Known throughout
the world for excellent weather and ideal offshore conditions, Aruba has long been one of
the best destinations for windsurfing. Experienced windsurfers flock to the island each
year to polish their skills and compete in prestigious competitions, most notably the
annual Aruba Hi-Winds event. However, the excellent windsurfing conditions in Aruba aren't
reserved for the professionals. Every day in Aruba, scores of visitors are introduced to
this unique water sport via lessons provided by the island's best windsurfing tour
companies and rental shops. Whether you are planning a windsurfing vacation or simply
looking to experience a new sport during your Caribbean vacation, the island of Aruba will
allow you to experience the best windsurfing the world has to offer.
Professional windsurfers and novices alike often begin their excursions at Vela Aruba,
the largest windsurfing center in the Caribbean. Whether you book a dedicated windsurfing
vacation or simply stop by to rent equipment or sign up for a lesson, Vela Aruba has the
best equipment for your family's needs. Located right on the beach at the north end of
Aruba's primary hotel area, Vela Aruba's easy access allows you to hop right in the water.
Offshore from the rental shop, windsurfers will find some of Aruba's best conditions,
highlighted by crystal-clear, shallow water and steady winds.
As most visitors to Aruba have never experienced windsurfing, the Vela Aruba College of
Windsurfing was created to provide beginners an opportunity to learn the sport from some
of the world's best instructors. Each day, Vela Aruba's renowned instructors take to the
water for individual, group and family lessons. Experienced windsurfers will also find
plenty of specialized courses that cover unique tricks and methods. All students at the
Vela Aruba College of Windsurfing will have a chance to use the newest equipment
available, as Vela Aruba receives the latest models each season. In most cases, classes
offered by the Vela Aruba College of Windsurfing last one hour, granting beginners and
experienced windsurfers plenty of time to test their skills in the open water.
Vela Aruba also offers kitesurfing rentals and lessons. As one of the most exciting new
water sports, kitesurfing promises an exhilarating experience for all ages and skill
levels. Vela Aruba offers kitesurfing lessons in the early morning each day, meaning
aspiring kitesurfers and professionals alike can enjoy Aruba's warm, clear waters without
worrying about windsurfers and other people playing in the Caribbean. Beginners will have
a chance to work with the best kitesurfing instructor in Aruba, while state-of-the-art
equipment and chase boats ensure the safest, most exciting experience possible.
Experienced kitesurfers are encouraged to stop by Vela Aruba to set up tours or learn
about the island's best spots.
In addition to the services offered by Vela Aruba, the island's incredible windsurfing
and kitesurfing opportunities rely on ideal year-round conditions. Along the northern and
eastern coasts of Aruba, consistent 15-knot trade winds are always capable of propelling
windsurfers and kitesurfers. Additionally, the waters offshore from Aruba's southern coast
feature many pristine flat water areas that are perfect for beginners, while more
challenging wave locations along the island's windward side regularly lure experienced
athletes. With the support of such conditions and facilities such as Vela Aruba, the
island has become home to one of the world's premier windsurfing events, Aruba Hi-Winds,
and the current female world champion, Sarah-Quita Offringa.
Even if you aren't ready to get in the water and try Aruba's unique water sports, there
is plenty of enjoyment to be found in watching the sails skim across the water. From the
impeccable sands of Marriott Beach and the Fisherman Huts area, those relaxing in the sun
will be able to watch windsurfers and kitesurfers practicing their moves in the Caribbean
waves. There is also plenty of fun to be found each year at the Aruba Hi-Winds
competition, where professional windsurfers put on one of the best shows in the world and
exciting events are always open to the public.
Whether you want to experience windsurfing and kitesurfing for yourself or simply want
to enjoy the sights from the beach, don't leave Aruba without taking part in the ultimate
Caribbean adventure. As Aruba is one of the best windsurfing destinations in the world, no
trip to the island is complete without these incredible water sports.
About the Author
Justin Burch writes articles about travel
in Aruba for the Marriott Resorts.
To learn more about Aruba, visit our other Aruba pages