Portugal and its more than 125 miles (800 km) of Atlantic coast become an annual world attraction for sports lovers. For this reason, both amateurs and beginners of kitesurfing choose this destination to enjoy the calm lagoons, the soft waves and the constant wind. In addition, the practice of kite in Portugal is much less crowded than in other coastal countries, such as Spain, due to the large number of spots that exist throughout the country. If we add to all this the pleasant weather and the eastern breezes, the Portuguese waters become the ideal place for kiters of all levels.
1. Where to go kitesurfing in Portugal?
Portugal is one of the best places in the world to carry out these sports, due to the huge number of spots located along its coast. These are the best spots for kitesurfing in Portugal:
North Region. Viana do Castelo is considered the best spot in the north of Portugal due to its constant wind and big waves, as well as being one of the annual stops of the world professional kitesurfing circuit (GKA). On the other hand, Esposende is a kind of lake with the perfect conditions for kitesurfing: calm waters and clean waves. Ofir dunes create a natural barrier that protects Esposende from the Atlantic.
Lisbon Region. It is very common to go kitesurfing in Caparica, which has beaches such as Novo Vaga or Fonte da Telha. You will also find in this region Lagoa de Albufeira, with soft waves in the lagoon and strong in its outside. Finally, we have to mention the beach of Guincho, with huge challenging waves for every self-respecting kitesurfer.
Algarve Region. If you are a beginner, the Algarve will be the best region to learn. Southern Portugal has warmer waters, numerous spots and kitesurfing schools. Cabanas de Tavira offers virgin sand beaches up to 6 miles (11 km) long and strong winds between March and October. One of the best places to learn kite is in Lagos or Alvor, with a perfect combination of waves and calm waters. If you are looking for more spots in Portugal, we would like to make a special mention to Lagoa de Óbidos (the largest lagoon with calm waters), Comporta beach and several beaches on the island of Madeira, such as Funchal, Caniço or Porto Santo.
2. Who can kitesurf?
In Portugal, anyone who likes the sea, sports and adrenaline can learn to kitesurf. No matter your age, weight, height, gender or physical strength, kitesurfing only requires you to feel comfortable in the water and have a decent aerobic endurance. If you have balance and coordination, no matter if you are 6 or 60 years old, as long as you are healthy and want to dare new sports, kitesurfing is for you. Depending on the Portuguese kite school you attend, they may have an age range or another. Normally, the minimum is 6 years, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian until the age of 14 or with a signed authorization until legal age.
3. How many lessons do you need to learn?
If you want to defend yourself on the kite board, our recommendation is that, as a beginner, you start with a minimum of a 3-day course, although the ideal duration would be 5 days. If you want to have a good level of kitesurf, you can always combine these 5 days of course with about 5-10 days practicing freely with the safety of having acquired enough basic knowledge. Due to the large number of kite schools in Portugal, the courses are usually reduced groups, which facilitates a quick learning. The most important thing is to remember that no one is born knowing and that every kiter needs to learn at their own pace. Of course, we assure you that, despite being a challenging task, you will discover an addictive and exciting sport that will activate all your senses.
4. What should I bring to go kitesurfing in Portugal?
Normally, if you do a course or rent only the material to go by free, Portuguese schools usually provide you with the complete equipment: neoprene (short in summer and long in winter), harness, vest, helmet, kite, bar and board. The material provided by the school must be at your level to ensure your safety during the experience. On your behalf, you only have to bring a swimsuit, water, sun cream, and sunglasses so that the sunbeams don’t bother you when you keep your eyes on the kite for a long time.
5. Is it safe to do this sport on the Portuguese coasts?
Sure! Although kitesurfing is known as risky sport, if you have the instructions of an expert monitor and evaluate the previous risks, you don’t have to be in any danger. Prudence and common sense are the most important aspects when practicing this type of sports. In Portugal there are many kite schools along the coast, which can offer you the best approved equipment and certified instructors so that you learn safely and progressively. You will not have to worry about anything, as you will be attached at all times to a harness that is attached to a kite that you will have grasped all the time. In addition, kitesurfing sports as Costa Caparica have much more affordable conditions for beginners.
When is the best time to go kitesurfing in Portugal?
According to Portuguese kiters, this sport can be practiced 365 days a year, they even joke adding: "366 days if it’s a leap year". The best months for kitesurfing in Portugal are from May to October. During the summer months, the water temperature is usually 22-24ºC, while in the winter the temperature can drop by half. If you are in the north, the temperature will be colder than in the south. In Portugal, strong waves are common, but if you are a beginner, in summer you can find more friendly waves to learn and enjoy a soft freeride. Like the waves, the wind is also a common thing of the Portuguese coasts, although depending on the area and the season, its direction and intensity can vary. During the summer days, the so-called "Nortada" blows strongly, which are thermal winds from the north/northwest. If you are an expert in kitesurfing, the most challenging season to come to the Portuguese coast is between October and April, as you will find waves of all kinds that can reach up to 2 meters. The adrenaline will shoot you with the wild surf and strong winds.
