Beginners‘ guide to kitesurfing in Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura, with its sunny skies, consistent winds, and stunning beaches, is a top
destination for kitesurfing. If you are a beginner and considering taking up this exciting watersport, you are in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your kitesurfing journey in Fuerteventura.

Why Fuerteventura is perfect for kitesurfing?!

Fuerteventura’s climate and geography make it an ideal location for kitesurfing. The island enjoys consistent trade winds year-round, and its beaches are varied, providing conditions that suit beginners and advanced riders alike. The wide, spacious beaches and shallow waters of many spots create perfect learning conditions. Whether you're learning to control the kite or riding waves for the first time, Fuerteventura has something for everyone.

1.) Choose the right spot for your first lesson

The first step in learning to kitesurf is choosing the right spot for your lesson. As a beginner, you’ll want to focus on areas with shallow waters and a good constistency of wind. Sotavento Lagoon, located in the south of Fuerteventura, is the ideal place to start. It offers flat, shallow water in the lagoon, where you can safely learn and stand while practicing kite control. The lagoon is large and spacious, making it a perfect spot for beginners. Additionally, the nearby ocean offers excellent conditions for more advanced riders, with waves for strapless riding and perfect kickers for jumps. If you are interested in the other spots of Fuerteventura. Check out our blog article “Top 5 kitesurfing spots in Fuerteventura for all levels”

Why Sotavento is perfect for beginners:
- Shallow lagoon with flat water for safe practice
- Wide and spacious beach, offering plenty of room for learning
- Trade winds, particularly in summer (May-Sep.), Fuerteventura gets hit by the trade
winds which ensures wind nearly every day.

2.) Understand the basics of kitesurfing

Kitesurfing combines elements of windsurfing, surfing, and paragliding. The key to mastering kitesurfing is learning how to control the kite. Here’s a brief breakdown of the basics:

• The Kite: The kite is your engine, catching the wind to propel you across the water. It’s controlled by a bar and lines, which you use to steer. 
• The Board: Once you‘re up and going, the board is your platform for gliding across the water. There are different types of boards, but most beginners start on a larger, more stable one.
• Safety: Kitesurfing comes with risks, so it‘s important to always wear safety gear like a helmet, life jacket, and harness. Your instructor will also teach you how to manage the kite safely and what to do in an emergency.

3.) What to expect during your first lessons

During your first lessons, your instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of
kitesurfing. Here is what you can expect:

• Understanding the Kite: You‘ll start by learning how to control the kite on the
  ground. You‘ll practice flying the kite in a safe, controlled environment before taking it to the water.
• Body Dragging: Before you start standing on the board, you‘ll practice "body dragging" where the kite pulls you through the water. This is a crucial skill for beginners to develop, as it helps you understand the kite‘s power and control.
• Getting on the Board: Once you’ve mastered the basics of flying the kite and body dragging, you‘ll work on getting up on the board. This is the most challenging part of kitesurfing, but with practice, you‘ll be standing and gliding in no time.

4.) The best time to learn kitesurfing in Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura has excellent kitesurfing conditions year-round, but there are a few things to consider when planning your trip. The peak kitesurfing season is from April to October, when the wind is strongest and most consistent. However, even during the off-season, there are plenty of good days for beginners, especially in the southern part of the island.

5.) What to wear when kitesurfing
What you wear is important to stay comfortable and safe while learning kitesurfing. Here’s a quick list of essentials for your lesson:

• Wetsuit: A wetsuit will keep you warm in the water, especially if you're learning in cooler months. Most kitesurfing schools will provide one and of course at Surfers Island we will kit you out with a good fitting Wetsuit. Even in the summer months we strongly recommend wearing a wetsuit. It is no only keeping you warm, but also safer. It protects you from strong UV lights and also prevents injuries as it works as protective layer over your skin.
• Harness: A harness is worn around your waist and helps you manage the kite’s pull without using too much strength. This is especially important for beginners.
• Buoyance aid and Helmet: For safety, you’ll wear a life jacket and helmet during your lesson.

6.) The importance of taking a lesson

While it may be tempting to try learning kitesurfing on your own, taking a lesson with a certified instructor is crucial for your safety and progression. A professional instructor will teach you the basics of kite control, ensure you understand the safety procedures, and help you practice in a controlled environment. At Surfers Island, we offer lessons for all levels, and our experienced instructors will help you learn at your own pace.

7.) How long does it take to learn?

Kitesurfing is a challenging sport, but with dedication and practice, you can start to feel confident within a few lessons. Most beginners take around 3-5 lessons to get comfortable with kite control and start riding. However, becoming proficient will take time, so don’t rush the process. Every kitesurfer’s journey is different!

8.) Kitesurfing etiquette and local rules
While you’re learning, it’s important to understand the rules and etiquette of kitesurfing. Always respect other riders, especially in busy spots, and make sure to follow local regulations. In Fuerteventura, some beaches may have specific kitesurfing zones, so it’s important to check before launching your kite.

Conclusion: Start Your Kitesurfing Adventure in Fuerteventura Kitesurfing in Fuerteventura is an unforgettable experience, and with the right preparation, it’s an adventure that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re looking to start your lessons at Sotavento Lagoon with Surfers Island or explore other beginner-friendly spots, you’re sure to fall in love with the sport. Ready to take the first step in your kitesurfing journey? Contact us at Surfers Island to book your beginner lesson today and discover the thrill of kitesurfing in one of the world’s best spots!