Windsurfing in Phuket has become popular in recent years, and now it's one of the most beloved sports on the island. Here it's suitable for both well-skilled windsurfing enthusiasts and for those who want to try it for the first time.
Phuket has warm water and wind year-round. The best time of year for windsurfing on Phuket is usually from November to February, when the northeast monsoon is prevalent in the area with the steady winds and the flat seas.
The southern coast of Phuket with its shallow waters and a gentle wind has excellent conditions for beginner windsurfers and other water sports enthusiasts. Rawai Beach is suitable for newbies, and the peak kite season here is winter when the northeast monsoon blows. However, Rawai is a tidal place, so beware of the reef where many riders lost their fins. Nai Harn Beach, which is a few miles away from Rawai Beach, is adorned on both sides by jungle-covered mountains and sits one a large freshwater lagoon. This beach is popular with windsurfers alongside with luxury yachts and beach-goers.
Northwest Phuket is for more experienced riders looking for stronger winds and currents. Nai Yang and Layan beaches are probably the most well-known spots for extreme sports. The best wind conditions here can be observed from June through August. Other excellent windsurfing spots on the west coast of Phuket are Kata Beach, Patong Beach, and Bang Tao Beach. Don't worry about the equipment; there are many shops where you can rent it. You can also find windsurfing schools that provide courses for the newbies.
Practical info
When is the best time to go windsurfing in Phuket?
Phuket offers warm water and wind all year round, while the ideal time for windsurfing is from November to February. The northeast monsoon wind is prevalent, generating steady winds and flat sea that suits windsurfing. This is the favorable time for the sport, but it can be done at any time of the year. Show more
Where are the best locations for beginners to learn windsurfing in Phuket?
Phuket beaches are featured with shallow waters and gentle winds, which make them suitable for novice windsurfers. Rawai Beach and Nai Harn Beach are the best locations for those who want to learn windsurfing. There are schools with professionals to provide courses for beginners. It is advisable to take note of the tides and the reef areas when riding in Rawai Beach. Show more
Are there any safety precautions that need to be taken while windsurfing in Phuket?
One must wear a life jacket and have a leash that ties the surfboard to the surfer to prevent losing control and drifting too far off the shore. When it is high tide, avoid the reef areas and the boats or any other watercraft. Additionally, it is recommended to check the weather forecast before going to avoid unexpected changes in the wind patterns, informing others of the chosen spot, and expected return time is also necessary. Show more
Where can I rent windsurfing equipment in Phuket?
In several shops on a plethora of beaches in Phuket, windsurfing enthusiasts can rent equipment. These shops offer top-quality equipment for rent, which includes boards, harnesses, life jackets, and wetsuits. You can expect to pay around 1,000 THB per hour or 3000 THB per day for rental equipment, depending on the quality of the equipment and the season. Show more
What other water sports activities are available in Phuket, besides windsurfing?
Phuket is recognized for its water-based activities, including paddleboarding, surfing, kayaking, jet-skiing, wakeboarding, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, and fishing. In Phuket, you can also engage in swimming or sunbathing on various beaches if you are interested in more relaxed water-based activities. Show more
