Every question answered — courses, wind, safety, IKO certification, and prices.
Most beginners reach independent riding level in 6-10 hours over 3-5 days. The Discovery Course (2h) covers kite control. The Beginner Course (6h) gets you to first water rides. The Independent Rider Course (10h) makes you fully self-sufficient: upwind riding, self-rescue, launching alone.
The minimum age is 12 with parental consent. There is no upper age limit. Children 8-11 can try a trainer kite session on the beach. Physical fitness matters more than age.
Yes — you must be comfortable in open water. You will wear an impact vest which adds buoyancy. All beginner sessions take place in waist-to-chest deep water at Thong Sala Beach.
The Beginner Course (11,000 THB, 6h) ends when you can ride downwind. The Independent Rider Course (18,000 THB, 10h) adds upwind riding, water re-launches, self-rescue, and IKO Level 3 — the standard required for equipment rental worldwide.
All equipment is included: kite, bar, board, harness, helmet, and impact vest. We use modern Cabrinha and Eleveight kites. You only need swimwear and sunscreen.
IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization) is the global certification standard. You receive a digital IKO card at the end of the Beginner Course (Levels 1-2) and the Independent Rider Course (Level 3). Level 3 is the standard required to rent kites independently worldwide.
Modern kite safety systems make beginner kitesurfing very manageable. Every kite has a quick-release that instantly depowers it. We teach in a flat-water lagoon away from obstacles. All beginners wear helmets and impact vests.
12-25 knots is the ideal learning range. At Thong Sala Beach the main season (January-April) typically produces 14-22 knots. Below 10 knots there is not enough power. Above 25 knots we do not take beginners in the water.
Yes. IKO certification is recognised worldwide. If you started at Level 1 at another school, we continue from exactly where you left off. Bring your IKO card or member number.
WhatsApp is fastest: +66 96 720 3910. Tell us your dates, experience level, and whether you prefer private or group. We confirm within a few hours. No deposit required.
February, March, and April are ideal: consistent 16-22 knot SE trade winds, flat water, stable forecasts. January is very good too. June-October is the second season with SW winds.
Yes. IKO Level 3 (Independent Rider) is the standard qualification for kite rental. We offer complete kite rental sets at Thong Sala Beach.
Ready to Start?
Questions answered. Time to get on the water.
Kite Club Koh Phangan · Thong Sala Beach · WhatsApp +66 96 720 3910