Cape Verde is one of the great winter kitesurfing destinations. The north-east trade winds blow steadily from November to May, the water is warm enough for boardshorts, and Sal in particular has built a global reputation among wave riders and freestylers alike.
Wind and season
The reliable wind season runs from roughly November to May, with the strongest and most consistent breeze between December and March. Typical conditions are 15–25 knots of cross-shore to cross-onshore trade wind, with statistics that rival any winter destination in the world. Summer is lighter and better suited to swimming and diving than kiting.
Sal: the main hub
Sal is where most kiters go. Kite Beach, just north of Santa Maria, offers flat-ish water inshore and waves further out, and is the base for several schools. Ponta Preta is the famous wave spot for experienced riders, while the bay at Santa Maria suits beginners on lighter days.
Boa Vista and other options
Boa Vista is quieter, with plenty of space and steady wind along Praia de Chaves — a good choice if you want fewer kites in the sky. Other islands see wind but lack schools and rescue cover, so Sal and Boa Vista are the practical choices.
Conditions by level
Beginners should stick to the sheltered inshore areas with a school, as the open coast has waves, current and offshore hazards. Intermediates get consistent, forgiving cross-shore conditions to progress fast. Advanced riders come for the waves at Ponta Preta and the freestyle conditions on windier days.
Schools, kit and practicalities
Several established schools operate on Sal, offering lessons, storage, rescue cover and equipment hire. Bringing your own gear is common — check airline board-bag policies and consider a quiver of mid-size kites for the trade-wind range.
- Book lessons and accommodation early for the December–March peak.
- A shorty wetsuit or rash vest is enough in winter.
- Respect the local rules on where beginners can launch.
- Check your insurance covers kitesurfing.
Frequently asked questions
When is the kitesurfing season in Cape Verde?
From roughly November to May, with the strongest, most consistent trade winds between December and March.
Where is the best kitesurfing in Cape Verde?
Sal is the hub — Kite Beach near Santa Maria for all levels and Ponta Preta for experienced wave riders. Boa Vista is a quieter alternative.
Is Cape Verde good for beginner kitesurfers?
Yes, with a school. Sal has sheltered inshore areas suitable for learning, but the open coast has waves and current, so lessons are strongly advised.