THE LOWDOWN
The Turks & Caicos Islands (TCIs) should definitely be high on your bucket list – this is a high-end destination for kiters and non-kiters alike. The island of Providenciales has become one of the most desired kiting destinations on the planet, with two world-renowned beaches, Grace Bay and Long Bay, offering cross onshore winds, almost no crowds, and plenty of perfect, shallow, crystal clear waters. All this is just over a one-hour flight from Miami and easily accessible from all over the US.
KITING SET UP
Long Bay is the big go-to spot, a three-mile white sand beach on the south side of Providenciales. Onshore or side onshore winds, warm shallow waters, and fairly flat water with little chop, no rocks or rip currents means this beach is made for kiteboarding and is ideal for gentle, mellow kiting and foiling. At the center of Long Bay you’ll find Villa Esencia, along with the main kite schools that have set up here so it’s ideal for the learners amongst you.
For those more advanced riders, head to Grace Bay to catch waves on the reef and sandbars but expect deep water launches and strong northerlies here.
Two more nearby spots to check out depending on conditions are Leeward and Five Kays. The northern end of the beach is the shallowest, just a foot or two deep and only waist deep up to two miles out. This spot even in the busiest seasons provides a low density kiting environment, giving you plenty of space to learn, play or practice tricks.
WHEN IS BEST TO GO?
Hit here from mid-June until the end of August for the best kiting conditions, but there are consistent trade winds almost all year, except for September. If you’re looking for bigger waves and stronger winds, head here in the winter season from late November through to April.
NO WIND?
The TCI’s are considered one of the world’s best-kept secrets. Pristine beaches and spectacular coral reefs make it perfect for snorkelling and diving, and there’s always the option to SUP, kayak, sail or go fishing too. Jump on a horse, take a guided nature tour, or simply relax in the natural environment. Alternatively, indulge in little luxury and rejuvenate your mind and body in one of the world class spas on offer.
