Top Spots To Learn To Kitesurf
"There are loads of great places to learn and clearly, learning depends very much on the wind and water conditions at the time but here are a list of 10 that we know and also feature some great schools and instructors that we work with to get you started. So in no particular order..."
WEYMOUTH - Portland Harbour
Look up name in the App: Weymouth – Portland Harbour
Where is it: South England, Dorset
Location Links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/61
What’s There: Portland Harbour (also known as Weymouth Harbour) known for its spectacular speed sailing conditions. Sheltered by the road and Chesil Beach that link Portland to the mainland. In a prevailing SW the wind that blows over the pebble bank resulting in windy, smooth water close to the west shore. The area is enclosed and safe, although at low spring tides there are a few sandbanks. There are three main access points. The Ferry Bridge Boat Yard car park avoids having to cross the road with your kit. The Council car park on Chesil Beach has stacks of space and large grassy rigging areas over the road but involves dodging the traffic to get to the beach.
Kitesurfing is a well-established water sport in Portland harbour.
Why is it a good place to learn: Portland Harbour stands out as one of the premier flat-water kitesurfing arenas in the UK. Its unique location on the south coast of England offers some of the best wind conditions in the region, making it a reliable spot for kitesurfing enthusiasts. The harbour is accessible in most wind directions and at any tide state, ensuring that you can get on the water no matter the conditions.
This versatility makes Portland Harbour an ideal destination for windsurfers of all abilities. Whether you're a complete beginner looking to learn the basics, a speed fanatic chasing new personal records, or a freestyle expert perfecting your tricks, Portland Harbour has something to offer. The combination of excellent wind statistics, flat water, and a variety of conditions ensures that everyone can enjoy the sport.
Water Conditions: Flat water
Launching: There are many options for launching which of course provide many different beach types. The beat running adjacent to the road provide a grassy rigging area and a pebbly beach.
Parking: Loads of parking near the main launching points.
Local School Link: The OTC https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/2915
CS Watersports Portland https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/4057
Troon
Look up name in the App: Troon
Where is it: Scotland
Location Links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/120
What’s There: Troon is a town in South Ayrshire, situated on the west coast of Ayrshire in Scotland, about eight miles north of Ayr and three miles northwest of Glasgow Prestwick Airport. Troon is also pretty close to one of Europe’s biggest wind farms.
It’s location is made up of two beaches separated by a spur of land containing a marina:
Both the beaches are great! South Beach is probably better suited for for beginners because it has better protection from waves, providing flatter water. North Beach (Barassie Beach)
The Beaches work on anything from Southerly to a North, North, Westerly. South, Westerly winds make the best waves.
Why is it a good place to learn: Grant - Head Coach at Kitesurf Scotland - “Troon is a great location - the wind works in all directions, apart from a very rare easterly - so we’ll always have you up and flying! Our beaches are safe enough for beginners, but the wind can be strong enough that it suits the intermediate too.”
Water Conditions: There is a reef on South Beach that at low water provides protection from the swell. Great flat water for beginners. For fun in the waves, it tends to be biggest at high water, steepest at low water on North beach.
Launching: Both beaches are approved for kite surfing – see signage on the beach for launch areas etc.
Local School Link: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/3666
LANCING BEACH, BRIGHTON
Look up name in the App: Lancing Beach, Brighton
Location Links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/36
What’s There: Lancing Beach is based on the south coast 5 miles from Brighton. It is a shingle beach between Shoreham-by-Sea and Worthing. At low tide a vast section of wet, compact sand is revealed which is popular with dog walkers. At the back of the beach are a number of pastel coloured beach huts.
Lancing is home to a sailing club and the beach is popular with sailing enthusiasts, windsurfers and kite-surfers. The surfing conditions are at their beast here during the winter months. The beach is divided into zones to keep water sport enthusiasts away from the bathers. A café, serving hot food, cakes and beverages can be found right on the beach.
Behind the beach is Lancing Beach Green, which has a children's play area and a new BMX and skate park. The green is occasionally used for funfairs, car boot sales and seasonal markets.
Why is it a good place to learn: Lancing is a fantastic spot for kitesurfing, especially for beginners. The shallow waters extend up to 100 meters at low tide, creating a safe environment for those new to the sport. The gently sloping beaches allow kitesurfers to easily stand up if they encounter any issues, such as problems with relaunching the kite or being separated from their board.
Lewis Crathern, who famously jumped Brighton Pier, is a local rider and adds to Lancing’s appeal as a premier kitesurfing destination.
