Guide to kitesurfing in Malaysia

Overview

Malaysia is less windy than its South-East Asian neighbours. The wind is on the east coast of the peninsula, during the north-east monsoon.

It is a light-wind destination, ridden with big kites.

When to go

The season runs from late November to March, with the north-east monsoon. Depending on the source and the spot, the wind is between 12 and 20 knots. The start of the monsoon is often rainy.

A second, lighter period runs from July to September, with around ten knots. From April to June, between the two monsoons, the wind is very weak.

Where to kite in Malaysia

Cherating, in Pahang state, is also the country's best-known surf spot. Balok beach, near Kuantan, is the kite spot of the area, with chop.

In the south, Desaru, in Johor state, gets the north-east wind side-onshore from December to March. Tioman Island and Jason Bay are also mentioned.

Our spots go as far as the Perhentian Islands, in the north.

Practical info

Gear. Bring your big kites, 12 to 17 m.

Getting there. Kuantan is about three hours' drive from Kuala Lumpur. Desaru is about fifty kilometres from Singapore airport.

What to wear. The water is warm. During the monsoon a shorty can be useful on overcast, windy days.