When is the best time to go kitesurfing in Kenya?

Tropical and mild temperatures prevail year-round along Kenya’s coastline. The water is usually 26 degrees, while the air is generally around 30 degrees. This enables a holiday that includes water sports without wearing a wetsuit, however, I’d advise bringing long lycras and a lot of sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense equatorial sun.

In Kenya, there are two distinct wind seasons:

1. Kaskazi – from mid-December to mid-March
2. Kuzi – from June to mid-September

With an average wind speed of 17 knots, the Kaskazi wind is quite dependable and consistent. Typically, the wind blows from late morning in the morning until 7 in the evening.

In Kenya, we usually refer to the Kuzi season as our “winter” because it is the cooler season. With an average wind speed of 18 to 22 knots, the wind is generally stronger but less steady. The passage of tropical rainstorms makes it more challenging to forecast the wind and weather.

Naturally, there are windy days outside of the wind seasons as well. You’re likely to see some windy days all year round, particularly between the months of April and October. However, it’s really difficult to foresee these, so you’ll need a little luck. The lowest wind guarantee of the year is in November! The wind is simply a mild breeze of 4 to 8 mph and is entirely onshore. In general, the ocean is tranquil and welcoming for SUP, kayaking, and diving.

Things to note: The spring tides, which occur on full and new moons, are when the tide variations are the greatest. Galu Beach has the significant advantage of always having adequate water to kite as opposed to central Diani Beach.

Sea urchins are naturally present on the ocean floor because the Indian Ocean is a tropical body of water. Since the areas where they enter and exit have sandy bottoms, they often pose no problems. However, if you are still uneasy, frequently lose your board, and haven’t mastered up-wind body dragging yet, you might want to carry shoes with a Kevlar sole to guard against catching sea urchins in your feet. 

Now that we’ve established when you should go on your Kenyan kitesurfing and/or windsurfing adventure, let’s check out some of the best spots this country has to offer!

1. Diani Beach

Diani Beach, located south of Mombasa, is undoubtedly the crown jewel of kitesurfing in Kenya. This tropical paradise boasts stunning white sandy beaches, azure waters, and consistent cross-onshore winds, making it ideal for kitesurfers of all levels. The peak season runs from December to March and July to September when the winds are strong and reliable.

Aside from kitesurfing, Diani Beach offers a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve. After a day of exhilarating rides, you can unwind at beachside resorts, savoring fresh seafood and immersing yourself in the warm hospitality of the local Swahili culture.

Best Kitesurfing Schools in Diani

Since Diani is a popular destination for kitesurfers, there are a bunch of schools available. All of these schools are also IKO-affiliated and offer high-quality kitesurfing lessons. I’ve taken a bunch of classes myself at some of these schools and can attest that the teaching is very good!

1. Kitemotion Kite School

KiteMotion is a professional kite school based in beautiful Diani Beach. They offer services to both beginners and expert-level riders.

KiteMotion has two locations: The main school is located at Sould Breeze Resort their second branch is located at the Flamboyant Boutique Hotel.

2. Quest Kiteboarding

Quest Kiteboarding, which was founded in 2014, is Kenya’s authorized Cabrinha Kites distributor as well as a professional I.K.O. Kitesurfing & Wing Foil Centre.

The center is located on the lush lawns of the Diani Sea Lodge, and offers coaching and lessons for kitesurfing at the beginner, intermediate, and expert levels.

3. H2O Extreme

H2O Extreme was Kenya’s first water sports facility and offers kitesurfing, windsurfing, SUP, surfing, kayaking, body boarding, and skimboarding.

Diani Beach as a kitesurfing in Kenya destination seems to have gained a lot of popularity over the last few years and now you’ll also find some schools at Galu Beach, which is the lesser populated area at the tail end of Diani Beach. Galu Beach is especially popular for kiters who are looking for a more tranquil and quiet area.

2. Watamu

About a 2.5-hour drive north from Diani Beach, we find another kitesurfing gem: Watamu. This coastal town is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, famed for its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. Between June and September, the trade winds known as “Kaskazi” create fantastic conditions for kitesurfing, while the “Kuzi” winds from December to March offer a different yet equally enjoyable experience.

What sets Watamu apart is its eco-friendly approach to tourism. Kitesurfers here have the opportunity to witness turtles nesting, explore the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, and contribute to various conservation projects. It’s a paradise for nature lovers seeking an eco-adventure.

Watamu is also great because you have more flat water areas, which makes for much better teaching, especially for beginners.

Best Kitesurfing Schools in Watamu

Tribe Watersports

Tribe Watersports is a renowned kite- and windsurfing, stand-up paddle- and wake-boarding, and water-skiing school. With over 20 years of expertise and affiliation with the IKO and BKSA, you can count on receiving tuition from the top coaches in the world.

JC Kiteschool

JC Kiteschool is another great kitesurfing center in Watamu, where you’ll be able to receive top-class coaching from IKO-certified instructors from all around the globe.

Kitesufing spots in Watamu you should check out!

1. Mida Creek

There is a broadwater tidal creek that is flanked by vast mangroves and lined with palm trees when entering the Arabuko Sokoke Forest from the sea. Many different bird species, fish, and feeding sea turtles call the 30+ km2 creek home.
The sandbar is located directly in the middle of the creek. Speak to one of the Kite Beach kitesurfing schools and take a look at it; low tide is the optimum time to do this. It’s a wonderful opportunity not to be passed up.