Water Conditions: Flat water with chop to small waves depending on conditions. Usable wind directions: Southwest is the prevailing direction from the right. Will work in any south direction round to an easterly. Hazards: Check the LKSC map when on site situated in car park & side of beach hut.
Parking: Beach car park available at £1.50 per day
Local School Link: Check out The Kite, Surf & Sup Co https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/4406
East Beach, Southend-on-Sea
Where is it: Essex
Location Links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/20
What’s There: Shoebury East Beach is a long sandy/shingle beach that is backed by a large area of open grassland. It is a gently shelving beach with a large tidal range and is popular for water sports such as windsurfing and kite surfing.
East beach offers amazing conditions and there is a train station minutes away that connect the spot to central London in under an hour. When the tide is in, you can step off grass into the water and enjoy a flat-water playground. Playing here can be really surreal as at the right tide state you can be a mile offshore, stand up and then have a big container ship pretty close in the main Thames Estuary Channel! A large curving boom going out to sea marks the beginning of the MOD testing area, stay away from it and give yourself plenty of room if you are starting out or learning new moves.
East Beach will work on anything from NE all the way around to a SW. It is best not to ride for 90 minutes either side of high tide. There is a large grass area for launching and landing in the designated kite area between the boom and the slipway. Important information when Kitesurfing in the Southend area – You MUST have 3rd party Insurance.
Why is it a good place to learn: East Beach is a very popular spot and one of the best places to learn kitesurfing. It offers shallow, calm water and good cross winds. As the tide goes out the water level drops significantly allowing surfers to stand up for 1 mile. At low tide a number of lagoons form between the sandbars which generally provide flat water in all wind conditions. That means this is a great spot for beginners, and for practicing freestyle/wakestyle tricks.
Progressive Rating: Why is it a good place to progress
Water Conditions: Generally flat water with lagoons forming at low tides.
Launching: Launching is from a large grass area adjacent to the beach.
Parking: Parking is pay & display and right on the spot.
Facilities: Toilets are at the end of the car park and there is a food van there as well.
Local School Link: Infinity Sport Kitesurfing https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/2697
Lytham St Anne's, Blackpool
Look up name in the App: St Anne’s Beach, Blackpool
Where is it: Near Blackpool
Location Links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/111
What’s There: St Anne’s Beach located between the mud flats of the Ribble Estuary and the bright lights of Blackpool is the seaside town of Lytham. Despite being less than 5 miles down the coast from Blackpool, Lytham St Annes is very different. St Anne’s is an awesome kite beach with a very active kite surfing scene.
It’s a big beach. At various point in the tide there are a load of different options: Flat water lagoons for practicing tricks.
If you are looking for waves head further out or head North to Starr Gate
The beach itself at St Annes is a huge expanse of golden sand. The sort that is perfect for running around on and building sandcastles. It’s also a great spot for a paddle, however there are no lifeguards on duty and swimming isn’t recommended towards the estuary.
Behind the beach is a large grassy area featuring attractive gardens, a boating lake and Lytham’s iconic green windmill.
Head southwards and the beach becomes a haven for wildlife. Backed by sand dunes this area attracts huge numbers of wildfowl and waders. At Fairhaven Lake there’s an RSPB Discovery Centre providing plenty of information about the local wildlife.
Why is it a good place to learn: St Anne’s Beach is located on the Fylde coast just south of Blackpool, The beach is vast and sandy and at various tide states offers flat water lagoons perfect for practicing.
The closest BKSA accredited school is Northern Kites Based on the Wirral
St Anne’s Kitesurfing Club are located here. Please check out their website for information on memberships for access to the Club House https://stanneskitesurfing.co.uk/
The Local School is Northern Kites - Founded by local rider Adam Crouch, “We're all about bringing the community together. We have a super-experienced team who are here to help.
We are all about inclusivity, support, and showing everyone just how fun these sports can be. With the latest gear and pro instructors, we're here to make your kitesurfing and wing-foiling goals a reality.
Our shop is the ultimate destination. From kites to boards, we've got everything you need to conquer the water like a pro. Whether you're a seasoned shredder or just starting, our knowledgeable crew is here to hook you up with the best gear and insider tips. So come on in, check out our sick selection, and let's get you ready to shred the water like a boss.
Run by riders, for riders!”
Progressive Rating: Why is it a good place to progress
Water Conditions: St Anne’s works from SSE all the way round to NW. The beach curves round to the North to Starr Gate which practically runs from N to S, so if the wind swings further round to a pure northerly, just head North to Starr Gate. St Anne's does have waves of a sort but it does get blow out so its surfing white water. Some great flat water lagoons at low water.
