This kitesurfing in Cape Town guidebook aims to enrich your overall experience during your stay in Cape Town, not only from an adrenaline junkie’s point of view but also from a cultural perspective. What is it about Cape Town, that lures kitesurfers from all corners of the globe to its white, sandy beaches?
In this guidebook, I aim to cover absolutely all aspects of kitesurfing in Cape Town, from secret kitesurf spots to car rental companies to affordable accommodation. I’ll even touch base on the most unique volunteer programs.
General information – Kitesurfing in Cape Town
Kitesurfing in Cape Town will push your kiting abilities to the maximum! We are convinced that kitesurfing is one of the best things to do in Cape Town.
This guest post by Kyle Browning from Softback Travel outlines all you need to know about kitesurfing in Cape Town, South Africa.
But why is Cape Town so popular amongst kitesurfers? Well, one of the reasons is known as the “Cape Doctor”. It’s the local name for the strong, often persistent, and dry south-easterly wind that blows on the South African coast from spring to late summer.
Us locals believe that the Cape Doctor clears Cape Town of all its cumulative pollution by blowing the smog northwards all the way to Namibia. Sorry Namibia… but in winter it’s your turn as the wind directions shift North Westerly.
Check out Hannah Whiteley’s video below to get a taste of what it’s like kitesurfing in Cape Town.
Below are some facts to consider before you travel to Cape Town to kitesurf.
- Must have kitesurfing equipment for Cape Town – Wetsuit needed: A 4/3mm is recommended, on average the water is around 14°C (I know, it’s cold. – #Wim Hof Method).
- Best time to kitesurf here: During the summer months, October – March.
- Average wind speed: 15 – 30 Knots
- Most popular location to kitesurf: Kite Beach in Bloubergstrand.
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
This is Cape Town’s most famous kitesurfing spot and it’s also where the largest kitesurfing event in the world takes place: Red Bull King of The Air, pros from all around the world are 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 one of those picture perfect postcard destinations. Langebaan lies about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Cape Town city center.
This location is definitely worth the drive if you’re into flat water riding. It’s best to get to this location before peak season as between December to February it’s a very crowded spot with tons of beginner kitesurfers taking advantage of the flat water.
- 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 the kitesurfing location I first learned to ride switch at. It’s a location I’ll never forget. It’s an ideal spot for when the wind in Cape Town isn’t living up to its name.
Try not to crash your kite here though, you’ll regret it. There’s so much seaweed that entangles with your lines, it can take hours to clean off, and it stinks!
Hermanus lies about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Cape Town city center and makes for 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 about an hour’s drive from Cape Town city center, it too makes for an incredibly scenic road trip.
This spot is for very advanced riders who are in complete control of their kitesurfing abilities. Y
ou shouldn’t kitesurf too close to the kelp-beds; fall here and you’ll be washed mercilessly onto the rocks. If you are into extreme kitesurfing, this is the spot for you.
- 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 more secret, less populated kitesurfing spots listed on our kitesurfing in Cape Town guidebook.
Here, the water is flat and makes for a great place to practice all your tricks. Note: This spot works great on an Easterly.
Can be very gusty on a SW. Witsands lies about 3 hours and 20 minutes outside of Cape Town.
- Spot Difficulty: Intermediate
- Water Temp: 16°C
- Wind Speed: 15 – 30 knots
- Wave height: 0
- Wind direction: Side shore
How to get around in Cape Town
Transport within the Cape Town area is fairly efficient, there are many options for you during your stay in the Mother City. Check out our list below.
Public Transport in Cape Town
As far as reducing your carbon footprint goes, using public transport is hands down your best option.
- Is it safe? Yes.
- Is it reliable? Well, that depends. If you’re using the MyCiti bus, then yes. If you are using the metro rail, then not so much.
We recommend using the MyCiti bus. For Metro Rail, we recommend exercising caution. Don’t use this service after dark as on some lines it can be a bit sketchy. During the day it’s no problem.