2. Turtle Bay Sandbar

The finest rides here are during the Kaskazi season, which runs from December to March. This is more of a seasonal kitesurfing location. Low tide is the best time to arrive because the water is flat and ideal for kitesurfing lessons or freestylers. Again, year-round cross on-shore winds are present.

3. Silversands

This spot is a little bit of a trip from Watamu and due to being a bit hidden around the coast, Silversands tends to work the best only in Kuzi season, so that’s from June till September when the wind hits this spot just slightly cross off-shore which also delivers some awesome waves. So if you enjoy wave riding, watch out for this one.

4. First Kite Beach (Garoda Beach)

The most well-known kitesurfing location in Watamu is Kite Beach. Along the coast, the beach spans roughly 5 kilometers. Most of the water is flat, however, there are occasional waves and small areas of coral reef. Even during low tides, this system performs admirably. In both the Kaskazi and Kuzi seasons, the wind frequently blows cross-on-shore.

3. Nyali Beach

For those seeking an urban kitesurfing experience, Nyali Beach in Mombasa delivers. With its lively atmosphere and warm waters, Nyali Beach provides a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping kitesurfing sessions and vibrant city life. The peak kitesurfing season falls between June and September when the monsoon winds sweep the coast.

Kitesurfers can revel in the challenges of the sea while taking in the stunning view of Mombasa’s skyline. With a variety of restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions nearby, Nyali Beach offers the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

Best Kitesurfing Schools in Nyali Beach

Pepea Kitesurfing School

As one of the most visited kitesurfing schools in Nyali, Pepea is a great option for kitesurfers seeking top-class equipment and lessons in the Mombasa/Nyali area.

4. Kilifi

Nestled between Mombasa and Malindi, Kilifi is a hidden gem known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. Kitesurfers are drawn to this serene spot, especially during the monsoon season from June to September, when the wind is at its prime.

Kilifi Creek, in particular, offers an idyllic setting for both beginners and advanced kitesurfers. The shallow waters and gentle waves provide an excellent learning ground, while the more experienced can explore freestyle tricks and jumps.

Best Kitesurfing Schools in Kilifi

Salty’s Kitesurfing Village

Saltys is a combination of a beach bar and restaurant which is a great spot for kite surfers since they have stunning tropical waters, quiet lagoons, and fantastic waves out on the reef. The center accommodates various kitesurfing types and also provides kite surfers with reasonably priced lodging.

Conclusion

When it comes to kitesurfing in Kenya, this country offers an enticing blend of adventure, nature, and culture that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. From the tropical allure of Diani Beach to the eco-friendly haven of Watamu, and the urban excitement of Nyali Beach to the tranquility of Kilifi, each location presents its own unique charm and kitesurfing experience.

As you embark on your kitesurfing journey across Kenya, remember to respect the environment and local communities. Let’s preserve these fantastic spots for future generations of water sports enthusiasts to enjoy. So, pack your gear, ride the wind, and immerse yourself in the thrill of kitesurfing in the heart of East Africa’s paradise.

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1. Rich Marine Biodiversity

One of the main reasons why Malindi Marine National Park is a great scuba diving site is its rich marine biodiversity. The park is home to over 600 fish species, including colorful reef fish, pelagic fish, and predatory fish. It’s also home to a variety of invertebrates, including corals, sponges, and sea anemones. Additionally, the park is a breeding ground for sea turtles, which can be spotted while diving.

2. Crystal Clear Waters

Another reason why Malindi Marine National Park is an excellent scuba diving site is the crystal-clear waters. With a visibility of up to 30 meters, divers can easily see the vibrant marine life and coral formations. This also makes it an ideal spot for underwater photography, as the clear waters allow for excellent lighting and visibility.

3. Protected Marine Reserve

Malindi Marine Park is a protected marine reserve, which means that marine life and ecosystems are preserved and protected from overfishing, pollution, and other harmful human activities. This has helped to maintain the richness and diversity of the marine life in the park, making it an ideal spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.

4. Variety of Dive Sites

Malindi Marine Park offers a variety of dive sites, suitable for both beginner and experienced divers. The dive sites range from shallow coral gardens to deep drop-offs, providing a range of underwater landscapes to explore. Some of the popular dive sites in the park include Barracuda Channel, Whale Shark Point, and Coral Gardens.

5. Whale Shark Encounters

One of the highlights of scuba diving in Malindi Marine National Park is the opportunity to encounter whale sharks. These gentle giants can be seen in the park from October to March, and diving with them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the sea, and diving with them is both exhilarating and humbling.

6. Vibrant Coral Reefs

The coral reefs in Malindi Marine National Park are some of the most vibrant and diverse in the world. The reefs are home to a variety of hard and soft corals, which provide shelter and food for numerous fish and invertebrate species. Diving amongst the coral formations is a breathtaking experience, as the colors and textures of the corals create a mesmerizing underwater landscape.

7. Accessible Location

Malindi Marine National Park is easily accessible from the town of Malindi, making it a convenient scuba diving destination for those staying in the area. There are numerous dive centers and resorts in Malindi that offer scuba diving trips to the park, making it easy to organize a dive trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Malindi is a great scuba diving site due to its rich marine biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, protected marine reserve status, variety of dive sites, whale shark encounters, vibrant coral reefs, and accessible location. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there’s something for everyone in the park’s underwater world. For more information on the Malindi Marine National Park, you can have a look at the official Kenya Wildlife Service website here.

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