Local School Link: Northern Kites - https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/2805
LITTLEHAMPTON
Look up name in the App: Littlehampton
Where is it: Southeast, West Sussex
Location links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/40
What’s There: This is a great spot. At low tide the water is shallow and relatively flat, so perfect for blasting or learning to Kitesurf or Foil Wing. The cafe has a great inside and outside seating area and serves great food. Great beach vibe and active Watersports centre. Super active Kitesurf community. Tonnes of parking by the roadside or there is a large pay and display carpark just over the road.
Why is it a good place to learn: Mikey - Head Instructor at The Beach Watersports: “You can expect expert instruction from highly qualified BKSA instructors who are dedicated to helping students of all levels improve their skills and achieve their goals. Kitesurfing lessons at Littlehampton beach are scheduled around low tide to take advantage of the optimal conditions. With a flat, knee to waist-deep water that stretches up to 150 metres, this location is perfect for both novice and experienced riders to hone their skills.”
Water Conditions: Flat water with chop to small waves depending on wind direction.
Wind Direction - ESE/SE/SSE/S/SSW/SW/WSW/W Water Conditions: Flat water with chop to small waves depending on conditions.
Beach Type - Pebbles
Restricted Zones - There are swim zone markers at various places on the beach.
Launching: Chat to the locals make sure you are launching in the right place.
Parking: Tonnes of roadside parking (pay and display – app parking available)
Facilities The Beach Café – Great place for food and just to hangout! Watersports centre part of the café.
Facilities: Beach Café, Active Watersports centre and beach club with changing rooms toilets and showers.
Local School Link: The Beach - https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/3645
POOLE & SANDBANKS
Look up name in the App: Poole & Sandbanks
Where is it: South England Dorset
Location Links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/55
What’s There: Sandbanks is an infamous learning spot boasting flat water that is shallow to several hundred meters out. A permit is required to use this location which is available from Poole Harbour Commissioners or the Bournemouth & Poole Kitesurf Club
You can sail at any tide state, there is very limited beach at high tide so be careful of the road.
Be very careful of the road that runs around the bay.
Stay away from the ferries and be aware of moored boats and buoys.
Why is it a good place to learn: Poole, particularly the Sandbanks spot inside the harbour, is a fantastic location for learning to kitesurf. The natural harbour creates an ideal environment with comparatively flat water, making it easier for beginners to focus on mastering the basics without battling the rougher conditions of an open beach. The shallow water, even at high tide, allows learners to practice without fear of getting too deep, which is especially beneficial when learning to control both the kite and the board.
The consistent coastal winds in the area provide reliable conditions for kitesurfing, ensuring that you can get out on the water regularly. The local kitesurfing community at Sandbanks is known for being welcoming and supportive, which adds to the positive experience for newcomers. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, Poole's Sandbanks is a prime spot for kitesurfing.
Water Conditions: Wind Direction - SSW/SW/WSW/W/WNW/NW/NNW
Water Conditions - Flat and shallow water.
Beach Type - Sand
Tidal Restrictions - You can sail at any tide state, there is very limited beach at high tide so be careful of the road.
Launching: Both beaches are approved for kite surfing – see signage on the beach for launch areas etc. A permit is required to kite at this location which is available from Poole Harbour Commissioners or the Bournemouth & Poole Kitesurf Club
Parking: Roadside parking is available around the harbour as well as some dedicated pay and display parking.
Facilities: There is a Tesco’s express on the harbour side that’s good for post session snacks as well as your usual café’s /beach snack shacks on the beach side. Poole has many good places to eat, drink and be merry!
Local School Link: EASY RIDERS https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/484
Greatstone
Look up name in the App: Greatstone
Where is it: South East England
Location Links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/28
What’s There: Greatstone Beach is one of the most kitesurfer friendly beaches in the whole of the UK. Located just 1 hour from London, this massive bay in Greatstone-on-Sea stretches across over 10 miles and is the only kite spot in South East England that works well for kitesurfing on North East wind direction.
Why is it a good place to learn: Silwia – Infinity Sport Kitesurfing “Greatstone Beach’s open clean shingle beach provides a safe environment for learning to kitesurf for the first time as well as providing a great place to practice and progress new tricks. It is a fantastic location to carry out kitesurfing lessons for kids due to the huge flat beach and waist deep water for hundreds of metres” Greatstone is one of those few beaches that will work in most wind direction, which gives max opportunity to get out on the water.
