Best places to windsurf by Adrien Bosson

Key Takeaways

• Looking for the “Best places to windsurf by Adrien Bosson”? This article is for you! Adrien shares the top windsurfing spots combining a blend of powerful, consistent winds, beautiful scenery… And opportunities for every skill level from novice to pro !
• Since each spot has a wind season, plan your trip around the best months. It will not only enhance your windsurfing fun but also improve safety. In addition, paying attention to the season helps avoid unfavorable conditions, thereby maximizing enjoyment.
• Moreover, safety matters. Spots such as Sal and Le Morne have strong waves and reefs, which are more appropriate for experienced windsurfers. Lagoons in Bonaire and Dakhla provide safer environments for beginners and intermediates to learn and progress.
• Another advantage is that many of these places are frequented by global windsurfing communities. It offers opportunities for cultural exchange, bonding, and engaging in competitions or community events.
• Carefully investigating travel arrangements and amenities—like on-site clubs or rental stations—allows to plan a hassle-free journey.
• By traveling to established spots, from my home beaches at Six-Fours to legendary world locations such as Maui and Cape Town, you will expand your skills while also immersing yourself in new windsurfing
• To stay connected in all this windsurf places, Adrien relies on Ubigi and its eSIM data plans to avoid roaming charges and share his adventures online.

A small note from Adrien Bosson

I took my first steps on a windsurf board at the age of 6 with my father in Six-Fours. As I was small and the equipment was heavy, it was difficult at first, but after a few hours I managed to make my first turns. From that moment, I loved the feeling of the board gliding across the water, the speed, and the sail pulling on my arms , it was incredible. That’s where my passion was born.

It has always stayed with me and pushed me to discover new waves so I could glide better. My first windsurfing trip was in 2008 to northern Sardinia. I was 16 and went with friends who had a license and a car. I was able to compete in my first international competition (the European Youth Championship).

Since then, I have traveled every year, exploring new spots around the world in search of the best conditions, the most beautiful waves, and the perfect lagoons.

10. Leucate (France)

My first time here was in 2009, when I took part in my first professional competition (a European Cup) at La Franqui. I lost, but I loved it 😅 There are lots of other great spots along the coast and in the lakes too.

Leucate is known for its tramontane wind and over 300 windy days annually. The tramontane wind often blows very strongly, making it a great place for freestyle and windsurfing in general. I go there at least once a year for events, to train, or just to sail for fun.

The 10 km stretch of beach and flat water accommodates all styles. Eole spot is intermediate-friendly, shallow, and wind stats average 25 knots or more. The best time to go is from May to October, as the tramontane wind is freezing in winter!

9. Dakhla (Morocco)

I’ve been to Dakhla twice. I have incredible memories of it because I went there for the first time in March 2020, right at the start of COVID! I got stuck there because the borders closed, but I was able to get a repatriation flight four days later to return to France and go into lockdown.

Dakhla is in the far south of Morocco at the gateway to the Sahara Desert. It has a rather mystical atmosphere and the windsurfing spots are fantastic. There are two options: the lagoon or the ocean.

In the lagoon, the water is flat and you can sail safely whether you’re windsurfing, kitesurfing, or wingfoiling, and it’s suitable for all levels. In the ocean, I was able to surf some of my longest waves. I would say that the best time to go is between February and October for wind and waves!

8. Bonaire (Netherlands Antilles)

My first time here was in 2014 for a World Cup stage. It is a legendary spot for freestyle windsurfing, with many athletes on the world circuit coming from this small island, including two world champions originating from this small paradise island.

The Sorobon lagoon is magnificent, with turquoise water at 28 degrees and constant trade winds between 15 and 25 knots. It’s like an open-air swimming pool for windsurfing among turtles and flamingos. The windy season is between January and July, courtesy of the renowned eastern tradewind.

Bonaire has well-protected marine parks, colorful coral reefs and a peaceful, clean community with low unemployment.

