Kiteboarding & Kitesurfing Lessons FAQs: Your Questions Answered

We have interviewed our local expert kiteboarding schools and partners in some of the top kiting destinations to answer your top kiteboarding FAQs!

This comprehensive list of questions and answers kiteboarding lessons covers many of the common questions that students have before taking kiteboarding (also known as kitesurfing) lessons. We hope that you find this resource helpful. Feel free to let us know what we may have missed by emailing us! Thanks for reading and sharing this guide.

Is kiteboarding difficult?
Kiteboarding, also known as kitesurfing, blends balance, strength, and wind awareness. With dedicated instruction, it becomes an achievable and thrilling sport for many. Progress depends on individual effort and wind conditions. In general, it is a difficult sport to learn because there are a lot of safety components like how to use the gear, understand hazards, understand the wind, and applying all of those components together to be able to ride. Once you start to put the pieces together, kiting isn’t necessary physically demanding in terms of cardio or the amount of strength required to recreate.
How many days does it take to learn to kiteboard/kitesurf?
Learning the fundamentals of kiteboarding/kitesurfing usually takes about 3-5 days of lessons. Gaining proficiency and comfort will require additional practice time.
How many hours of lessons should I invest in?
For those new to the sport, a package of 9-12 hours, spread over several days, is typically recommended to solidify the basics and build confidence on the water.
How much do kiteboarding lessons cost?
Lesson costs vary widely by location and school, but generally range from $80 to $300 per hour. Look for package deals for a more cost-effective option.
Why are kiteboarding lessons pricey?
The cost reflects one-on-one or small group instruction, use of specialized equipment, safety protocols, insurance, and sometimes support from boats or jet skis, ensuring a safe and accelerated learning curve. The season is also typically short and instructors can typically only do 1-2 lessons per day.
What is IKO?
The International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO) sets the international standards for kiteboarding and kitesurfing teaching and safety. IKO certification is a mark of quality and safety in instruction.
Can I learn to kiteboard on my own?
While self-teaching is possible, we do not recommend trying to learn this sport on your own because of the level of safety protocols needed to keep yourself and others safe. Professional lessons are crucial for learning safely and efficiently, helping you to quickly grasp essential skills and safety procedures. Professional guidance ensures you learn correct techniques from the start, understand safety systems, and reduce the risk of injury, making your progression quicker and safer.
What are the best places to learn kiteboarding?
It depends. Ideal spots offer consistent, steady winds and shallow waters. Locations like La Ventana, Tarifa, and Maui are celebrated for their excellent conditions for learners. You may also want to look for less crowded destinations and places with warmer water if you don’t feel like learning with a wetsuit. If you’re traveling to a destination to learn the sport, look to spend a good amount of time learning the sport and practicing it.
What is a zero to hero package?
This comprehensive course is designed to transform a complete novice into an independent rider, covering all necessary skills and knowledge, typically over 5-10 days.
What are private lessons?
Private lessons offer tailored, one-on-one coaching, focusing directly on your personal progress and specific needs, ideal for fast-tracking your skills. While private lessons provide personalized attention and quicker learning, group lessons can be more affordable and socially engaging. The choice depends on your learning preferences and budget.

Most schools only offer group lessons for the first day when you’re learning kite safety, kite setup and getting the land lesson. It’s easy to get this training as a group but as you progress to body dragging and advanced lessons, you’re most likely better off with private lessons.
Do I need jet ski assist for my lessons?
Jet ski assisted lessons are not required. They are simply a tool to help speed up the learning process but jet ski lessons can also skip the repetitive steps needed to become an independent kiter like board retrieval and entering/exiting the water on land. We recommend human powered lessons 🙂
How does wind impact the kite lessons?
Wind conditions are crucial for kiteboarding/kitesurfing. Lessons depend on suitable wind strength and direction; too little wind makes it hard to practice, while too much can be unsafe. Instructors tailor lessons to current conditions for a safe, productive experience.
Can I spread out my lessons over a long period, or should I learn it all at once?
Spreading lessons out can accommodate busy schedules and allow time to practice between sessions. However, taking lessons consecutively helps maintain momentum and reinforce skills more effectively. Consider your lifestyle and goals when scheduling. We recommend getting to a point where you are an independent kiter in the same season.
How many days do I need to learn kiteboarding/kitesurfing?
Plan for at least 3-5 days of lessons to grasp the basics. Allowing for additional days for practice and advanced learning is beneficial.
What should I own or buy before taking kiting lessons?
Schools typically provide all necessary equipment (kite, harness, leash, helmet, booties, impact vest etc.). Bring water-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a readiness to learn. Purchasing your own gear is advised only when you’re committed to the sport and even then, most kite schools rent the gear.
How can I prepare for my kiteboarding lesson in advance?
Physical fitness, particularly core and upper body strength, and swimming skills are beneficial. Familiarizing yourself with wind dynamics and kite control fundamentals through videos can also give you a head start. You may consider checking out kiteboarding terminology guide.
How can I save money on kite lessons?
If you know you want to learn the support, the best way to save money is to commit to a longer duration of hours. Lessons get cheaper as you buy more hours. There are few things to consider however before committing to a bigger package: what if there is no wind during your stay? what if you don’t end up liking the sport?
What should I look for in a kite school? How do I know that they’re good?
At TripOutside, before onboarding a school on our site, here are the things that we look for:

1. ratings/reviews and review count.
2. Certifications and experience: IKO certifications or instructor experience is critical.
3. Insurance and permits: do they mention having insurance and the necessary permits to teach at the destination?
4. Vibe: Call the instructor or the school and ask questions. Do they rush you on the answers or do they take the time to answer your questions and make sure that you feel comfortable and treat you like a customer and not just a number?