Windsurfing is a thrilling water sport that offers a perfect mix of wind, waves, and adventure. Whether you’re a beginner looking for calm waters or an expert chasing high winds and waves, the world is full of incredible windsurfing spots. Here are some of the best windsurfing destinations that should be on every rider’s bucket list.
1. Maui, Hawaii, USA
Maui is considered the ultimate windsurfing destination, thanks to its strong trade winds, big waves, and warm waters. The island is home to:
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Ho’okipa Beach Park – A world-famous spot for professional windsurfers.
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Kanaha Beach Park – Ideal for beginners and intermediate riders.
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Paia Bay – A less crowded spot with excellent wind conditions.
Best time to visit: April to October (for consistent winds).
2. Tarifa, Spain
Known as the “Windsurfing Capital of Europe,” Tarifa offers strong winds from the Atlantic Ocean and a vibrant windsurfing culture.
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Levante Winds (hot and strong) create high-speed conditions.
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Poniente Winds (cool and steady) are perfect for beginners.
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Stunning beaches and a lively town make it a great travel destination.
Best time to visit: May to October.
3. Bonaire, Caribbean
Bonaire is a paradise for windsurfers looking for flat waters, warm weather, and steady winds.
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Lac Bay – A top spot with shallow, clear waters and perfect conditions for freestyle and slalom windsurfing.
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Steady trade winds make it a great destination for year-round windsurfing.
Best time to visit: December to August.
4. Le Morne, Mauritius
Le Morne is a tropical windsurfing paradise offering both flat-water lagoons and massive waves.
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The lagoon is great for beginners.
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Manawa and One Eye are famous for their large waves, attracting advanced riders.
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The breathtaking scenery of Le Morne Brabant Mountain adds to the experience.
Best time to visit: May to November.
5. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
Fuerteventura is known for consistent winds, golden beaches, and world-class windsurfing conditions.
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Sotavento Beach – Hosts international windsurfing competitions.
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Flag Beach – Offers great waves and strong winds.
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Costa Calma – A beginner-friendly spot with calm conditions.
Best time to visit: March to September.
6. Jericoacoara, Brazil
Jericoacoara (or “Jeri”) is a windsurfing haven with warm water, constant winds, and stunning sand dunes.
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Flat-water lagoons for freestyle windsurfing.
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Strong Atlantic winds provide excellent conditions for all levels.
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A laid-back beach town with a lively nightlife scene.
Best time to visit: July to January.
7. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a windsurfer’s dream, offering powerful winds and waves along the coast.
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Big Bay – A great all-around spot for windsurfers of different skill levels.
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Bloubergstrand – Popular for its strong winds and beautiful views of Table Mountain.
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Muizenberg – A beginner-friendly location with moderate waves.
Best time to visit: November to March.
8. Lake Garda, Italy
For those who prefer lake windsurfing, Lake Garda is one of the best spots in Europe.
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The “Ora” wind provides perfect afternoon sailing conditions.
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Torbole and Malcesine – Popular areas for windsurfing schools and competitions.
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A scenic location with stunning mountain views.
Best time to visit: May to September.
9. Dahab, Egypt
Dahab is an underrated windsurfing gem offering flat waters, strong winds, and warm temperatures year-round.
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Lagoon Area – Ideal for beginners and freestyle windsurfing.
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Speed Strip – A long stretch of shallow water for high-speed runs.
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Blue Hole and Ras Abu Galum – Nearby diving spots for a well-rounded adventure.
Best time to visit: March to October.
10. Hood River, Oregon, USA
Hood River, located along the Columbia River Gorge, is one of the top freshwater windsurfing destinations in the world.
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Strong summer winds create excellent wave-riding conditions.
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The Hatchery and Swell City – Popular spots for advanced windsurfers.
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Steady winds and strong currents make it a challenge for thrill-seekers.
Best time to visit: June to September.
Final Thoughts
From tropical beaches to windy lakes, these destinations offer some of the best windsurfing experiences in the world. Whether you’re looking for high-speed action, freestyle tricks, or peaceful cruising, there’s a perfect spot for every windsurfer.
