Africa Kiteboard Spot in South Africa

Big bay

Big Bay Kite Spot offers big clean waves and pumping wind for more experienced kitesurfers, which is why the yearly Red Bull King of the Air competition was originally held there before it moved up the road to kite beach. It’s also a popular spot for surfers and windsurfers so it can get quite busy, but on perfect days it doesn’t get much better than kitesurfing at Big Bay. There is a promenade with cafes, bars and kite shops, and a grassy green overlooking the beach itself which is a great place to sit and watch the pros even if you aren’t out kiteboarding yourself.

Big Bay is only an hour or so from Cape Town, ‘The Mother City’, and South Africa offers a whole lot more than just kitesurfing, which is why kitesurfers from around the world descend here in large numbers from December until March every year.

Big bay Kitesurf season

  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec
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Big bay Kitesurfing wind conditions

Big Bay tends to get slightly less wind than kite beach and the other spots, but the waves hold up cleanly even in super strong wind which makes it a great kite spot for strong wind days. The wind also tends to pick up a little bit later in the day, so early morning kitesurf sessions may be better elsewhere. The wind in peak season January until March can range from 20-40 knots, and is a little gusty on the beach and close by, but once you kitesurf out a little it gets much better.

There are rocks at either end of Big Bay, and it’s a popular windsurf and surfing spot so be careful and check before you jump that you have clear water and enough room downwind! The beach can be small at high tide making rigging and launching your kite difficult, so this is definitely not a spot for beginner kitesurfers. Less experienced kiteboarders might enjoy themselves more at kite beach, and beginners should think about a trip to Langebaan, about an hours drive away.

  • body wear

    • long neo
    • short neo

  • downwinder

    • Yes

  • ride type

    • freeride
    • freestyle
    • wakestyle
    • wave

  • skill level

    • advanced
    • professional

  • spot type

    • ocean

  • starting area

    • sandy beach

  • water condition

    • big wave
    • medium wave

  • wind daytime

    • all day

  • wind type

    • gusty
Big Bay Beach Views to Table Top mountain with single kiter in the water

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Historical Wind Stats for Big bay Kiteboarding

How is the wind

Forecast for Big bay the next days

Infrastructure

Around the Kiteboarding Spot Big bay

Big Bay is a bustling little spot, popular among tourists and locals alike, with bars, cafes, restaurants and kite shops right on the spot. You can kite hard and enjoy the finer things all within easy reach of the kite spot here. A bit further afield it’s well worth hiking up Table Mountain for the stunning views over Cape Town and the bay itself, or driving round to see the penguins at Boulders beach and further to the Cape of Good Hope. It would also be a shame to visit Big Bay just for kitesurfing and not go on a vineyard tour nearby, which are educational as well as enjoyable, and there are plenty of drivers so you can enjoy a few glasses of South African wine and some delicious food! 

  • camper parking

    • Only by day

  • car parking

    • At the spot

  • emergency

    • A medical center
    • A rescue service

  • has restaurant

    • Yes

  • has toilet

    • No

  • has shower

    • No

Logistics

How to get to Big bay

Fly into Cape Town international airport (CPT) and then rent a car and drive yourself to Big Bay. It’ll take around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. A rental car is really essential anywhere in and around Blouberg for ease getting around, just be careful not to leave any valuables in your car as theft is a big issue here.

  • accommodation

    • near the spot

  • public transport

    • Mellow

  • rental cars

    • Recommended

Notice

It`s a pretty rough kite spot. Not for beginners or intermediate kiter. Whatch out for the small rocks bit up north, in some periods they are not visible. For safety have a check with the liveguards on the beach before going kiting.

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Questions

Read our answers

Can I find a rescue service at Big Bay for kitesurfing?
Yes, Big Bay offers a rescue service dedicated to ensuring the safety of kitesurfers and kiteboarders. They are well-prepared to respond to emergencies and provide assistance when needed, contributing to a safer kitesurfing experience.
What is the best season for kitesurfing in Big Bay, South Africa?
Big Bay, located near Cape Town, experiences favorable wind conditions year-round for kitesurfing and kiteboarding. However, the peak season typically falls between January and March, when the wind ranges from 20-40 knots. These months offer the best wind conditions and are popular among kitesurfers from around the world.
How are the wind conditions in Big Bay for kitesurfing?
Big Bay offers good wind conditions for kitesurfing, especially during the peak season from January to March. The wind typically ranges from 20-40 knots, providing opportunities for exhilarating rides. While it can be gusty on the beach and nearby, conditions improve as you kitesurf further from the shore.
What type of bodywear is recommended for kitesurfing in Big Bay?
For kitesurfing in Big Bay, it's advisable to wear a long neoprene wetsuit or a short neoprene suit, depending on your preference and the water temperature. These suits offer protection and comfort, ensuring an enjoyable kitesurfing experience.
Is Big Bay suitable for beginners in kiteboarding?
Big Bay is better suited for advanced and professional kiteboarders due to its challenging conditions, including rocks at both ends of the bay and gusty winds. Less experienced kiteboarders may find it more enjoyable at other nearby spots like kite beach, while beginners might consider a trip to Langebaan, which is about an hour's drive away.
What are some activities to enjoy besides kitesurfing in Big Bay?
Big Bay offers a vibrant atmosphere with bars, cafes, restaurants, and kite shops nearby. Beyond kitesurfing, you can hike up Table Mountain for stunning views, visit Boulders Beach to see penguins, explore the Cape of Good Hope, and enjoy vineyard tours, sampling South African wine and cuisine.
How can I reach Big Bay, South Africa, and get around the area?
You can reach Big Bay by flying into Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and renting a car for a 45-minute to an hour drive to Big Bay. Having a rental car is recommended for ease of transportation, but be cautious about leaving valuables in your car, as theft can be an issue.
Are there accommodations available near Big Bay?
Yes, there are various accommodation options available near Big Bay, catering to different preferences and budgets. You can choose from a range of lodging facilities while enjoying kitesurfing and the attractions of Cape Town.
Are there any safety considerations for kitesurfing in Big Bay?
Big Bay is known for its challenging conditions, so it's essential to be cautious. Watch out for small rocks, especially in the northern part of the bay, as they may not always be visible. Prior to kitesurfing, consult with lifeguards on the beach for safety checks and advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.