Kiteboard Spots

Kitesurfing in Cape Verde
5 Kite Spotsin this country
Wave Spotsspots available
Warm Waterwater temp
$$ · Mid-rangeprice level

Top Wave Kiteboarding Spots in Cape Verde

Wave Sufer riding a white water wave at Kitesurfspot Ponta Preta
Cape Verde - Ponta Preta

Ponta Preta is a gnarly but incredible wave spot, with a wave that breaks close to the rocks and with offshore wind, so it’s definitely for advanced kitesurfers only! If you are at a level to take this one on you’ll be stoked with the long pumping waves and perfect cross offshore wind direction. The waves can get really big here, and the launch isn’t exactly the easiest with a big shore break to get through, but it’s totally worth it for the kitesurfing conditions once you get out. The wave kitesurfing world tour has stopped here more than once, and it’s home to Mitu Monteiro and Airton Cozzolino, two of the best wave kitesurfers in the world. If you could name a reason they got so good, it might be having Ponta Preta on their doorstep!

2 kites in the breaking waves at Ponta Sino
Cape Verde - Ponta Sino

Ponta Sino lies at the Western end of Kite Beach in Cape Verde, offering a mid size wave generally more suited to intermediate and advanced kitesurfers. The wind here blows cross or cross off shore so be careful not to kitesurf too far out past the point and into the open ocean. It’s one of the kite spots which is popular for jumping and freestyle, due to the waves breaking over a shallow reef with flat spots in between the waves. Kitesurfers wanting to jump should watch out for wave riders and vice versa.

Cape Verde itself is well known for its kitesurfing, and there are multiple local riders competing on the kitesurfing world tour. If you’re lucky you’ll get to see them in action in the waves, and if conditions are perfect you can head to Ponta Preta to watch or partake in some serious wave riding. Santa Maria is the local town where there is generally a really good vibe with all the kitesurfers hanging out in the evening, and the local seafood is as fresh as can be!

Random Wave at Kite Beach on Boa Vista Island
Cape Verde - Praia Carlota

Escape to the tropical paradise of Boa Vista Praia Carlota, Cape Verde, where kitesurfing enthusiasts can indulge in a thrilling water sports adventure. With its stunning beaches, ideal wind conditions, and vibrant nightlife, Boa Vista is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable kitesurfing getaway.

Das ist ein Kitestrand in Sal.
Cape Verde - Kite Beach Sal

Kite Beach in Sal is one of the most popular kite spots on the island, with a mix of waves and flat water, and is also one of the only places on the island where you can learn to kitesurf. It is located a short distance from the main town of Santa Maria, and due to the pretty friendly kitesurfing conditions and the fact you can choose to kite with either your surfboard or twintip, it tends to be one of the busiest spots in Sal. The island is home to multiple world champion wave kitesurfers, and kite beach is the place where a lot of people hone their skills before hitting the more aggressive wave spots around the island. The wind blows cross onshore, so it’s perfect if you aren’t super comfortable with the waves as you know you will always be blown back to the beach.

Or check out our worldwide "Kitesurfing in Waves"

Travel Information Cape Verde

regulationsregulations

European passport: valid min 6 months Non-EU: check information online Visa: Traveler Pre-registration form required for all tourists

drivingdriving

Driving: right-hand side Driver's license: international license required Alcohol limit: <0.08g/dL

languagelanguage

Official language: Portuguese Local creole: Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu) English: spoken at most tourist-facing businesses on Sal and Boa Vista

moneymoney

Currency: Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE) Tip: 5-10% at restaurants Cash: bring Euros - card payments are limited outside hotels and larger restaurants

medicalmedical

Water: do not drink tap water Malaria: minimal risk, no prophylaxis generally required Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus recommended; Yellow Fever if arriving from endemic country

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Time zone: GMT-1 (no daylight saving)

legallegal

Photography: prohibited near military installations, airports, and government buildings Drugs: strictly illegal - possession and consumption carry serious penalties

safetysafety

Petty theft: keep phones and cash out of sight in crowded areas Beach safety: strong currents at some exposed spots - check local conditions before entering

electricityelectricity

Voltage: 220V AC, 50Hz Plug types: C and F (European standard)

Frequently Asked Questions about Kitesurfing in Cape Verde

Question 1: When is the best time to kitesurf in Cape Verde?
Answer: November through August covers the main wind season, with December through June being the most consistent. September and October are the off-season - winds drop significantly and many schools close. Sal and Boa Vista are the most wind-reliable islands throughout the season.
Question 2: Do I need a permit to kitesurf in Cape Verde?
Answer: No general permit is required, but some beaches have designated kite zones. On Sal, Kite Beach has an established launch and landing area - stick to it and follow the right-of-way rules, especially during peak season when the water gets busy.
Question 3: Can I rent kite equipment in Cape Verde?
Answer: Yes - Sal has the densest concentration of kite schools and rental shops in the archipelago, most clustered along Kite Beach in Santa Maria. Boa Vista also has rental options but fewer schools. Book lessons or gear in advance during peak season (December-February).
Question 4: What is the minimum age for kitesurfing lessons in Cape Verde?
Answer: Most schools set the minimum age at 12 years with parental consent. Some schools offer junior programmes for younger children with lighter kites. Contact your chosen school directly to confirm their policy before travelling.
Question 5: Do I need to be able to swim to kitesurf?
Answer: Yes - swimming competency is a basic safety requirement. You will be in open water, often with current and chop. An impact vest adds buoyancy but is not a substitute for being able to handle yourself in the water independently.
Question 6: Is Cape Verde suitable for beginners?
Answer: Sal is one of the better beginner destinations in the Atlantic - flat, shallow water at Kite Beach, consistent wind, and a large number of IKO-certified schools. The conditions are forgiving enough to learn in, while the same spot offers enough variety to keep progressing for years.
Question 7: Is kitesurfing insurance required in Cape Verde?
Answer: Not legally required, but strongly recommended. Third-party liability cover is the minimum you should carry - it protects you if your kite causes injury or damage to others. Check whether your travel insurance policy includes kitesurfing or whether you need specialist cover.
Question 8: Can I meet or train with Mitu Monteiro in Cape Verde?
Answer: Possibly. Mitu is based on Sal and can often be spotted at Ponta Preta on good wave days. He runs a school with his friend Djo at Kite Beach and offers private coaching and clinics for serious riders - check his school directly for availability and pricing.
Question 9: What gear should I pack for a kite trip to Cape Verde?
Answer: A 9m and 12m kite covers most conditions. A 2mm shorty is sufficient for water temperature. Sun protection is critical - the Atlantic light is intense and the wind keeps you from feeling the burn. Bring spares for key components (bar lines, bladder valves) as local parts availability is limited outside Sal.
Question 10: Are there environmental rules for kitesurfers in Cape Verde?
Answer: Several beaches, particularly on Boa Vista, are protected sea turtle nesting areas. Respect designated no-access zones during nesting season (July-October) and follow local signage. Do not launch or land in turtle nesting areas and keep clear of the dune vegetation.