Flatwater, playful waves, and off-the-radar vibes — this underrated trio is made for adventurous kiters.
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stretches for over 1,700 kilometers from False Bay to St. Lucia, following the wild curve of the Indian Ocean. As you travel eastward, the climate becomes noticeably warmer and more tropical, with lush surroundings, sandy coves, and inviting waters that range between 16°C and 22°C, a stark contrast to the colder, more rugged conditions of the Cape’s west coast.
Unlike the more famous kitesurfing hubs near Cape Town, the eastern coastline remains relatively under the radar, both for tourism and for kiting. But that’s exactly what makes it so special. Here, you’ll find hidden flatwater gems, clean reef breaks, and warm-water riding far from the crowds.
You don’t have to venture too far to get a taste of this coastal adventure. Within a few hours’ drive from Cape Town, three standout kitesurfing spots await: Witsand, Hermanus, and Struisbaai. Whether you’re into buttery flat lagoons, smooth open-sea waves, or just exploring quiet beach towns, these underrated destinations offer something unique for every kiter with a sense of adventure.
Southeast of Cape Town — three lesser-known kitesurfing gems spread along South Africa’s East Coast: Hermanus, Witsand, and Struisbaai. Expect warmer waters, a mix of wave and flatwater spots, and a more tropical vibe the farther east you go.
High: October – March (18–25 knots) Low: April – September (10–18 knots) Wind Probability: 95% in peak season
Air Temperature: 22–38°C Water Temperature: 16–22°C (shorty or full wetsuit recommended) Wind Direction: Predominantly SE, with some SW days Waves: Mix of flatwater lagoons and medium waves
Great for all levels — with flat lagoons for beginners, and open sea spots offering moderate waves for intermediates and advanced riders.
Whale watching in Hermanus, coastal drives, local seafood shacks, and quiet sunrise sessions far from the crowds.
The eastern coastline of South Africa offers a softer, warmer version of the Cape’s wind machine — still powerful, but with a distinctly more tropical touch. From October to March, steady southeasterly winds blow through most afternoons at 18–25 knots, creating consistent and comfortable kiting conditions across Witsand, Hermanus, and Struisbaai. Mornings are typically calm, with the wind picking up after lunch and lasting well into the evening — perfect for long, relaxed sessions.
With air temperatures between 22–38 °C and water ranging from 16–22 °C, these are some of South Africa’s warmest and most inviting kite spots. A shorty or light full wetsuit keeps you comfortable, though many ride in boardshorts during midsummer. The wind remains reliable, the lagoons glassy, and the waves smooth and forgiving — offering a refreshing mix of warm water, steady wind, and easygoing vibes that make the East Coast a hidden kitesurfing gem.
Southeast of Cape Town — three lesser-known kitesurfing gems spread along South Africa’s East Coast: Hermanus, Witsand, and Struisbaai. Expect warmer waters, a mix of wave and flatwater spots, and a more tropical vibe the farther east you go.
High: October – March (18–25 knots) Low: April – September (10–18 knots) Wind Probability: 95% in peak season
Air Temperature: 22–38°C Water Temperature: 16–22°C (shorty or full wetsuit recommended) Wind Direction: Predominantly SE, with some SW days Waves: Mix of flatwater lagoons and medium waves
Great for all levels — with flat lagoons for beginners, and open sea spots offering moderate waves for intermediates and advanced riders.
Whale watching in Hermanus, coastal drives, local seafood shacks, and quiet sunrise sessions far from the crowds.
The East Coast offers a refreshing mix of flatwater lagoons, mellow waves, and warm-water riding, all within a few hours of Cape Town. Witsand is the crown jewel — a vast, butter-flat lagoon formed at a river mouth, ideal for beginners, freestylers and anyone who loves smooth water and stunning scenery. A little closer to the city, Hermanus delivers both flatwater lagoon sessions and medium wave spots, making it perfect for progression and variety. Further east, Struisbaai combines a long, curving bay with gentle right and left-hand waves and a hidden flatwater zone near the harbour — great for freeride and surf-style riders alike.
Together, these three spots capture the laid-back, adventurous spirit of South Africa’s lesser-known coast — reliable wind, warmer water, and plenty of space to ride without crowds.
