In Jamaica kiting is still low-key. The trade winds blow in winter and spring, mostly on the north coast, between Montego Bay and Falmouth, where the most practical spots are.
The wind is rarely strong, the water is warm and there are few people on the water.
When to go
The season runs from December to April. The easterly trade winds set in from late November and hold until late spring, sometimes into early summer on the north coast.
The wind picks up in the morning and blows until late afternoon. The rainy season runs from late April to October, with a risk of hurricanes.
Best period : December to April
In November: 3% kiteable days
Kiteable days
8%
11%
11%
7%
6%
6%
8%
4%
1%
3%
3%
8%
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average windkts · gusts
617
718
718
617
617
718
719
616
513
513
514
615
When it blowskts
13
13
13
13
13
13
15
13
13
13
14
13
Air °C
25°
24°
25°
26°
27°
27°
28°
27°
27°
27°
26°
25°
Raindays
12
15
17
19
19
17
16
21
21
24
20
17
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Historical monthly averages, not a forecast.
These averages come from a coarse-grid weather model. It underestimates the trade winds that strengthen along the north coast. For the season, trust the text.
Where to kite in Jamaica
Burwood Beach, in Bounty Bay, about twenty minutes east of Montego Bay, is considered the best spot on the island. The slope is gentle, the water shallow and there is no reef. The wind pushes you towards the beach.
Flamingo Beach, near Falmouth, gets a north-east wind that comes side-onshore.
On the south side, near Kingston, Plumb Point works in south-east wind, with small waves.
Getting there. Montego Bay airport is the closest to the north coast spots.
Gear. The wind is often light. Bring your big kites.
Reefs. Apart from Burwood Beach, many beaches are lined with reefs and sea urchins. Talk to a local before you go out.
Frequently asked questions
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Préparer un trip kite in Jamaica
Kiteloopers référence les spots, les écoles, les hébergements et les voyages de la destination, avec la météo en direct. Tout ce qu'il faut pour partir au bon moment.