Vanuatu is a beautiful place to kite surf although there are some dangers to be aware of. Being a group of volcanic islands fringed with coral reefs, many places are only kiteable for a few hours either side of high tide.
Kiting season follows the trade winds which is generally May to October. Outside this time, we still get wind but not as reliable or consistent to kite in.
If you enjoy a downwind kite, we can organise a kite safari for you. We will start at Takara and kite down to either Pele. I will guide you back in through the reefs.
If you need lessons or want a guide to locations call Robert from Kite Vanuatu on 5353389.
Below is information on some locations around Efate.
Pango Beach
Intermediate and Advanced kiters
Pango Beach is about 3km out of Port Vila travelling past Le Lagoon resort. It is a popular surf beach but for kiting is only good on a high tide.
This is a place for advanced riders.
The beach is more stone than coral and there are many obstacles to overcome.
Mele Beach
Safe for all levels of kiters
Mele Beach is about 8km from Port Vila and is a wide sandy beach suitable for all levels of kiters.
Just off the beach is Hideaway Island. The island is skirted by reefs so stay clear of them.
There are also some star pickets halfway to Hideaway island and metal posts that hold the water supply to the island.
Stay clear of the reef and the rocks and you won’t hit them.
It is beside the Beach Bar where you can have lunch and a quiet drink.
Takara
All levels of kiters.
Takara is about 40 minutes’ drive from Port Vila driving anti clockwise around the island. It is close to Beachcombers. It is a safe kiting area although there are many hazards around the beach that will damage your kite. You can kite inside the reef or venture outside the break. Once outside the break you can kite to a small sand island just to the south if you are keen and organised, head out towards Emua Island and do a downwinder to Kakula Island.
White Sands
Intermediate to Advanced rider
White Sands is about 12km from Port Vila driving anticlockwise around the island. It is past Tamanu on the Beach and once parked you have a 600m walk to the launch area.
Facing almost South East you get reliable trade winds here. It is a smallish area where if there are more than 4 kites you will need to be careful. and like most places in Vanuatu you can only kite a few hours either side of high tide.