Kite Beach

Kite Beach sits north of Santa Maria on Sal's southeastern shore, where the northeast trades blow side-onshore across a long sand beach with flat water inside and waves outside, and that combination has made it one of the more reliable kitesurfing grounds in the Atlantic. The season runs through the winter when the trades are strongest, and schools and equipment rental operate from the sand. Ponta Preta nearby holds a bigger wave break.

What you actually see

• The steady trades - side-onshore wind blowing reliably through the winter months.
• The flat and wave sections - protected water inside and a break outside.
• The schools - instruction and rental operating on the beach.
• Ponta Preta - the larger wave spot along the coast.

When to go

November to May is the wind season, with December to March strongest. Summer is much lighter and less reliable. Harmattan dust can reduce visibility.

Honest expectations

Wind is seasonal and the summer months are often too light. The beach is exposed with no shade. Currents offshore are strong and the outer break is for experienced riders only.

Nearby

Santa Maria is south, and Shark Bay is north.