Essaouira Beach

#Overview

Essaouira Beach stretches for approximately 10 kilometers along Morocco's central Atlantic coast, forming a magnificent arc of golden sand backed by one of North Africa's most charming walled coastal cities. This expansive beach, framed by the 18th-century ramparts of Essaouira's medina to the north and the sandy dunes extending south toward the village of Diabat, offers a unique combination of natural beauty, consistent wind conditions perfect for water sports, and deep historical and cultural significance.

Known historically as Mogador, Essaouira has served as an important port for millennia, with evidence of Phoenician, Roman, Portuguese, and French presence. The beach itself has witnessed centuries of maritime trade, fishing traditions, and more recently, has evolved into one of Morocco's premier destinations for windsurfing and kitesurfing while maintaining its authentic character and relaxed atmosphere.

The beach's defining characteristic is its nearly constant wind—the result of geographic and meteorological factors that make Essaouira one of Africa's windiest coastal cities. While this persistent breeze historically limited tourism development compared to sheltered beaches like Agadir, it has transformed Essaouira into a world-renowned wind sports destination and created a unique coastal ecosystem and microclimate.

#Location and Geography

Geographic Position

• Coordinates: 31.5084°N, 9.7595°W
• Province: Essaouira Province, Marrakech-Safi region
• Distance from Major Cities:
• Marrakech: 175 km east (2.5-3 hours)
• Agadir: 170 km south (2.5 hours)
• Casablanca: 370 km northeast (4-5 hours)
• Safi: 130 km north (1.5-2 hours)

Beach Dimensions and Characteristics

Main Beach (North Section):

• Length: Approximately 3 km from medina walls to south
• Width: 100-200 meters (varies with tide)
• Orientation: Northeast to southwest
• Sand Type: Fine to medium golden sand
• Tidal Range: Moderate (2-3 meters)

Southern Extension:

• Length: Additional 7 km to Diabat and beyond
• Width: Variable, wider in southern sections
• Characteristics: More remote, natural dunes
• Access: Walking, camel rides, horse riding

Offshore Features:

• Mogador Island (Île de Mogador): Historic island ~1.5 km offshore
• Rocky Outcrops: Scattered along coast, especially north
• Sand Bars: Shallow areas exposed at low tide
• Purple Islands: Small rocky islets, protected bird sanctuary

Coastal Topography

Beach Profile:

• Gently sloping foreshore
• Wide intertidal zone
• Firm sand suitable for walking, sports
• Backed by low dunes and development

Dune Systems:

• Active dunes south of main beach
• Vegetation-stabilized sections
• Some erosion concerns in areas
• Protected zones further south

Medina Backdrop:

• 18th-century Portuguese-style ramparts
• Picturesque fortifications
• Distinctive architecture
• UNESCO World Heritage Site (medina)

#Climate and Weather

General Climate Pattern

Essaouira experiences a unique Mediterranean-oceanic climate strongly moderated by Atlantic influences:

Key Characteristics:

• Cool summers (unlike interior Morocco)
• Mild winters
• Nearly constant wind (especially afternoon)
• Moderate rainfall (winter months)
• High humidity
• Fog and mist common (morning)
• Minimal temperature extremes

Seasonal Patterns

Spring (March-May):

• Temperature: 15-22°C
• Wind: Strong, consistent
• Weather: Generally pleasant
• Rain: Decreasing from winter
• Tourism: Moderate, windsurfers arriving
• Sea Temperature: 15-17°C (cold)

Summer (June-August):

• Temperature: 20-26°C (remarkably cool for Morocco)
• Wind: Very strong, peak season for wind sports
• Weather: Often foggy mornings, clearing to sun
• Rain: Minimal to none
• Tourism: Peak season, busy
• Sea Temperature: 17-20°C (refreshing to cold)

Autumn (September-November):

• Temperature: 18-24°C
• Wind: Strong but less intense than summer
• Weather: Generally excellent
• Rain: Increasing toward November
• Tourism: Excellent season, fewer crowds
• Sea Temperature: 18-20°C

Winter (December-February):

• Temperature: 12-18°C
• Wind: Variable, can be strong
• Weather: More rainy periods
• Rain: Most precipitation this season (300-400mm annually total)
• Tourism: Quiet season, local atmosphere
• Sea Temperature: 16-17°C

