What are my best moments in kitesurfing?

Since 2018, I’ve been riding the waves with the kitesurfing crew. Over the years, I’ve had some unforgettable moments on the water. Sure, every session, trip, and friend has been fantastic, but let’s be real: some moments are just better than others.

In my opinion, the best kitesurfing sessions are the ones spent with your kitesurf buddies. They’re the ones who cheer you on whether you land an easy trick or finally nail that impossible move. They celebrate your victories and have mercy over your wipeouts, making every session a blast.

Joining a kitesurf club can also be a game-changer. It’s where you make friends easily and feel like everyone’s got each other’s backs. Not every club is created equal, but when you find the right one, hold onto it tight.

I can’t rank my moments in a top ten list, but here are a few of my absolute favorites:

First time riding upwind

We all remember the struggle of trying to ride upwind when we first start. I can’t count the number of times I had to walk back upwind because I couldn’t make it. But then came the glorious day when everything clicked. I glided across the water and came back to the same spot—no more walking! That day, I felt like a kitesurfing pro. Sunny skies, perfect conditions at my local spot in Katwijk—I still savor that feeling.

First kitesurf trip

Your first kite trip is one you never forget. Packing up your board bag and feeling like a cool person at the airport with all your gear is a high point. My first kitesurf trip was a downwinder progression camp in Brazil. Talk about an epic start! Brazil’s weather, food, and conditions were out of this world. I kited for hours every day, and my skills skyrocketed. I can’t wait to go back to Brazil for more!

Me in Brazil

Kiting in paradise

Hawaii, Maui—now that’s a dream come true. If you’re heading to any spot where you want to rent gear, make sure you have some kind of certification. Many places won’t rent you gear without it. I didn’t have a certification and almost missed out. Luckily, the shop owner made an exception for a little extra cash. And wow, am I glad I didn’t miss out! I had epic sessions, landed my first one-footer jump, and rode with rainbows, turtles, and stunning views of Maui. It was pure paradise.

Downwinders

Downwinders are the ultimate joyrides. Nothing beats a session where you can focus on tricks without the hassle of constant upwind battles. My first downwinder was a bit of a fiasco—rushing to keep up with faster riders wasn’t exactly fun. But my top downwinder was in Cape Town, from Big Bay to Haakgat. Sunset, great company, and amazing conditions made it unforgettable.

In the mother city

Cape Town—aka The Mother City—is simply incredible. It has an energy like no other place. On non-windy days, there’s no shortage of things to do. And the kiting? Unmatched. But don’t stop there; explore places like Langebaan, Hermanus, and Witsand. As a kiter, you owe it to yourself to experience these spots. It’s no wonder so many kiters love hanging out here. I absolutely love this place and will return as many times as possible.

Table Mountain at sunset

Here’s to many more amazing moments ahead. After all, you never know what a session might turn into!

xox Berit