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Los Barriles Kiteboarding Lessons

Lesson

Duration: 8 hours

Features

On the Water
Beginner Friendly
Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
$800 8 Hour Zero to Hero
$100 Advanced lessons
(price per hour)
$120 Foiling Lesson per hour
$220 Intro to kiteboarding
(2 hour intro to kiteboarding)

Description

Experience the Thrill of Kiteboarding in Los Barriles!

Looking to take your Baja Sur vacation to the next level? We offer world-class kiteboarding lessons in the idyllic village of Los Barriles on the East Cape of the Sea of Cortez. With its long, uncrowded sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and nearly constant sunshine, Los Barriles provides some of the best kiteboarding conditions in the world. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rider looking to hone your skills, this is the perfect destination to ride the wind and waves.

From November 15th to March 15th each year, our expert instructors are ready to help you progress safely and confidently, tailoring lessons to your exact needs. Lessons typically combine hands-on theory and exhilarating on-water practice, with all the equipment provided. Their one-on-one instruction ensures you’ll make the most of every session.

Los Barriles, nestled where the Sierra de la Laguna mountains meet the sparkling waters of the Sea of Cortez, offers not only perfect kiteboarding conditions but also breathtaking scenery. This sparsely populated region of subtropical forest is rich with wildlife and boasts unspoiled air, making it the ultimate backdrop for your adventure.

With our top-tier safety watch and rescue services, you can focus on enjoying every moment of this action-packed sport. Come discover why kiteboarding in Los Barriles is an unforgettable experience!

Lesson Options & Explanation

Intro to Kiteboarding (2 Hours)

A private, one-on-one session for complete beginners with no prior kiteboarding experience. This lesson introduces the fundamental principles of kiteboarding, including safety protocols, equipment preparation, and basic kite-flying skills. Lessons are primarily land-based, but may include water practice depending on conditions and student progress.

Intro to Kiteboarding Duo (2 Hours)

A shared beginner lesson for two students with one instructor. Covers the same fundamentals as the private Intro to Kiteboarding session, including safety, equipment setup, and basic kite control. Practice is primarily land-based, with potential water time based on conditions and student readiness.

Intro to Kiteboarding Full Course (8 Hours)

A comprehensive, private course designed to take beginners from their first kite-flying experience to safe, independent kiteboarding. The first two hours cover foundational skills (as outlined in the Intro to Kiteboarding session), followed by in-depth lessons focused on progressing to riding and self-sufficiency. By the end of this course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to practice independently and manage their own kiteboarding gear.

Intro to Kiteboarding Full Course Duo (8 Hours)

This course begins with two students sharing the first two hours of instruction, covering basic skills and safety. For safety and faster progression, the remaining lessons are conducted as private, one-on-one sessions with the instructor. Students will work toward safe, independent kiteboarding by the end of the course.

Advanced Lessons (Price per Hour)

Private lessons tailored for experienced students who want to refine their skills or learn advanced techniques. Ideal for those with their own equipment (rental gear is available if needed). These sessions can also help students who have partially completed a beginner course and need additional instruction to achieve independent riding. Already proficient riders can use this course to advance techniques such as jumping, transitions, or tricks.

Foiling Lessons (Price per Hour)

One-on-one instruction for all skill levels, from first-time foilers to advanced riders looking to master complex techniques. Rental foil equipment is available at standard rates if needed.

Duration of Adventure

  • Kiteboarding lesson packages start at 2 hours for some of the intro lessons.
  • One option for an 8 hour full course.

Location / Where to Meet

  • Hotel Playa Del Sol in Los Barriles which is on the East Cape of Baja California Sur about an hours drive from San Jose Del Cabo’s international airport.

Ages & Requirements

  • The official minimum age recommended by the IKO (International Kiteboarding Association is 12 years old.

What’s Included

  • Lessons will typically include some theory explanation followed with on-water practice.
  • All the equipment you will need is provided.

Not Included

  • Gratuity - Never expected but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your instructors!
  • Additional hours for one on one instruction can be added for an extra fee.

What to Bring / Wear

  • Swimsuit
  • Rash Guard / Wetsuit
  • Towel
  • Reef-Safe Sunscreen
  • Extra Layers of Clothing - Sweatshirts and warm hats
  • Dry bag
  • Snacks & Water
  • Required paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
  • Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get damaged by water or you don’t want to lose or could get caught on the equipment.

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Vela Baja

FAQs

What are the kiteboarding conditions?

Conditions at Vela Baja are perfect for all types of kiting. For launching and landing there is a wide, sandy and uncrowded beach that stretches for several miles in both directions. The wind usually fills in around mid-morning and blows until late afternoon. Winds vary from a steady breeze to very strong with a typical windy day ranging 18 to 23 knots. The side-shore winds from the left ensure there is ample space for all kiters. When a strong “El Norte” blows, sizable swells can build, giving great conditions for kitesurf style riders.

Is kiteboarding safe?

Your safety is our primary concern and we provide a constant safety watch and rescue service for our kiting customers. Furthermore the location is fundamentally safe for the following reasons:

  • There are no strong tides or currents.
  • There are no submerged hazards.
  • The shape of the bay and wind direction enable easy self rescue.
  • The majority of the beach is wide, sandy and free of obstacles.
  • The beach is far from roads and traffic.

What will I learn in my first lesson?

Your first lesson will usually cover:

  • Basic kite control on land.
  • Understanding wind direction and safety zones.
  • Body dragging in the water.

How many lessons do I need to start riding?

It typically takes 3–5 lessons to confidently start riding on the board, depending on your learning pace.

Do I need to bring my own gear?

No, kiteboarding schools provide all the necessary equipment, including the kite, board, harness, and safety gear.

What is the best time of year to kiteboard in Los Barriles?

The best kiteboarding conditions are typically from November to March, when consistent winds from the North provide ideal conditions. That is why we offer lessons 7 days a week from November 15 to March 20.

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