Wind Conditions

The Trade Winds:

Essaouira's defining meteorological feature:

Origin:

• Interaction between Azores High and Saharan Low
• Accelerated by topography
• Consistent northeast to north winds
• Thermal effects from temperature gradients

Characteristics:

• Average Speed: 20-30 knots (37-56 km/h)
• Peak Season: March-September
• Daily Pattern: Light morning, building afternoon, decreasing evening
• Strongest: June-August (often 25-40+ knots)
• Direction: Predominantly onshore (northeast)
• Consistency: Extremely reliable

Impact on Beach Experience:

• Cooler perceived temperature
• Sand blowing (can be uncomfortable)
• Perfect for wind sports
• Challenging for sunbathing
• Creates unique atmosphere
• Limits swimming comfort for some

Local Name:

• "Alizée" (French for trade wind)
• Locals have adapted lifestyle around wind
• Architecture designed for wind (narrow streets, sheltered courtyards)

#Marine Environment

Ocean Characteristics

Atlantic Waters:

• Cool Canary Current influences temperature
• Nutrient-rich upwelling zone
• Abundant marine life
• Strong currents in places
• Powerful Atlantic swell

Surf Conditions:

• Consistent swell year-round
• Beach breaks along most of beach
• Point breaks at select locations
• Better quality in autumn/winter
• Can be big and powerful

Water Quality:

• Generally good, monitored
• Some concerns near port (north end)
• Cleaner in southern sections
• EU Blue Flag status sought
• Occasional pollution events

Tides:

• Semi-diurnal (two highs, two lows per day)
• Range: 2-3 meters typical
• Spring tides can be larger
• Affects beach width significantly
• Important for wind sports (flat water at low tide)

Marine Biodiversity

Fish Species: Abundant and diverse due to upwelling:

• Sardines (historically important fishery)
• Sea bass and sea bream
• Sole and other flatfish
• Occasional tuna and larger species
• Supports local fishing industry

Seabirds:

• Yellow-legged Gull (resident)
• Shearwaters (passage migrants)
• Sandwich Tern
• Cory's Shearwater
• Audouin's Gull (rare)
• Purple Islands protect nesting Eleonora's Falcon

Marine Mammals:

• Dolphins occasionally visible offshore
• Harbor porpoise in deeper waters
• Very rare whale sightings

Intertidal Life:

• Mussels, limpets, barnacles on rocks
• Crabs in rocky areas
• Sand-dwelling invertebrates
• Important for shorebirds feeding

#History and Cultural Significance

Ancient History

Phoenician Period (7th-6th centuries BCE):

• Trading post established
• Purple dye production (murex shells)
• Archaeological evidence on Mogador Island
• Strategic maritime location

Roman Period:

• Continued as trading outpost
• Purple dye industry continued
• Connection to Mauretania Tingitana
• Limited archaeological remains

Medieval and Early Modern

Portuguese Influence (16th century):

• Brief occupation
• Fortification beginnings
• Trade in sugar and horses
• Eventually abandoned

French Captives:

• Numerous shipwrecks in area
• Captives held for ransom
• Legendary tales of shipwrecked sailors

The Creation of Modern Essaouira (18th Century)

Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah (1760s):

• Commissioned French architect Théodore Cornut
• Built planned city with European influences
• Developed as royal port
• Attracted international merchants
• Jewish community flourished

Port Development:

• Important trade hub
• Export of goods from interior
• Sugar, leather, wool, ostrich feathers
• Decline with French protectorate (Casablanca favored)

20th Century Evolution

French Protectorate Era:

• Tourism beginnings
• Orson Welles filmed "Othello" (1949-1951)
• Gradual modernization
• Maintained historical character

Hippie Era (1960s-1970s):

• Discovered by counterculture travelers
• Jimi Hendrix visited (1969)
• Bob Marley influenced by time in Morocco
• Bohemian atmosphere developed
• Affordable, relaxed lifestyle

Modern Renaissance (1990s-Present):

• UNESCO World Heritage designation (2001)
• Gnawa World Music Festival established (1998)
• Wind sports destination recognition
• Boutique hotel development
• International cultural hub
• Sustainable tourism focus

Cultural Traditions

Gnawa Music:

