When is the best time to kite at Cape St Francis, South Africa?

The best months at Cape St Francis, South Africa are Oct, Feb, Dec, Sep, Jan, Aug, Jul, Jun, Nov, Mar, Apr.

What level is Cape St Francis, South Africa suitable for?

Cape St Francis, South Africa is rated Intermediate for kiters.

What is the water like at Cape St Francis, South Africa?

Cape St Francis, South Africa has Ocean, Choppy conditions.

Kite spot

Cape St Francis, South Africa

Name: Cape St Francis, South Africa
Address: Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Intermediate Ocean Choppy Ocean

About Cape St Francis, South Africa

191 windy days a year, but Cape St Francis demands respect—reef, rocks, strong currents, and chop that won't tolerate sloppy technique.

Avg wind

12.8 kts

Peak season

12.8 kts

Windy days/yr

191

Peak hours

15:00–18:00

Monthly wind profile

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Bars = average wind speed in knots. Solid = best months.

Best months

OctFebDecSepJanAugJulJunNovMarApr

Wind directions

WSWEWSWNNW

Amenities

Cape St Francis Resort and nearby accommodations in Port ElizabethLocal restaurants and shops in the beach townRescue and patrol services available during peak seasonKitesurfing schools and rental shops in the Port Elizabeth area

Hazards

Choppy ocean conditions with strong currents along the capeRocks and reef hazards near the point; stay aware of the coastlineVariable wind directions can create unpredictable gusts; watch for wind shadowsOccasional sharks in the area; follow local safety guidelines

Launch notes

Launch from the sandy beach areas away from rocks; WSW and E winds are most consistent. Choppy conditions make this spot better for experienced riders; watch tide changes as they affect water texture and hazards.

Gear & clothing

Gear · Bring 14-17m kites to handle the average 12.8kt winds; 15m is versatile year-round. A directional or twin-tip board works well for choppy ocean conditions; consider a board with good edge control.

Clothing · A 3/2mm wetsuit is suitable for most months; upgrade to 4/3mm during winter (Jun-Aug) as water temperatures drop. Water temps range 15-22°C depending on season.

Crowd & etiquette

Respect local surfers and other water users sharing the break. Keep communication clear with other kiters, especially in windy conditions with variable directions.

Additional notes

With 191 windy days annually, this is a reliable year-round destination; June-August offers winter swells but colder water. Check local forecasts and tide tables before heading out, as conditions can shift quickly around the cape.

Features

Intermediate Spot

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