Kitesurfing in Phuket

Where to Kitesurf in Phuket

Kitesurfing has become popular in Phuket over the past decade. The island isn’t a world-class kitesurfing destination like Mui Ne or Boracay, but it works well for learning the sport and for intermediate riders who want to combine a beach holiday with time on the water. Two beaches offer good conditions: Rawai in high season and Nai Yang in low season. There’s really only one established school, Kiteboarding Asia, which runs operations at both locations.

Warm Water All Year Round

The water temperature stays around 28-30°C all year. You won’t need a wetsuit, just boardshorts or a rashguard. That’s one less thing to pack and one less barrier for beginners who don’t want to deal with thick neoprene. The warm water also means longer sessions without getting cold, which matters when you’re spending hours falling off the board during lessons.

Consistent Winds

Wind is the tricky part in Phuket. It’s not as reliable as dedicated kitesurfing destinations. From November to April, northeast winds blow fairly steadily at 10-20 knots, which suits most riders. But there are flat days, especially in December and January. The school monitors conditions daily and will tell you honestly if it’s worth going out. From May to October, southwest monsoon winds can be stronger and gustier, better for experienced riders than beginners.

Holiday Atmosphere on a Tropical Island

The real advantage of learning in Phuket is everything else. If the wind doesn’t show up, you’re not stuck in a kitesurfing-only village with nothing to do. There are dozens of beaches, good restaurants, and plenty of activities for non-kiting days or for partners who’d rather stay on land. Most dedicated kitesurfing spots are remote. Phuket isn’t. That flexibility is worth something, especially for beginners who might have several windless days during a week of lessons.

Best Seasons to Enjoy Kitesurfing in Phuket:

The High Season

November to April is when most people learn. The northeast monsoon brings side-onshore winds to Rawai Beach in the south, typically 10-20 knots. Conditions are generally calmer, the water flatter, and the weather dry. This is beginner-friendly season. December and early January can have lighter wind days, so a full week gives you better odds than a short trip.

The Low Season

May to October flips everything. Southwest winds hit the west coast, making Nai Yang the spot to go. Winds can be stronger and less predictable, with occasional storms rolling through. The school still operates, but conditions suit intermediate and advanced riders more than complete beginners. Expect some rain, though it rarely lasts all day. Fewer tourists means quieter beaches when you’re rigging up.

Best Locations in Phuket (Rawai and Nai Yang Beach):

Phuket offers several fantastic locations for kitesurfing, but two spots that stand out are Rawai Beach and Nai Yang Beach.

Rawai Beach

Rawai works from November to April. It’s not a swimming beach, which is actually good for kitesurfing since there are fewer tourists in the water. The shallow lagoon at low tide gives beginners a safe area to practice without drifting into deep water. The beach is on the southeast coast, about 45 minutes from Patong. Not the prettiest spot in Phuket, but functional. Kiteboarding Asia has their main base here with storage, showers, and a small hangout area.

Read about Rawai Beach

Nai Yang Beach

Rawai works from November to April. It’s not a swimming beach, which is actually good for kitesurfing since there are fewer tourists in the water. The shallow lagoon at low tide gives beginners a safe area to practice without drifting into deep water. The beach is on the southeast coast, about 45 minutes from Patong. Not the prettiest spot in Phuket, but functional. Kiteboarding Asia has their main base here with storage, showers, and a small hangout area.

Read about Nai Yang Beach

Wingfoiling

Wingfoiling is still quite new to Phuket but growing fast. It needs less wind than kitesurfing, so there are more usable days throughout the year. The gear is also more portable, with no lines to untangle. A few lessons can get you riding if you have board sports experience. Kiteboarding Asia now teaches wingfoiling at Rawai year-round, even on days when there’s not enough wind for kites. It’s a good backup skill to have.

Summary

Phuket isn’t a hardcore kitesurfing destination. The wind isn’t as reliable as Vietnam or the Philippines, and you only have two real spots to choose from. But if you want to learn somewhere with good weather, warm water, and things to do on flat days, it works. Rawai from November to April for beginners, Nai Yang from May to October for those with some experience. One school runs both locations, so booking is straightforward.

Kitesurfing Location Map

Kite Surfing Schools in Phuket

More Sports and Activities in Phuket