• Spiritual trance music tradition
• West African origins (descendants of slaves)
• Annual festival attracts world musicians
• Integral to city's identity
• Evening performances common

Fishing Heritage:

• Traditional blue fishing boats (many)
• Sardine fleet historically important
• Daily fish auction at port
• Traditional fishing techniques
• Connection to sea remains strong

Crafts:

• Thuya wood (endemic tree) crafts
• Marquetry and inlay work
• Jewelry (especially silver)
• Carpets and textiles
• Leather goods
• Art galleries numerous

Cuisine:

• Fresh seafood emphasis
• Grilled sardines specialty
• Tagines with fish
• Portuguese-influenced dishes
• Fresh orange juice ubiquitous

#Beach Activities

Swimming

Conditions:

• Water Temperature: 15-20°C year-round (refreshing to cold)
• Waves: Can be significant, body surfing possible
• Currents: Present, some areas stronger
• Safety: Lifeguards present in summer (main beach)
• Best Conditions: Morning before wind builds, low wind days

Suitability:

• Better for confident swimmers
• Children supervised closely
• Wetsuits recommended (water cold)
• Less ideal than sheltered beaches for pure swimming
• More about experiencing Atlantic than comfortable bathing

Windsurfing

World-Class Destination:

Essaouira ranks among top windsurfing locations globally:

Conditions:

• Wind: Incredibly consistent, side-shore
• Season: Year-round, best March-September
• Skill Levels: Beginners to advanced
• Flat Water: At low tide in bay
• Wave Sailing: Outside the bay
• Best Spots:
• Main beach: Beginners, flat water
• Safi Road (south): Wave sailing
• Moulay Bouzerktoun (south): Experts

Facilities:

• Multiple windsurfing schools
• Equipment rental widely available
• Quality instruction (English, French, etc.)
• Repair services
• Storage facilities

Schools and Costs:

• Beginner courses: 300-500 MAD per 2-hour session
• Week packages: 1,500-3,000 MAD
• Equipment rental: 200-400 MAD per day
• Experienced instructors
• Good equipment standards

Kitesurfing

Growing Sport:

Increasingly popular, though more challenging to learn here:

Conditions:

• Strong consistent wind
• Space for kiting (southern beach)
• Can be crowded peak season
• Big waves outside bay
• Challenging for beginners (wind strength)

Facilities:

• Several kite schools
• Equipment rental
• Instruction available
• Designated zones (safety)

Best Locations:

• South of main beach (more space)
• Sidi Kaouki (20 km south, better for learning)
• Advanced kiters on main beach

Costs:

• Beginner courses: 400-600 MAD per session
• Week packages: 2,000-4,000 MAD
• Equipment rental: 300-500 MAD per day

Surfing

Wave Conditions:

• Consistent Atlantic swell
• Beach breaks most of beach
• Point breaks in specific areas
• Better quality autumn/winter
• Can get large (3-4m faces)

Skill Requirements:

• Intermediate to advanced better
• Beginners possible smaller days
• Powerful waves require respect
• Rip currents in places

Facilities:

• Surf schools available
• Board rental (100-200 MAD/day)
• Wetsuit essential (included in rentals)
• Surf camps in area

Best Spots:

• Diabat (south) - point break
• Sidi Kaouki - excellent surf beach
• Main beach - beach breaks

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Emerging Activity:

• Calmer morning conditions
• Flat water at low tide
• Rentals available
• Instruction offered
• Good core workout
• Nice way to explore bay

Beach Sports and Recreation

Football (Soccer):

• Constant games on beach
• Locals welcoming to visitors joining
• Particularly afternoon/evening
• All skill levels
• Social experience

Beach Volleyball:

• Nets sometimes set up
• Casual games
• More touristy activity

Jogging and Walking:

• Excellent firm sand
• Popular morning activity
• Can walk for kilometers
• Beautiful scenery
• Refreshing ocean breeze

Camel and Horse Riding:

• Available for hire on beach
• Typically 100-200 MAD per hour
• Sunset rides popular
• Can go to Diabat ruins
• Negotiate price clearly

Quad Biking:

• Tours available to dunes
• 1-2 hour excursions
• 300-500 MAD per person
• Environmental concerns
• Fun but controversial

Fishing

Shore Fishing:

• Local hobby
• Various species catchable
• Permit technically required (rarely enforced)
• Gear available in town
• Traditional methods

