re no longer a beginner and can confidently hold your edge upwind.

• best wind for starting approx. 12–22 knots (4–5 bft)
• best directions are side-shore and side-onshore
• avoid offshore wind
• take breaks in extreme weather conditions

By the way, at our destinations we always consider wind conditions and the spot. For a safe, relaxed kite holiday, feel free to get advice from us.

We’ve put together a selection of our most popular beginner destinations with ideal conditions for learning to kitesurf:

Seahorse Bay in Egypt is the perfect beginner spot, with a large standing-depth area right out front. Expect steady winds, warm water, small lesson groups for more space on the water, and kiting even at low tide. Between sessions, relax in our KiteWorldWide Kiteclub on the large terrace with lagoon views from your sun lounger. You’ll also stay exclusively with other kitesurfers and KiteWorldWide guests, with plenty of activities so there’s never a dull moment.

• Family vibe at Ibi & Friends Kiteclub Seahorse Bay
• Large flat-water lagoon for all levels
• Limited spots for more space on the water
• Stay right on the spot – from bed to board
• Exclusive with KiteWorldWide

Tatajuba doesn’t just sound beautiful—it delivers. Here you’ll find Brazil’s best wind: 99% wind probability and a very long season from July to early February. Multiple spots make Tatajuba unforgettable: a flat-water lagoon that reaches our Casa de Praia at high tide, endless room on the open ocean, and freshwater spots just a short buggy ride away. Regular downwinders are also offered for advanced kiters.

• 99% wind reliability
• large flat-water spot and standing area
• many different kitespots
• kite into the sunset 
• stay in green surroundings & right on the spot with pool

Kalpitiya in Sri Lanka is perfect for kitesurf beginners thanks to steady winds and a large flat-water lagoon offering ideal learning conditions. Our KiteWorldWide Lodge sits right on the lagoon and a boat shuttle gets you to the spot stress-free. Here you’ll find a mix of great wind, a safe learning environment, professional coaching, and extra activities—making Kalpitiya an outstanding choice for beginner kiters.

• Huge flat-water lagoon 
• Professional in-house kite center exclusively for KiteWorldWide guests
• No obstacles in the water & sandy bottom
• Lodge right on the lagoon with upscale standards
• Delicious full board, plus jungle safaris, historic cities, and more activities