Southeast of Cape Town — three lesser-known kitesurfing gems spread along South Africa’s East Coast: Hermanus, Witsand, and Struisbaai. Expect warmer waters, a mix of wave and flatwater spots, and a more tropical vibe the farther east you go.
High: October – March (18–25 knots) Low: April – September (10–18 knots) Wind Probability: 95% in peak season
Air Temperature: 22–38°C Water Temperature: 16–22°C (shorty or full wetsuit recommended) Wind Direction: Predominantly SE, with some SW days Waves: Mix of flatwater lagoons and medium waves
Great for all levels — with flat lagoons for beginners, and open sea spots offering moderate waves for intermediates and advanced riders.
Whale watching in Hermanus, coastal drives, local seafood shacks, and quiet sunrise sessions far from the crowds.
On South Africa’s East Coast, the best way to experience it all is from one fixed base — and daily adventures out to nearby spots. Freeride specializes in guided kite safaris that do exactly that: setting up in one comfortable location and exploring the coast’s hidden gems depending on wind and conditions. From your base, you can enjoy flatwater sessions in Witsand’s lagoon, scenic freeride days in Hermanus, or wave sessions in Struisbaai’s open bay — all within easy reach.
Each day brings something different: a change in wind direction, new scenery, and a fresh style of riding. Our guided trips include local logistics, safety support, and insider knowledge, so you can focus entirely on the experience — chasing the best wind and discovering remote beaches most riders never see. Perfect for adventurous kiters who value comfort, variety, and expert guidance, these safaris combine the freedom of exploration with the ease of a curated experience.
Southeast of Cape Town — three lesser-known kitesurfing gems spread along South Africa’s East Coast: Hermanus, Witsand, and Struisbaai. Expect warmer waters, a mix of wave and flatwater spots, and a more tropical vibe the farther east you go.
High: October – March (18–25 knots) Low: April – September (10–18 knots) Wind Probability: 95% in peak season
Air Temperature: 22–38°C Water Temperature: 16–22°C (shorty or full wetsuit recommended) Wind Direction: Predominantly SE, with some SW days Waves: Mix of flatwater lagoons and medium waves
Great for all levels — with flat lagoons for beginners, and open sea spots offering moderate waves for intermediates and advanced riders.
Whale watching in Hermanus, coastal drives, local seafood shacks, and quiet sunrise sessions far from the crowds.
South Africa’s East Coast is all about variety wrapped in a more tropical, laid-back vibe. Here you’ll find butter-flat lagoons at Witsand and Hermanus that are perfect for beginners and freestyle progression, while Struisbaai’s bay delivers mellow waves for intermediates and smooth open-sea conditions for those building confidence in surf-style riding. The water here is warmer than Cape Town’s Atlantic side, making sessions more comfortable, and the quieter atmosphere means plenty of space on the water. Ideal for riders who want a balance of progression, exploration, and off-the-radar adventure.
Beginners
Intermediate
Freeride
Freestyle
Wave Riding
South Africa’s East Coast offers more than just epic kitesurfing. Between lagoon sessions and wave rides, there’s a wild world waiting to be explored:
One of the world’s best land-based whale watching spots, especially between June and November.
Explore the scenic De Hoop Nature Reserve, or wander the trails along Cape Agulhas and Struisbaai’s rugged shoreline.
Stop by boutique vineyards or farm stalls inland for a taste of local flavors and laid-back hospitality.
Join a deep-sea fishing charter or a relaxed boat cruise in Witsand or Struisbaai.
Unwind in laid-back villages where time slows down, with uncrowded beaches and warm coastal hospitality.
South Africa’s East Coast is a hidden gem for kiters seeking warmer water than in the west, steady wind, and space to ride. From butter-flat lagoons in Witsand to playful waves in Struisbaai and scenic sessions in Hermanus, every stop offers its own rhythm and charm. Between sessions, explore wild coastlines, spot whales, and enjoy the laid-back seaside vibe that makes this coast so special. FreerideKitesurf runs kite adventures made for riders — from downwind safaris in Brazil to kite cruises in Greece — designed for those who chase wind, flow, and freedom.
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