- MyCiti: Routes and Timetables
- Metro Rail: Routes and Timetables
Rental Car Companies in Cape Town
Renting a car is recommended if you’d like to go on long kitesurfing road trips outside of Cape Town. There are many popular car rental companies, we will list our most trusted companies below.
If you are planning on visiting Cape Town in the summer months, we would recommend you make a reservation far in advance as car hire companies run out of stock fairly quickly in peak season.
(Click on each car company to be redirected to their page)
- Rent a Cheapie: From R109 per day.
- Fun Car Hire: From R165 per day.
- Avis: From R159 per day.
- Kennings: From N/A (Lots of van hire options | perfect for kitesurfing in Cape Town).
- $1 USD = approx 17 South African Rand.
Uber
Using Uber in Cape Town is extremely popular, it is a safe and affordable mode of transport within the Cape Town area.
Of course, as a kitesurfer it’s not really a viable option when wanting to go for a kitesurfing session, as Uber drivers do not always allow sandy gear in their cars.
It will costs you about R100 – R150 to get from Cape Town city to Bloubergstrand. (Approx $6 – $8 USD)
Where to stay in Cape Town, South Africa?
When it comes to accommodation in Cape Town, there are many options, some affordable and some extremely overpriced. We prefer the affordable options. After all, what’s the point of spending all your money on a square box to sleep in? Let’s live more sustainably, guys. But don’t worry, we’ll list all the options anyway 😉
For those who are looking after their budget and are comfy staying in dorm rooms, Cape Town has some extremely affordable backpacking option for you.
BIG Backpackers | Greenpoint
The B.I.G is walking distance from Cape Town’s city centre and only a few kilometers from the pristine beaches of Camps Bay & Clifton Beach. The B.I.G boasts modern, newly renovated, comfortable accommodation, in the relaxed atmosphere that makes Cape Town’s hospitality world famous.
Contact: bigbackpackers.co.za
Camping: No
Dorms: From R260 per night (Approx. $15 USD)
Private Rooms: From R880 per night per room (Approx $50 USD)
Breakfast included: Yes (plus eggs that you can cook yourself)
Parking: On-street and tricky if you come in late at night
Wifi: Yes
Tours: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes
Bar: Yes
Braai: Once a week, R120 all in (Approx. $7 USD)
Credit Card payments: Yes
Key Deposit: R100
Checkout: 11:00
Do they recycle? Yes
Salty Crax | Table View
Their “oasis in Table View” has a luscious green garden equipped with a jacuzzi, bonfire pit and plenty of space for you to hang up your surfboard and soak in the African sun. Their accommodation is ideal for us water-sport enthusiasts as they’re situated close to the beautiful white beaches of Blouberg and the famous Kite Beach.
Contact: www.saltycrax.com
Camping: No
Dorms: From R160 per night (approx $9 USD)
Private Rooms: From R335 per night per room (approx $19 USD)
Breakfast included: No (only on the first day)
Parking: Yes
Wifi: Yes
Tours: Yes
Swimming Pool: Jacuzzi
Bar: Yes
Other meals available: Yes
Braai: Twice a week, R50
Credit Card payments: Yes
Key Deposit: R50
Checkout: 10:00
Do they recycle? Yes
African Soul Surfer | Muizenberg
Contact: www.africansoulsurfer.co.za
Camping: No (but rooftop camping is being planned)
Dorms: From R150 per night (Approx $8.50 USD)
Private Rooms: From R450 per room Approx $26 USD)
Breakfast included: No (but there’s a breakfast menu)
Parking: No (on-street)
Wifi: Yes
Tours: Yes (but no Shark Cage Diving as the owner does not support this activity)
Swimming Pool: No
Bar: Yes
Other meals available: Yes (different meal available each night)
Braai: Bring & Braai on Fridays (weather dependent)
Credit Card payments: No (EFT and cash)
Key Deposit: R100
Checkout: 11:00
Do they recycle? In the process.
