Red Bull King of the Air 2024 in Cape Town

The Red Bull King of the Air competition gathers the very best kitesurfers from all over the world in Cape Town. A day full of adrenaline and action sports inspired by a strong wind against the stunning backdrop of Table Mountain can't be missed! The event takes place every year in December, January, or February, but the exact timing is announced right before the competition to catch the windiest day of the two weeks. When the event goes ahead, the world’s top kitesurfers take to the waves for a great show.

Competition

One of the main highlights of the contest is the dramatic showdown between top athletes, who compete in freestyle and big air disciplines. In freestyle, riders execute impressive tricks and maneuvers while demonstrating their creativity and control. In the big air category, competitors launch themselves into the sky, performing breathtaking jumps and stunts that leave spectators in awe. Athletes soar up to 65 ft (20 m) or more above the water, executing flips, spins, and grabs that seem almost impossible. The adrenaline, skill, and artistry on display create an electrifying atmosphere, making it a must-see event for both kitesurfing enthusiasts and casual spectators alike. The judges evaluate the athletes based on factors like height, technicality, and style, ensuring that every performance is both exciting and competitive.

Location

The Red Bull King of the Air traditionally takes at Kite Beach in Blouberg. It’s a scenic beach with spectacular views of Table Mountain. In summer, the beach has lots of good days for sunbathing and swimming, but on certain days the wind is the real drawing card here. In the summer, the area offers consistent wind speeds of some 30 knots, making for some serious big air moves.

Kitesurfing in Cape Town

Cape Town boasts a scenic coastline that kind of wraps the city. Southeasterly wind, known as "Cape Doctor," blows away the city smog and draws kitesurfers to the shore. When the rest of the residents and visitors seek shelter in restaurants, homes, and hotels, daring kitesurfers head to the sandblasted beaches and take advantage of the perfect weather conditions. Cape Town is an idyllic kitesurfing destination for athletes of all levels, but the King of the Air is meant for those who really know what they’re doing.

King of the Air is the marquee big air kiteboarding event and an exciting spectator competition, which is worth seeing even if you’re not one of the adrenalin seekers willing to experiment on the water. In the past years, over 7,000 spectators braved to attend the Red Bull King of the Air competition with their blankets on the sand and hoodies to stay warm. It’s not an average beach day but rather a thrilling occasion for the whole family with views that are hard to beat.