7 Worldwide Windsurfing Destinations You Need to See

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A breezy day doesn’t have to be the end of your beach-going adventure. Toss the chairs and umbrella back in the car and whip out the sailboard for a little windsurfing. If you’re looking for a great place to test the waters, here are the best windsurfing destinations in the world.

Wellington, New Zealand
When it comes to windsurfing, the more wind the better. That’s why Wellington, one of the windiest cities in the world, makes for an excellent windsurfing spot. It’s also a decently sized city, meaning you’ll have plenty to keep you busy during the rare moments you’re not on the water. The average wind speed throughout the year is 20 mph, with gusts around 50 mph.

Island of Tiree, Hebrides
The Tiree Wave Classic is held on the Island of Tiree every October. It’s the premier windsurfing spot in the UK and maybe all of Europe. It’s also one of the sunniest cities in a country known for its somewhat dreary weather. Book a plane to Scotland and it’s only a short trip off western shoreline.

Maui, Hawaii
If there were such thing as a windsurfer Heaven, it would look exactly like Maui. It’s awesome enough already being in Hawaii, but it also boasts the title of being home to some of the top windsurfing professionals in the sport. You shouldn’t have any problem finding someone to show you the ropes around here. Did we mention it’s in Hawaii? One of the most beautiful places on Earth?

Mui Ne, Vietnam
Mui Ne has a lot going for it outside of being the top windsurfing destination in southeast Asia. The tiny fishing village is surrounded by enormous sand dunes, so you’ll have a blast riding around the area on quad bikes and sandboarding when you’re not enjoying the gnarly crosswinds.

Lac Bay, Bonaire
Lac Bay serves as the perfect place to work your way up the ranks in windsurfing. The warm, year-round 80-degree temperatures of the Caribbean island and calm waters are perfect for beginners. The more experience you gain the further you can move out from the bay for more challenging waves. Beyond the reef you’ll find 10-foot swells and heavy trade winds that’ll allow you to pull off some pretty epic moves.

The Outer Banks, North Carolina
If you’re looking for something a littler closer to home, look no further than the Outer Banks. The waters here are tame enough for children and there’s an endless array of things to keep you busy. The area is known for it’s lighthouses, but you can also enjoy your time by kayaking, canoeing or diving for shipwrecks if you get sick of windsurfing.

Boracay, Phillipines
Boracay is something straight out a Hollywood movie. It’s lined with blindingly white beaches, lines of palm trees and some of the best winds in the world. The average wind speed here is around 30mph and there’s room for every skill level to take advantage of them. Beginners can head to the side of the island opposite the lagoon to get in practice before attempting to shred water out past the reef.