Water Conditions: Wind Direction N/NNE/NE/ENE/E/ESE/SE/SSE/S/
Water Conditions Conditions usually provide small to medium waves at medium to low tide as well as areas of shallow water which again is absolutely perfect for kitesurfing lessons or free riding. High tide is perfect for kite/hydrofoiling, due to the water depth, as well as for winging or stand up paddle boarding. At low tide, Greatstone Beach is a great kite buggy location, with a huge sandy strip along the shoreline to ride up and down for miles.
Restricted Zones: Launch kites at water’s edge
Tidal Restrictions: Please do not kite 1hr 30min each side of the high tide if you are not experienced rider - Low tide exposes a lot of wet sand, be prepared for 15/20 min walk to get to the water. - Do not leave any gear by the water as the tide comes in very quickly.
Launching: Launch kites at water’s edge
Parking: Pay and display car parking, free after 6pm. 3 charging stations, no high barriers.
Facilities: Toilet facilities, picnic area, nearby convenient shop, kitesurfing school and shop with changing room and shower
Local School Link: Infinity Sport Kitesurfing https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/2697
RHYL
Look up name in the App: Rhyl
Where is it: North Wales
Location Links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/109
What’s There: The main beach at Rhyl is a huge expanse of sand stretching for around 2 miles. The beach is quite flat so when the tide goes out there is a huge expanse of sand. Rhyl is a well-established seaside resort with a good range of activities on offer and facilities.
Plenty of parking options on the Sea Front - East Parade Carpark probably the most convenient by Pro Kitesurfing School.
Location updated by PKS Watersports - thanks guys!
Why is it a good place to learn: PKS “Based in Rhyl, North Wales our amazing beachfront training centre is the perfect location to learn kitesurfing. Our flat water lagoons make it easy to stand and progress safely perfect for water starts. Depending upon the wind direction we could be conducting your lessons either at our training centre in Rhyl, Porthmadog (Black Rock sands) Anglesey (Newborough beach) or Westshore (Llandudno) these really are the best kiting locations for learning in North Wales. Pro Kitesurfing is THE place to help you achieve your kitesurfing goals!”
Water Conditions: Choppy at high tide Flat water lagoons 2 hours after high tide
Restricted Zones: During peak season times stay to the right ( East ) of the chequered flags. As beyond the chequered flags is a public bathing zone
Tidal Restrictions: Big tidal drop, so can be a long walk to the water at low tide.
Parking: Car park at the beach
Facilities: Pro Kitesurfing Cafe
Local School Link: Pro Kitesurfing School - https://my.buccaneersessions.com/business/2433
old Hunstanton
Look up name in the App: Old Hunstanton
Where is it: North Norfolk
Location links: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/location/2
What’s There: North Norfolk is a popular holiday destination and Old Hunstanton sits just outside the bustling seaside town of Hunstanton. The tide retreats around ½ a mile to expose a sandy beach making it a great spot for learning and progressing. As the tide comes in shallow flat water lagoons form. At high tide there can be small waves.
Old Hunstanton beach sits on the very top of Norfolk’s curved coastline. Either side of Old Town are the spots of Heacham, Snettisham, Hunstanton and Brancaster which, with Old Hunstanton, facilitate an onshore wind in any direction other than a south easterly.
At the entrance to Old Town beach there is a great little café that’s open all year round and next to the car park is the Ancient Mariners Pub with a great lawn for that post summer session drink.
Why is it a good place to learn: The Flat-water conditions combined with the wide beach and shallow water may it a great place to learn. There is one area of mussel beds (marked by posts) but otherwise it is sand in all directions.
Water Conditions: Generally flat-water conditions with some small waves at high tide.
Launching: Kites generally launch to the left-hand side of the beach as your walk down from the Lifeboat station & Café. On a high tide the beach is quite narrow so take care with other beach users when launching
Parking: 2 car parks are convenient for Old Hunstanton beach. Firstly, a smaller car park in front of the Le Strange Arms where prices vary throughout the year and motorhomes can be accommodated (but no overnight stays.) Secondly the cliff top car park, which is accessed by Hunstanton Lighthouse provides more parking and easy access to the beach. This is a pay & display car park.
Facilities: There s a beach café that is open all year serving great food, hot drinks and ice creams. There is a nearby village shop, several hotels and a couple of pubs. The Le Strange hotel has recently built some self-contained cabins that are ideal for families or groups of water sports enthusiasts. Both car parks have public toilets available.
Local School Link: Breeze Kite School: https://my.buccaneersessions.com/pro/2969
