This kitesurfing in Cape Town guide aims to enrich your overall experience during your stay in this beautiful city, not only from an adrenaline junkie’s viewpoint but also from a cultural perspective. What is it about Cape Town that attracts kitesurfers from all corners of the globe to its white sandy beaches?

This guide covers all aspects of kitesurfing in Cape Town, from secret kitesurf spots to car rental companies to affordable accommodation. It even touches on unique volunteer programs.

General Information – Kitesurfing in Cape Town

Kitesurfing in Cape Town will push your kiting abilities to the maximum! Many locals believe that kitesurfing is one of the best things to do in Cape Town.

This guide outlines everything you need to know about kitesurfing in Cape Town, South Africa.

But why is Cape Town so popular among kitesurfers? One reason is the “Cape Doctor,” the local name for the strong, persistent, and dry south-easterly wind that blows along the South African coast from spring to late summer. This wind is believed to clear the city of pollution, pushing smog northwards all the way to Namibia.

Kitesurfing Cape Town Locations Guide

Please note: Only average water temperatures, wave heights, and wind speeds have been listed.

1. Kite Beach / Table View Area

Kite Beach is the most recognized kitesurfing spot in Cape Town, hosting the largest kitesurfing event in the world, the Red Bull King of The Air. Pros from all around the world can be seen kitesurfing here during the summer months, usually between December and February.

Kite Beach is about a 20-minute drive from Cape Town City Centre.

• Spot Difficulty: Advanced
• Water Temp: 13°C
• Wind Speed: 15 – 45 knots
• Wave Height: 2 – 5m
• Wind Direction: Side Shore

2. Langebaan | Sharkbay

Langebaan Lagoon is a picturesque destination, lying about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Cape Town city center. This location is ideal for flat-water riding, but it’s best to arrive before peak season, as the area can get crowded with beginner kitesurfers from December to February.

• Spot Difficulty: Beginner
• Water Temp: 18°C
• Wind Speed: 15 – 30 knots
• Wave Height: 0m
• Wind Direction: Side shore and Onshore

3. Hermanus Lagoon

Hermanus Lagoon is where I first learned to ride switch. It’s an optimal spot when the wind in Cape Town isn’t favorable.

Beware of crashing your kite here; the seaweed can tangle with your lines and take hours to clean off!

Located about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Cape Town city center, it’s a stunning road trip through the mountains.

• Spot Difficulty: Beginner
• Water Temp: 17°C
• Wind Speed: 15 – 30 knots
• Wave Height: 0m
• Wind Direction: Onshore

4. Misty Cliffs

Misty Cliffs is around an hour’s drive from Cape Town city center and offers a scenic road trip.

This spot is for very advanced riders who have complete control over their kitesurfing abilities. Stay away from the kelp-beds, as falling there can lead to being washed onto the rocks.

• Spot Difficulty: Expert
• Water Temp: 14°C
• Wind Speed: 15 – 30 knots
• Wave Height: 2 – 5m
• Wind Direction: Side shore

5. Witsands

This is one of the lesser-known kitesurfing spots listed in this guide.

With flat water, it’s an excellent place to practice tricks. Be advised that conditions can be gusty when the wind is from the southwest.

Witsands is located approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes outside of Cape Town.

• Spot Difficulty: Intermediate
• Water Temp: 16°C
• Wind Speed: 15 – 30 knots
• Wave Height: 0m
• Wind Direction: Side shore

Transport Options in Cape Town

Transport within the Cape Town area is efficient, offering various choices during your stay. Here’s a brief overview of options available.

Public Transport in Cape Town

Using public transport is hands down your best option for minimizing your carbon footprint.

• Is it safe? Yes.
• Is it reliable? Yes, especially the MyCiti bus. With the metro rail, exercise caution as it can be unpredictable after dark.

We recommend using the MyCiti bus. For Metro Rail, only use it during the day.

Rental Car Companies in Cape Town

If you want to embark on long kitesurfing road trips outside of Cape Town, renting a car is advisable. Many popular car rental companies are available. Make reservations in advance as stocks deplete quickly during peak season.

• Rent a Cheapie: From R109 per day.
• Fun Car Hire: From R165 per day.
• Avis: From R159 per day.
• Kennings: Options available for kitesurfing vans.