Once in Cape Town | Cape Town
A hub for young travelers looking for affordable accommodation combined with authentic and inclusive South African experiences. Enjoy their design led rooms with ensuite bathroom, handmade room amenities and crisp white linen. Plus, they’re a fair trade company.
Contact: www.stayatonce.com
Camping: No
Dorms: From R210 per night (Approx $12 USD)
Private Rooms: From R715 per night per room (Approx $41 USD)
Breakfast included: Yes
Parking: Yes
Wifi: Yes
Tours: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Bar: Yes
Other meals available: Yes
Braai: Once a week
Credit Card payments: Yes
Key Deposit: R140 and R150 for parking remote
Checkout: 10:00
Do they recycle? Yes
Airbnb
From extreme luxury to unique treehouse accommodation to single roomed apartments right next to the beach, Airbnb is an extremely popular platform to use in Cape Town.
Couch Surfing
Couchsurfing is a great platform to reach out to the locals staying in Cape Town, there are tons of helpful people out there willing to offer you accommodation for free in return for a lekker cultural exchange.
Where to eat in Cape Town?
Carlucci’s | Blouberg
Carlucci’s is one of Blouberg’s most famous eat out/breakfast destinations for kitesurfers.
In the mornings, this venue is completely packed with the likes of Kevin Langeree, Ruben Lenten, Nick Jacobson etc., you get the picture.
Kitesurfers flock here, as it’s located right next to Kite Beach and they serve the most delicious food and raw super juices to give you full power before you head out for your kitesurf session.
Jerry’s Burger Bar | Blouberg
Okay, this one is situated right next to Carlucci’s, I know, but man, are their burgers so good.
Let me set the scene for you. You’ve just completed a long kitesurf session in Cape Town’s cold Atlantic ocean, the sun is setting and you’re sipping on your craft beer whilst waiting for your caramelized onion and avo burger to arrive, all while gazing upon the fading hues set against the iconic picture of Table Mountain.
Trust me, visit this place.
Madam Taitou | Long Street, Cape Town
Madam Taitou is situated on trendy Long Street in Cape Town and specializes in Ethiopian cuisine.
This hidden gem has spectacular decor and diners are seated in a tree house style space with mismatched furniture covered in animal skins, potted plants and creepers providing privacy and African animal and tribal statues dotted here and there.
Raw and Roxy | Woodstock
Located on the bustling streets of Woodstock, if you are into superfood smoothies and raw juices, Raw and Roxy is for you. In her own words: ‘We create delicious raw vegan meals, gourmet salads, scrumptious guilt-free desserts, super healthy juices, smoothies with superfoods and tonics to boost your immune system, increase your energy levels and combat coffee addiction.’
The atmosphere while kitesurfing in Cape Town, South Africa
Kitesurfing in Cape Town’s most famous spot Kite Beach is more for advanced riders, who are confident enough riding in large waves and, if arriving in the peak summer months, in crowded oceans, too.
Kite Beach is a spot where most up and coming kitesurfers practice kite loops and large jumps, so being on the lookout while riding here is a must.
I was actually quite shocked by the number of kitesurfers here this summer season in 2020 and found myself cursing under my breath like an old man every time someone cut in front of me.
To escape the crowds, have your session in the early morning or during the late evening. The general vibe amongst the kitesurfers here is quite pleasant, I find everyone is more than ready to assist any kiter in distress, it’s like one giant kitesurfing unit! Let’s all continue looking after one another out there!
Average Wind Speed in Cape Town
Please note that the 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
There are various volunteer programs in Cape Town, which we’d recommend. Volunteering is a way to get outside of the kitesurf bubble and give back to the community. Below we will list our top 4 volunteer programs in Cape Town.
Sanccob
International Volunteer Program
Get hands-on experience working with endangered African penguins and other seabirds at the world renowned SANCCOB seabird centers in Cape Town or Port Elizabeth in South Africa.
- You must be 18 years and over
- No experience necessary
- Minimum 6 weeks in Cape Town or Port Elizabeth
- Placements all year round, with the busiest time in Cape Town from November to January for chick season.
