Kitesurfing in Langebaan, South Africa

The spot

Situated about an hour and a half North West of Cape Town, the Langebaan lagoon is an excellent spot to learn kitesurfing. The most reliable wind we’ve ever seen (during peak season from December to February it gets so strong that an average rider may have a difficult time holding their 5-meters in one place), it gets amplified by the Venturi effect created by the narrow strip the wind comes through. It comes side-shore, making it relatively safe to avoid on shore accidents; there is boat service for extra safety and a variety of schools to choose from. The lagoon is cold (about 18 C) and steep – while a few degrees warmer than the ocean itself, you will still need a full on 3/4 or 3/5 wetsuit. Beware the strong current created by the changing tides – particularly when going out, it can be a huge effort to keep upwind as both the wind and the tide are pushing you in the other direction. So, overall, Langebaan is a great spot with constant, thick, reliable wind, great to learn and great to try out some of those tricks. So, overall, Langebaan is a great spot with constant, thick, reliable wind, great to learn and great to try out some of those tricks. If you happen to be a fan of seals – you’ll get a chance to ride with them – there are so many!

Some pictures from the main beach

Shark Bay, which is just a few miles south of Langebaan, greets you with shallow waters and cross on-shore wind. The wind here can be a bit gustier than Langebaan but nonetheless it is an amazing place to kite. At high-tide however, there is little room left on the beach to launch, so keep that in mind. It is also a good idea to bring along food and drinks if you plan to kite all day as the beach is part of the national park and there are no restaurants or bars.

Langebaan vibe

Langebaan is also a super relaxed place with lots of amazingly delicious little restaurants and, of course, some of the best steaks and wine we’ve ever had! Service at the food joints is great and the locals are very friendly. Night-life is limited and there isn’t much happening, especially during the week.

Places to eat

Other Activities

In the unlikely event of days without wind, or if you simply decide to engage in other activities besides kitesurfing, there are a number of things you can do: you can visit nature reserves, rent bicycles and cycle through the West Coast National Park, kayaking and SUP boards are available for rent, or you can simply drive down to the mother city.