Boat Fishing:

• Charter boats available
• Half-day or full-day trips
• Deep sea fishing
• 800-1,500 MAD per person
• Tuna, dorado, other species

#Visitor Facilities

Beach Amenities

Main Beach (North Section):

• Showers: Public showers available (small fee)
• Toilets: Public facilities near medina (5-10 MAD)
• Changing: Limited, many change at accommodation
• Lifeguards: Present during summer season (June-September)
• Sunbeds: Some cafes provide with purchase
• Umbrellas: Wind makes impractical, wind shelters better

Cafes and Restaurants: Numerous beachfront options:

• Fresh seafood grills
• Salads and tagines
• Drinks and snacks
• Prices: 50-150 MAD for meal
• Quality varies
• Sunset views

Beach Clubs: Limited compared to other beaches:

• Few formal beach clubs
• Some cafes function similarly
• More casual atmosphere
• Emphasis on wind sports

Accommodation

Beachfront Hotels:

• Budget: 200-400 MAD per night (basic rooms)
• Mid-Range: 400-800 MAD (comfortable with some sea views)
• Upper Mid: 800-1,500 MAD (quality hotels, often with character)
• Luxury: 1,500-4,000+ MAD (riads, boutique hotels, some beachfront)

Popular Areas:

• Medina riads (walking distance to beach)
• Beachfront hotels (immediate access)
• South of medina (quieter, still close)

Booking:

• Advance booking recommended high season (June-August)
• Good deals off-season
• Many charming riads in medina (5-10 minute walk to beach)

Getting There and Around

From Marrakech (175 km):

• Bus: CTM and Supratours, 3 hours, 80-100 MAD
• Shared Taxi: 100-150 MAD per person, 2.5 hours
• Private Taxi: 800-1,200 MAD for vehicle, flexible
• Rental Car: 2.5-3 hours, good road

From Agadir (170 km):

• Bus: Multiple daily, 3 hours, 80-100 MAD
• Shared Taxi: Available, 100-150 MAD
• Private Transfer: 800-1,200 MAD

From Casablanca:

• Bus: 5-6 hours, 120-150 MAD
• Train to Marrakech + Bus: Alternative route
• Rental Car: Most flexible

In Essaouira:

• Walking: Medina and beach walkable
• Petit Taxis: Around town, 10-30 MAD
• Bicycle Rental: 50-100 MAD per day, good option
• Scooter Rental: 150-250 MAD per day

Services

Wind Sports Equipment:

• Multiple rental shops
• Schools with equipment included
• Good quality generally
• Repairs available

Medical:

• Pharmacy in medina
• Small hospital
• Private doctors
• Serious cases to Marrakech or Agadir

Money:

• ATMs in medina
• Exchange offices
• Many places accept cards
• Cash still important

Safety:

• Generally very safe
• Normal precautions
• Beach relatively safe
• Mind belongings

#Best Times to Visit

For Wind Sports (Windsurfing/Kitesurfing):

• Optimal: June-August (strongest, most consistent wind)
• Excellent: April-May, September (strong wind, fewer crowds)
• Good: March, October (variable but often good)
• Possible: November-February (less consistent)

For Swimming and Relaxation:

• Best: September-October (warmest water, less wind)
• Good: May-June (before peak wind, pleasant weather)
• Acceptable: July-August (wind makes sunbathing challenging)
• Avoid: December-February (coldest water, rougher conditions)

For Surf:

• Best: October-March (larger swells, better quality)
• Good: September, April (transitional swells)
• Summer: Smaller, less consistent

For Cultural Experience:

• Gnawa Festival: Usually late June (exact dates vary)
• Off-Season: November-March (authentic local atmosphere, fewer tourists)
• Year-Round: Music, art, crafts always present

For Photography:

• Golden Light: Year-round (low sun angle, golden sand)
• Dramatic Weather: Winter storms, moody skies
• Blue Skies: Summer (though often morning fog)
• Cultural Scenes: Year-round

Crowd Levels:

• Most Crowded: July-August, Gnawa Festival weekend
• Moderately Busy: June, September
• Quieter: May, October
• Quiet: November-April

#Nearby Attractions

Within Essaouira

Medina:

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Portuguese fortifications
• Souks (markets)
• Art galleries
• Gnawa music venues
• Excellent restaurants