As an international volunteer you will become an extension of the team of Bird rehabilitators, helping with most handling and feeding tasks.
Your programme fee for a six week period will include a volunteer T-shirt and a seabird release trip (weather and bird permitting). Further information about the Cape Town and Port Elizabeth international volunteer programme is available in the respective documents below.
Local Volunteer Program
Local volunteers play an important role at SANCCOB centers in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape and are needed 365 days a year to perform tasks such as:
- Assisting with seabird rehabilitation, cleaning, and feeding birds
- Driving/collecting seabirds
- General centre maintenance and cleaning
- Answering phones
- Education/behind the scenes tours
- Marketing/fundraising
Volunteers must be 18 years or older and reside permanently in the Cape Peninsula (Western Cape) or in the local Eastern Cape surrounds. Half day and full day shifts are available weekdays and over weekends.
To enquire about volunteering by Sanccob click here.
Haven Night Shelter
There are about 4862 homeless people living in Cape Town. The Haven Night Shelter has branches throughout Cape Town that do a amazing work for the homeless.
They offer people from all walks of life the opportunity to volunteer and give back to the community.
Volunteers get involved with meaningful tasks at either specific shelters, or the Haven Shelter Head Office.
TEARS (The Emma Animal Rescue Society)
TEARS is a well-respected animal rescue center in Cape Town. They are based in Sunnydale and do an incredible amount of good work to help neglected and abused domestic animals.
They accept volunteers ages 16 years old and up, including dog walkers.
Scalabrini Centre
Cape Town’s Scalabrini Centre takes more than 2,000 refugees, migrants and asylum seekers each month and assists them with various programmes to help with integration into local society in Cape Town.
They work closely with volunteers who assist with all aspects of their work, including welfare, advocacy, development, and outreach programmes.
They offer part and full time volunteer opportunities, but due to the nature of the work, request that volunteers spend a minimum of three months with the organization.
Visa Requirements For Foreigners
The following countries have free access to South Africa and can arrive without a visa and stay up to 15 days.
- Japan
- South Korea
- Russia
- Switzerland
The following countries will receive a visa on arrival and can stay up to 90 days (Please note: for a complete list of countries allowed in SA without a visa, please visit this website.)
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Brazil
- Canada
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Namibia
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Paraguay
- Portugal
- Spain
- Sweden
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States
What about sharks?
There is about 1 shark attack every 2 years on the Cape Peninsula. Yes 1, according to Shark Spotters, you have a better chance of being attacked by a swarm of ants.
Check out this cool infographic linking all the shark attacks since 1905 in South Africa. you can read more about this topic here.
And that is the ultimate guide to kite surfing in Cape Town, South Africa. When you visit Cape Town, be sure to give kite surfing a try and if you are an avid kite surfer, you’re going to love it here!
If you enjoyed this article or are planning to go kitesurfing in Cape Town, safe this to Pinterest to help with your travel planning.
Read More About South Africa Travel:
- The Very Best Things to do in South Africa
- 28 Reasons to Visit South Africa
- The Cango Caves of South Africa – Adventure and Claustrophobia
- 20 Amazing Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa
- iSimangaliso Wetlands – Horse Safari
- 27 Greatest Places to Visit in Africa
- Microlight Flight South Africa
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- Spectacular South Africa Wildlife Photos
- Penguins of Simon’s Town – Say Hello to Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
- Complete South Africa Travel Guide
First off, the photos look astoundingly surreal and out of this world! It’s like the sceneries were only captured to be viewed on a movie screen! The beautiful art of nature plus great
First off, the photos look astoundingly surreal and out of this world! It’s like the sceneries were only captured to be viewed on a movie screen! The beautiful art of nature plus great photography equals these masterpieces! Thank you for sharing these beautiful places with us even though it’s only through virtual but you made us inspired and motivated to work our asses off to even just visit one out of these many wonderful places!