Kite Beach is a popular surf spot located in Cabarete, known for its diverse activities, especially kitesurfing. While it’s famous for being a kitesurfing hub, the beach also offers surfers a decent break. Expect a vibrant atmosphere, especially when the kitesurfers show up around midday, making for an interesting mix of water sports. The beach is often a good choice if you’re looking for something a bit different from the usual crowded surf spots.
The surf at Kite Beach is primarily a reef break, and it can handle swell sizes up to about 4ft (1.2m) and even bigger waves when the conditions are right—up to 15ft (4.5m) on the outer reef. The optimal swell direction is from the north, but it can work with both north and east swells. Typically, you’ll find the best rights out there, but there are lefts as well. Be prepared for a solid paddle to reach the outer reef, which can take around 15 minutes. It's worth noting that this spot is suited for experts, so if you’re just starting out, you might want to look elsewhere.
When you’re out in the water, the current can be challenging, so strong paddlers will have an advantage. The best wind direction for Kite Beach is from the southwest, and it works well at all tide heights: low, mid, and high. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, the morning is generally quieter before the kitesurfers hit the waves. Just make sure to watch the conditions and have the skills needed to tackle the uneven reef set-up.
