Kitesurfing and Windsurfing in Mui Ne
Part of the Mui Ne travel guide — see every topic in All Mui Ne Guides.
Mui Ne is famous among kitesurfers. For several months each year a strong wind blows along the coast almost every day, and the bay fills with bright kites. Many schools line the beach, so it is a popular place to take a first course. Windsurfing is also possible, and on calm days you can try stand-up paddle or simply swim.
The wind season
The windy season runs from about November to March, and some years into April. Wikivoyage says that from November to March there are strong winds almost every day, often from late morning until evening. This is the dry season, with sunny skies and very little rain. From about May to October the wind is weaker and less regular, and this is the wet season, with short storms in the afternoon. Some schools still teach then, but you may wait several days for good conditions. Check a wind forecast before you book a course, because each year is a bit different.
Learning to kitesurf
A beginner course usually takes several days. You start on the sand learning to fly a small kite, then move to the water to practise body dragging, and finally try to stand up on the board. Schools provide the kite, board, harness, helmet and life vest. Many teachers use radio helmets, so they can talk to you while you ride. Choose a school with a clear safety briefing, a rescue boat or jet ski, and an instructor who works with one or two students at a time. Prices vary a lot between schools, so compare a few.
Windsurfing and other sports
Windsurfing was popular in Mui Ne before kitesurfing, and a few centres still rent boards and sails and teach lessons. It can be easier to start on calm mornings, before the strongest wind arrives. Experienced riders enjoy the waves and steady wind later in the day. When the wind drops, many centres switch to stand-up paddle boards or surf lessons for small waves. Kayaks are also easy to rent. The sea is usually rougher in the windy months, so swimmers should stay near the shore and watch for kites.
Beach and safety tips
The beach in front of many resorts is narrow, and in some places it almost disappears at high tide. Schools often take students to wider beaches along the coast, where there is more space to launch a kite. Never fly a kite near power lines, roads or groups of swimmers. Strong offshore wind can push you out to sea, so only ride when the wind blows along or toward the shore, and always tell someone where you are going. Wear strong sunscreen and a rash vest. The sun and wind together burn skin fast.
Kitesurfing and Windsurfing at a glance
| Getting there | Schools and rental centres line the main beach road |
|---|---|
| Hours | Wind usually builds from late morning to evening |
| Cost | Lessons and rental priced by the hour or by course; compare schools |
| Best time | About November to March; check the wind forecast |
| Level | Good for beginners; courses take several days |