Best Kitesurfing Spots in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is an exceptional kitesurfing destination, offering a blend of breathtaking scenery, consistent winds, and diverse water conditions. Located in the eastern Caribbean, the island is renowned for its steady trade winds, which blow consistently from December to June, making it ideal for kitesurfing.
Anse des Sables (Sandy Beach) near Vieux Fort is the most popular spot, known for its long sandy stretch, shallow waters, and strong winds, perfect for both beginners and advanced riders. Cas en Bas Beach on the northeast coast offers a serene kitesurfing experience with flat, calm waters inside the reef.
The island’s warm tropical climate, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes, including the iconic Pitons, create an unparalleled backdrop for kitesurfing. Whether you’re seeking thrilling waves or tranquil lagoons, Saint Lucia provides diverse kitesurfing opportunities that cater to all skill levels, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts.
Wind conditions
Saint Lucia is known for its consistent trade winds, making it an excellent destination for kitesurfing throughout the year. Here are the average seasonal wind conditions:
- Winter (December to February):
- Wind Direction: Northeast
- Wind Speed: 15 to 25 knots
- This period sees steady trade winds, making it one of the most popular times for kitesurfing.
- Spring (March to May):
- Wind Direction: Northeast
- Wind Speed: 15 to 20 knots
- The winds remain strong and consistent, ideal for kitesurfing with slightly warmer temperatures.
- Summer (June to August):
- Wind Direction: East to Southeast
- Wind Speed: 10 to 20 knots
- Winds can be more variable, with some lighter wind days, but generally still suitable for kitesurfing.
- Fall (September to November):
- Wind Direction: Northeast
- Wind Speed: 15 to 25 knots
- The trade winds pick up again, offering steady and strong conditions for kitesurfing.
These conditions ensure that Saint Lucia provides reliable wind strength and direction for kitesurfers, making it a prime destination for the sport throughout the year.
Anse des Sables Beach
Anse des Sables Beach, located near Vieux Fort on the southern tip of Saint Lucia, is a prime destination for kitesurfing. It offers ideal conditions for both beginners and advanced kitesurfers. The beach features a wide, open bay with mostly flat to choppy water, making it perfect for practicing tricks and freestyle kitesurfing.
The presence of a protective reef ensures safe riding with minimal hazards. The area around Anse des Sables is also home to several kitesurfing schools, providing lessons and equipment rentals to enhance your kitesurfing experience.
Coconut Bay Beach Resort
Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is located on the southern coast of Saint Lucia, near Vieux Fort and the Hewanorra International Airport. This resort is renowned for its kitesurfing conditions, especially at Anse des Sables Beach, which is directly accessible from the resort.
The beach features a wide, sandy shoreline with shallow waters, providing a safe environment for both beginners and advanced kitesurfers. Coconut Bay also offers a dedicated kitesurfing center with equipment rentals and professional instruction, enhancing the overall experience for kitesurfing enthusiasts.
Plantation Beach
Plantation Beach, situated on the northern part of Saint Lucia near Gros Islet, is a hidden gem for kitesurfing enthusiasts. The shoreline is a mix of sandy and pebbly stretches, providing a unique kitesurfing environment.
The waters here are relatively calm and shallow near the shore, transitioning to choppier conditions further out, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced kitesurfers. There are no significant reefs or hazards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable kitesurfing experience.
Cas en Bas beach
Cas en Bas Beach is located on the northeast coast of Saint Lucia, near Gros Islet. The beach features a mix of sandy and grassy areas with a gently sloping shoreline, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers.
The water is typically flat to choppy, with minimal reef hazards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable kitesurfing experience. Cas en Bas is an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy the thrill of kitesurfing in a picturesque Caribbean setting.
Kitesurfing schools
Here are some of the top kitesurfing schools in Saint Lucia:
- The Reef Kite + Surf Center located on Sandy Beach in Vieux Fort. This is St Lucia’s first established kitesurfing school offering lessons for all levels using Cabrinha kites and equipment. They have a strong emphasis on safety with a sheltered environment and safety boat.
- Coconut Bay Beach Resort’s Surf Shack water sports complex located on the southern coast. They offer kitesurfing lessons with certified instructors and use Cabrinha Switchblade and Radar kites.
- Northwest Kiteboarding school at Coconut Bay Beach Resort. They offer kitesurfing lessons, freeriding, kite foiling, and strappless kitesurfing.