Skala de la Ville (Sea Bastion):

• Historic ramparts
• Cannon emplacements
• "Othello" film location
• Spectacular views
• Sunset spot

Port:

• Active fishing harbor
• Blue fishing boats
• Daily fish auction
• Seafood grills
• Shipbuilding

Cooperative d'Argan:

• Women's argan oil cooperative
• Production demonstrations
• Quality products
• Fair trade practices

Day Trips from Essaouira

Diabat Village (3 km south):

• Former hippie hangout
• Ruins of Borj el Baroud (palace ruins)
• Jimi Hendrix connection
• Beach and dunes
• Walking, camel, or horse riding access

Sidi Kaouki (20 km south):

• Laid-back surf village
• Excellent beach
• Better wind conditions for learning kiting
• Surf and yoga retreats
• Day trip or overnight

Paradise Valley / Imouzzer (60 km):

• Mountain waterfall area
• Palm groves
• Natural pools
• Honey villages
• Full day trip

Atlas Mountain Villages:

• Day trips to High Atlas foothills
• Berber villages
• Argan forests
• Scenic landscapes

Île de Mogador:

• Historic island offshore
• Protected bird sanctuary
• Eleonora's Falcon breeding site
• Archaeological sites
• Visits sometimes possible (permit required, limited access)

Extended Trips

Marrakech (175 km):

• Easy connection
• Many combine both cities
• 3-4 days ideal (2 each destination)
• Contrasting experiences

Agadir (170 km):

• Resort beach city
• Different atmosphere
• Sheltered swimming
• Water sports
• Family-friendly

Atlantic Coast Circuit:

• Combine multiple beaches
• Essaouira → Sidi Kaouki → Agadir → Taghazout
• Week-long itinerary
• Beach variety

#Environmental and Cultural Considerations

Environmental Challenges

Beach Erosion:

• Ongoing concern in some sections
• Wind and wave action
• Development impacts
• Management efforts needed

Pollution:

• Port area concerns
• Plastic waste issues
• Improving with awareness
• Beach cleanups organized

Dune Degradation:

• Quad bike impacts
• Foot traffic in sensitive areas
• Vegetation loss
• Protection measures increasing

Water Quality:

• Generally good
• Occasional sewage concerns
• Monitoring important
• Treatment systems improving

Conservation Efforts

Protected Areas:

• Purple Islands (Îles Purpuraires) - nature reserve
• Nesting seabird protection
• Access restricted

Beach Management:

• Cleanliness improvements
• Plastic reduction campaigns
• Sustainable tourism initiatives

Community Projects:

• Women's cooperatives (argan, crafts)
• Youth programs
• Environmental education
• Cultural preservation

Responsible Tourism

Best Practices:

• Take all trash with you
• Respect protected areas
• Support local businesses
• Learn some Arabic/French phrases
• Dress appropriately (beach acceptable, cover up in town)
• Don't disturb fishing activities
• Choose eco-friendly accommodations
• Use reusable water bottles
• Respect local customs and prayer times

Cultural Sensitivity:

• Modest dress when not on beach
• Ask permission for photographs
• Respect religious sites
• Don't photograph military installations
• Bargain fairly in souks
• Tip appropriately (10-15% restaurants)

Supporting Local Economy:

• Buy from local artisans
• Eat at local restaurants
• Hire local guides
• Stay in locally-owned accommodations
• Learn about crafts and traditions

#Safety and Practical Considerations

Ocean Safety

Swimming:

• Heed warning flags (when present)
• Strong currents possible
• Avoid after storms
• Don't swim alone
• Supervise children closely
• Respect your abilities

Wind Sports:

• Take lessons if beginner
• Check equipment thoroughly
• Know your limits
• Be aware of other beach users
• Understand right-of-way rules
• Wear appropriate safety gear

Sun Protection:

• Very strong UV even on cloudy days
• Wind makes you feel cooler (burn risk)
• SPF 50+ sunscreen essential
• Reapply frequently
• Hat and sunglasses
• Lip balm with SPF

Beach Safety

Theft:

• Don't leave valuables on beach
• Use waterproof pouches for essentials
• Hotel safes for important items
• Watch belongings when swimming

Wind Hazards:

• Secure belongings (can blow away)
• Protect eyes from blowing sand
• Sunglasses essential
• Wind can chill (bring layer)

Health:

• Stay hydrated
• Avoid midday sun
• Wear sandals (hot sand, occasional debris)
• Shower after swimming (rinse saltwater)

General Safety

Crime:

• Essaouira very safe generally
• Normal precautions sufficient
• Some persistent vendors (polite refusal)
• Medina safe day and night

Scams:

• Minimal compared to larger cities
• Some overcharging attempts (tourists)
• Agree prices in advance
• Don't feel obligated to guides

Emergency Contacts:

• Police: 19
• Ambulance: 15
• Tourist Police: +212 5244-78429
• Pharmacy: Multiple in medina

#Comparison with Other Moroccan Beaches

vs. Agadir:

• Essaouira: Windy, authentic, historic city
• Agadir: Sheltered, resort-style, modern, family-friendly
• Essaouira: Better for wind sports, culture
• Agadir: Better for sunbathing, swimming

vs. Taghazout:

• Essaouira: City beach, more facilities, wind sports
• Taghazout: Surf village, laid-back, better surf
• Essaouira: More cultural attractions
• Taghazout: More bohemian, focused on surf/yoga

vs. Oualidia:

• Essaouira: Open Atlantic, windy
• Oualidia: Protected lagoon, calm water
• Essaouira: Larger town, more activities
• Oualidia: Smaller, oysters, peaceful

#Conclusion

Essaouira Beach represents a unique synthesis of natural beauty, historical significance, and contemporary water sports culture. Unlike typical resort beaches designed primarily for sunbathing and calm swimming, Essaouira offers something different: an authentic Moroccan coastal city where the beach serves as both a working waterfront and a playground for wind sport enthusiasts from around the world.

The persistent trade winds that once made Essaouira less attractive for conventional beach tourism have transformed it into one of the world's premier windsurfing destinations, while the charming UNESCO-protected medina provides a rich cultural experience unavailable at purpose-built resort beaches. The combination creates a destination that appeals to active travelers, culture seekers, and those looking for authentic Morocco rather than anonymous resort experiences.

For visitors who embrace the wind rather than fight it, who appreciate the invigorating Atlantic over tepid pool-like water, and who want their beach time accompanied by art, music, and history, Essaouira Beach offers an unparalleled experience. The beach isn't about passive relaxation but active engagement—with the elements, the culture, and the vibrant life of this special place.

Whether carving across the water on a windsurfer, watching blue fishing boats bob in the harbor, exploring the historic medina's labyrinthine alleys, or simply walking the seemingly endless sands toward the southern dunes, Essaouira Beach and its surrounding city reward those who seek experiences beyond conventional beach holidays. It's a place where Morocco's rich past meets its dynamic present, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean's timeless power.

#Practical Summary

Location: Central Atlantic coast, 175 km west of Marrakech Beach Length: 10+ km total (3 km main section) Best For: Windsurfing, kitesurfing, culture, authentic Morocco Best Season: Year-round; April-September for wind sports Water Temperature: 15-20°C (wetsuit recommended) Accommodation: Wide range, 200-4,000+ MAD per night Access: Easy bus/taxi from Marrakech, Agadir Typical Visit: 2-4 days ideal (1-2 days minimum) Crowd Level: Moderate to busy (July-August), quieter off-season Safety: Very safe, normal precautions Key Highlight: Consistent wind + historic city + authentic atmosphere

Essential Items:

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Sunglasses
• Hat or head covering
• Light jacket (wind chill)
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Camera
• Reusable water bottle

GPS Coordinates: 31.5084°N, 9.7595°W

Tourist Office: Avenue du Caire, Essaouira (+212 5244-78352)

Wind Sports Schools (selection):

• Ocean Vagabond
• Explora
• Magic Fun Africa
• ION CLUB Essaouira

Pro Tips:

• Morning best for relaxed beach time (before wind builds)
• Book accommodation in medina (5-10 min walk to beach, more atmosphere)
• Try fresh grilled fish at port
• Explore medina galleries and workshops
• Attend Gnawa music performance
• Combine beach and culture time
• Visit Sidi Kaouki for less wind if learning kiting
• Pack layers for evening (can be cool)
• Bring windbreak for beach relaxation
• Best value off-season (November-March except holidays)