Chumphon, a province in southern Thailand, may not be as popular as Phuket or Koh Samui, but it has become a go-to destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts. With its pristine beaches, warm waters, and consistent winds, Chumphon offers a unique and exciting kitesurfing experience. Here are some of the best kitesurfing spots in Chumphon.
Read more: Kitesurfing Spots at Pak Nam Pran Beach, Thailand
Thung Wua Laen Beach
Thung Wua Laen Beach is perhaps the most popular kitesurfing spot in Chumphon. This 12-kilometer stretch of white sand beach boasts crystal-clear waters and steady winds throughout the year. The wind direction is usually side-onshore, making it perfect for beginners and advanced riders. The beach is also wide and uncrowded, providing ample space for kite launching and landing.
Beach at Bang Son
Bang Son Beach is another kitesurfing spot in Chumphon that’s worth checking out. Located just 15 minutes away from Thung Wua Laen Beach, Bang Son Beach offers similar wind conditions and a quieter atmosphere. The beach has a more relaxed vibe, with fewer tourists and more local kiteboarders. The water can get choppy during high tide, but the consistent wind makes it a great spot for freestyle and wave riding.
The beach at Sai Ree
Sai Ree Beach is a hidden gem in Chumphon that’s perfect for kiteboarding. This secluded beach is located in a bay, creating a sheltered and flat-water environment. The wind is usually onshore and consistent, providing excellent conditions for beginners and freestyle riders. The beach is quiet and peaceful, with only a few resorts and restaurants nearby.
Beach Thung Makham Noi
Thung Makham Noi Beach is a lesser-known kitesurfing spot in Chumphon that’s perfect for advanced riders. The beach is located on the east coast of Chumphon and is exposed to the strong wind from the Gulf of Thailand. The water can get rough and choppy, creating challenging conditions for wave riding and jumping. However, the strong wind makes it a great spot for kiteboarding and downwinders.
Other Considerations
When planning a kitesurfing trip to Chumphon, it’s essential to consider the weather and wind conditions. The best time to visit is from December to March, when the wind is usually stronger and more consistent. During this time, the wind speed can reach up to 20 knots, creating perfect conditions for kiteboarding.
It’s also essential to check the tidal conditions before heading out to sea. Chumphon’s beaches are affected by the tides, and the water level can change significantly throughout the day. It’s best to kite during mid-to-high tide, as the water is deeper and safer for launching and landing.
In Conclusion
Chumphon may not be the most well-known kitesurfing destination in Thailand, but it offers some of the best kitesurfing spots in the country. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced rider, there’s a spot in Chumphon that’s perfect for you. With its consistent winds, warm waters, and stunning beaches, Chumphon is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by kiteboarding enthusiasts.