Uber

Uber is widely used and is a safe and economical mode of transport in Cape Town. However, it might not be the best option for kitesurfing sessions, as drivers may not accept sandy gear in their vehicles. Expect to pay around R100 – R150 for rides from Cape Town city to Bloubergstrand.

Where to Stay in Cape Town?

Cape Town offers numerous accommodation options ranging from affordable to excessively priced. We prefer the budget-friendly choices, allowing more funds for experiences. Here are our recommendations:

BIG Backpackers | Greenpoint

The B.I.G is within walking distance from Cape Town’s city center and is just a few kilometers from the pristine beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton Beach.

Contact: bigbackpackers.co.za
Dorms: From R260 per night (Approx. $15 USD)
Private Rooms: From R880 per night (Approx. $50 USD)
Breakfast: Included
Wifi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes
Bar: Yes

Salty Crax | Table View

Located in a garden oasis in Table View, this accommodation caters to water-sport enthusiasts and is near the beautiful beaches of Blouberg and the famous Kite Beach.

Contact: www.saltycrax.com
Dorms: From R160 per night (approx $9 USD)
Private Rooms: From R335 per night (approx $19 USD)
Wifi: Yes
Bar: Yes

African Soul Surfer | Muizenberg

Contact: www.africansoulsurfer.co.za
Dorms: From R150 per night (Approx $8.50 USD)
Private Rooms: From R450 per night (Approx $26 USD)
Wifi: Yes
Bar: Yes

Once in Cape Town | Cape Town

A hub for young travelers seeking affordable accommodation combined with authentic South African experiences.

Contact: www.stayatonce.com
Dorms: From R210 per night (Approx $12 USD)
Private Rooms: From R715 per night (Approx $41 USD)
Wifi: Yes
Bar: Yes

Where to Eat in Cape Town?

Carlucci’s | Blouberg

Carlucci’s is renowned among Blouberg’s finest dining venues, packed in the mornings with kitesurfers, serving delicious food and raw juices to fuel your sessions.

Jerry’s Burger Bar | Blouberg

Situated near Carlucci’s, Jerry’s is celebrated for its mouth-watering burgers, making it a perfect post-kite-surfing stop.

Madam Taitou | Long Street, Cape Town

Madam Taitou offers an Ethiopian cuisine experience, housed in a uniquely decorated space that enhances the dining experience.

Raw and Roxy | Woodstock

If you’re a fan of superfood smoothies and raw juices, Raw and Roxy is the perfect spot to rejuvenate.

The Atmosphere While Kitesurfing in Cape Town, South Africa

Kitesurfing at Kite Beach attracts advanced riders, especially those comfortable navigating large waves. During peak summer months, the ocean can become crowded. For a more tranquil experience, sessions in the early morning or late evening are advisable. The kitesurfing community at Kite Beach is generally supportive, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Average Wind Speed in Cape Town

Wind speed is shown in the Beaufort scale:

• 3Bft = 7 – 10 Knots
• 4Bft = 11 – 16 Knots
• 5Bft = 17 – 21 Knots
• 6Bft = 22 – 27 knots

Volunteer Programs in Cape Town

Participating in volunteer programs in Cape Town is an excellent way to engage with the community beyond the kitesurfing circle. Here are some top programs:

Sanccob

Join the international volunteer program to work with endangered African penguins and seabirds. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to help!

• Must be 18 years or older
• Minimum commitment of 6 weeks

Haven Night Shelter

Help provide support to the homeless community in Cape Town. Volunteers can assist in various meaningful tasks in local shelters.

TEARS (The Emma Animal Rescue Society)

TEARS focuses on rescued domestic animals in Cape Town. They welcome volunteers ages 16 and up.

Scalabrini Centre

This center assists refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers in integrating into South African society. They offer various volunteer opportunities.

Visa Requirements For Foreigners

Some tourists can enter South Africa without a visa:

• Japan
• South Korea
• Russia
• Switzerland

Others may receive a visa upon arrival, allowing a stay of up to 90 days. Refer to the relevant websites for complete details.

What About Sharks?

There is approximately one shark attack every two years on the Cape Peninsula, according to Shark Spotters. You have a much higher chance of a swarm of ants attacking you!

That concludes the ultimate guide to kitesurfing in Cape Town, South Africa. If you visit this stunning destination, be sure to try kitesurfing—you won’t regret it!