The Cape - Kitesurfing Paradise

Kite Surfing Paradise:

There a lot of magic kiting around Cape Town. The combination of world-class kite spots, the raw natural waves and beauty of the Cape with strong consistent wind makes this place incredibly special. After years of chasing the wind here, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances of each spot, from the well-known beaches to the hidden gems that mostlly local talk about.

The Cape Doctor

Cape Town’s wind is raw and powerful. If you’ve kited here, you’ll know about the "Cape Doctor," the famous Southeastern wind that starts to pick up as the land heats up around mid-morning and then typically starts pumping from 11 am till the evening. But one thing is for sure: when the Cape Doctor is blowing, you’re in for an epic day on the water.

The Classics and the Hidden Gems – Where to Kite in Cape Town

There are the iconic kite spots everyone knows about, and then there are those lesser-known stretches of coastline where you can kite for hours without seeing another soul. Here’s my take on the best places to catch the wind around Cape Town:

Big Bay (Bloubergstrand)

Big Bay is the go-to spot, and for good reason. It’s where most people start their Cape Town kite journey. The winds are consistent, the water’s shallow, and the setup is ideal for beginners and pros alike. Plus, the view of Table Mountain while you’re out there riding—it never gets old. If you’re looking to progress fast, you’ll find everything you need here, from rental shops to lessons. It’s often busy, but that just adds to the vibe.

Langebaan Lagoon

If you’re after flat water and something a little more chilled, Langebaan is your place. The lagoon is perfect for long sessions where you can really hone your freestyle tricks. The wind here tends to be a bit more forgiving than down in Blouberg, which makes it great for beginners. But don’t be fooled—when the wind picks up, it can give you all the speed and airtime you crave. There’s something about the vibe in Langebaan that’s hard to explain—laid-back, a little rustic, but always welcoming.

Swartriet

This spot is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s quieter than the main spots around Cape Town, and that’s part of the charm. The shallow waters make it ideal for freestyle and freeride sessions. You won’t find the crowds here, so it’s perfect for those days when you just want to escape and enjoy the wind in peace. The wind isn’t always as strong as Blouberg, but when it’s on, it’s on.

Elands Bay

Elands Bay is for the more adventurous kite surfer, especially if you love wave riding. The long, powerful waves here are what make it special, and when the wind’s right, you’re in for some epic rides. It’s a bit of a drive from Cape Town, but that’s half the fun. The raw, untouched beauty of this spot gives it an almost mystical feel. You’ll want to make a weekend out of it because once you’re there, you’ll be hooked.

Scarborough

If you’ve got the skills and you’re up for a challenge, Scarborough is worth the trip. The wind here is often stronger and more unpredictable, but when it lines up, it’s an incredible ride. The waves can get big, and the wind is often gusty, so it’s not a place for beginners. But if you’re confident in your ability to handle tough conditions, you’ll love it. Scarborough is wild, rugged, and unspoiled—kite surfing here feels like a real adventure.

Platboom & Downwinders to Witsand

Now, this is where it gets really fun. Platboom is a bit of a hidden treasure on the Cape Peninsula, with wild, open beaches and epic winds. The waves can be huge here, so it’s not for the faint-hearted, but for those who love wave kiting, Platboom is unbeatable. What makes it even better is the chance to do a downwinder from Platboom to Witsand. It’s a thrilling ride, covering a remote stretch of coastline where you can really let loose. No crowds, no pressure—just you, your kite, and the wind. Witsand itself is a fantastic spot to end your session, with more manageable waves and a more relaxed vibe.

Witsand (Next to Crayfish Factory)

Witsand is a classic spot that often flies under the radar, but trust me, it’s one of the best. Located near the Crayfish Factory, Witsand offers consistent wind and decent swells, making it great for both freestyle and wave riding. It’s far enough from the city that it’s not packed with crowds, but close enough that it’s easy to get to. The waves here are cleaner and more organized, which makes it a good spot to practice your wave riding.

What You Need to Know

• Get there early: Popular spots like Big Bay and Langebaan can get busy, especially during peak season. If you want to snag a good parking spot and avoid the rush, get there early and set up before the wind really kicks in.

• Watch the conditions: Cape Town’s wind can change quickly, and what starts as a mellow session can turn into a full-on battle if the wind picks up too much. Always keep an eye on the forecast, and be prepared to change up your kite size if things get gnarly.

• Respect the locals: Kite surfing has a great community feel in Cape Town, but it’s important to respect the local rules, other beachgoers, and fellow kite surfers. We all want to enjoy the wind without any drama.

Why Cape Town Will Hook You

There’s something special about kite surfing in Cape Town. Maybe it’s the way the wind picks up so reliably, or the way the sun sets behind Table Mountain as you’re packing up after a long session. Or maybe it’s the people you meet—kite surfers from all over the world who’ve come to experience the Cape’s magic for themselves.

Whatever it is, once you’ve kited here, it’s hard to find anywhere else that compares. The variety of spots—from flat water lagoons to gnarly waves—means there’s always something new to try. And the wind? Well, let’s just say the Cape Doctor always delivers.

Final Thoughts

Kite surfing in Cape Town is more than just a sport—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re a newbie looking to get your first taste of the wind or a seasoned rider chasing down epic waves, the Cape has something for you. From the well-loved spots like Big Bay and Langebaan to the secret gems like Swartriet and the thrill of downwinders from Platboom to Witsand, the options are endless. And after years of kiting the Cape, I can say with confidence—you’ll never get bored here.