Frequently Asked
Questions

Most beginners reach independent riding level in 6–10 hours over 3–5 days. The Discovery Course (2h) teaches kite control on the beach and your first body drag. The Full Beginner Course (6h, 3 days) gets you to first water rides. The Independent Rider Course (10h, 5 days) makes you fully independent — upwind, downwind, self-rescue.

No experience needed. The Discovery Course starts from absolute zero — wind theory, kite anatomy, safety systems, and your first body drag in the water. Basic comfort in water is enough. We have taught complete beginners from age 12 to 65.

Private (1:1) — 100% instructor attention, you progress noticeably faster. Best if you want to complete a course in minimum days.
Group (2:1) — more affordable, ideal if you are learning with a friend. Same IKO curriculum, equipment, and certification. Both options available for all courses.

Fastest way: WhatsApp +66 96 720 3910 — tell us your dates, level, and activity. We confirm availability and send details within a few hours. No deposit required for small groups. We confirm 24h before each session. You can also email kiteclubkohphangan@gmail.com.

During peak season (mid-January–April) we recommend booking 3–5 days ahead as instructor slots fill up. January, February, and the SW season (June–Oct) are less crowded — same-day or next-day booking is usually possible. Message us on WhatsApp to check.

Absolutely. Your IKO level is recorded and you can continue from where you left off at any IKO school worldwide. Many students do the Discovery Course on one trip and the Beginner Course on their next visit. There is no time limit.

Peak season is mid-January–April (SE trade winds, typically 10–22 kts, flat water at Thong Sala Beach). March is the strongest month. A second season runs June–October (SW monsoon, variable 10–22 kts). October–November are off-season with light, variable winds.

We monitor the forecast daily and reschedule at no extra charge if conditions are not suitable for safe learning. We contact you the evening before each lesson. During peak SE season (February–April) extended windless periods are rare. We have run lessons every week during peak season for years.

For beginner lessons we need a minimum of 12–14 knots sustained. Ideal is 15–22 knots. Discovery and Beginner courses work best in lighter 15–18 kts winds — less intimidating for new students. Pro and foil lessons can work in lighter wind too.

Thong Sala Beach is a flat-water lagoon during the SE season — ideal for learning. The SW season brings some chop. The beach is sheltered from ocean swell by the island's geography, making it one of the safest and most comfortable spots in Thailand for beginner lessons.

Kitesurfing carries risks like any action sport, but with IKO-certified instruction and modern safety equipment those risks are very well managed. All kites have quick-release safety systems. We teach in a flat water lagoon away from boat traffic. All beginners wear helmets and impact vests. Our instructors monitor all students throughout every session.

Everything is included in the lesson price: kite, bar & lines, board, harness, helmet, impact vest. Lessons also include radio-coaching helmet for water sessions, beach safety cover, and liability insurance. You only need to bring swimwear and waterproof sunscreen. Rash guards are recommended.

You need to be comfortable in open water — you don't need to be a strong swimmer. All students wear impact vests (buoyancy) during water sessions. The lagoon at Thong Sala is shallow close to shore and instructors are present throughout all water sessions.

Yes. Students from age 12 can start kitesurfing with parental consent. Children 8–11 can try a trainer kite session on the beach. We adapt pace and equipment to the student's size and physical ability. Parental presence is required for students under 18.

Kitesurfing uses a large kite on a bar connected to a harness — maximum power, speed, and jump potential.
Wing foil uses a handheld inflatable wing — simpler to set up, works in lighter wind (12+ kts), no harness or lines. Many kiters transition to wing foil for its ease and versatility. Wing foil is generally faster to learn water starts.

Yes. Wing foil: IWO-certified — Intro lesson 4,000 THB · Beginner Course 12,000 THB · Independent Course 18,000 THB.
Windsurfing: certified-certified — Discovery 4,000 THB · Beginner 11,000 THB · Independent 18,000 THB.
E-Foil (electric foilboard): Intro 30 min 2,000 THB · 1h lesson 3,500 THB (repeat 3,000) · Freedom 5h package 13,000 THB.

IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization) — global standard for kitesurf and windsurf certification. IWO (International Wingfoil Organization) — equivalent for wing foil. Both certifications record your progression level and are recognised at schools worldwide. You can start here and continue anywhere.