7. Fuerteventura (Canary Islands)

I went to Fuerteventura for the first time in 2009 (after graduating high school!), and it was also my first time flying with my gear quite an adventure! That year, I received a wildcard to compete in the World Cup stage held in the south of the island, in Sotavento. With no world ranking, I was drawn against the number one in the very first round. Somehow, I managed to win that duel — and that victory is what launched my career.

Since then, I’ve returned to the island every year to compete in the World Cup, but also for the pleasure of sailing. The wind blows all year round there, much stronger in the south (sometimes at 50 knots) and with more waves in the north. Fuerteventura is known as the European Hawaii for the variety of its spots and conditions.

South delivers stronger wind and north delivers bigger waves. Corralejo is great for less extreme conditions. The island’s landscape and expansive beaches never tire.

6. Six-Fours beaches (France)

This is my home spot! This is where it all began and where I surf most of the time. I’ve been lucky enough to surf some of the best spots on the planet, which has allowed me to appreciate the quality of the spots in Six-Fours Bay.

The bay is magnificent, with islands, beaches, lagoons, and rocky points, and forests in the background. The conditions are very varied and can be exceptional when you’re there at the right time. NO PLACE LIKE HOME.

For beginners or families, places like Plage du Rayolet remain calm and inviting. The conditions are suitable for all types of water sports and all levels! There’s a nice club near Le Brusc called Cahute Gliss’ Center, I think 😉You can sail there all year round, but you’ll need gloves and a balaclava in January and February.

5. Sal (Cape Verde)

Sal, I put it in fifth place because I don’t want too many people going there. I’ve dreamed of surfing the waves on this island since I was a teenager because they are the most beautiful in the world (but also among the most dangerous!).

I finally made it there in March 2023, right after winning the world championship, it felt like a well-deserved reward. I booked my plane tickets at the last minute, after checking the weather forecast just a few days in advance. During my trip, I got to surf some of the most beautiful waves of my life!

The wind blows slightly from the land and the waves are long, perfect, and powerful. They roll in front of the rocks, which explains why surfing such waves is dangerous and why they are reserved for riders of a certain level.

Santa Maria bay gives you softer rides and Cural Joul even pushes the best. A 3/2 mm wetsuit suits the transparent waters. There are other spots to the south and east of the island that are much calmer and less risky.

Swell peaks from November to April, with Monte Grande looming as a silent guardian.

4. Le Morne – Mauritius

I discovered Mauritius a few months after Cape Verde for a photo shoot for my equipment supplier’s new range of boards and sails. We went to the island with the whole team, and the atmosphere was incredible, as were the conditions.

Le Morne Brabant is a mountain by the water surrounded by a huge lagoon that is ideal for windsurfing, wingfoiling, and kitesurfing for all levels. At the edge of this lagoon, there is a reef that creates magnificent waves, but it is also very dangerous!

The Indian Ocean is extremely powerful, as are the currents. I loved surfing the One Eye wave on the reef (1.5 km from the beach), one of my most beautiful but also most frightening.

3. Jericoacoara (Brazil)

First time here was in September 2011. At the time, I was still a student, and I treated myself to this trip thanks to my summer job. It was one of my best trips in terms of conditions and encounters.

It’s a very well-known spot, and all board sports enthusiasts travel to Jeri, which creates a great atmosphere both in the water and on land. For windsurfing, it has everything: wind every day (20-35 knots), small waves or flat seas with no danger, warm water, and a unique atmosphere in this small Brazilian village.

Beautiful beach, sunset barefoot in the sand with coconut water or a delicious cocktail. The best season is between July and January. In high season, early booking of a room really counted. There are plenty of other spots in the sea or lagoon nearby that can be reached by buggy.

2. Maui (Hawaii)

This is the legendary spot for windsurfing, we even call it Mecca. I first went to Maui in 2012, having paused my studies to fully commit to my windsurfing career. To stay there for several months, I found a small job on a water lily farm, working in the mornings and sailing in the afternoons.

During my time there, I had the incredible opportunity to meet the legends of my sport and even share the waves with them! I was only 20 years old, and it was absolutely surreal.

There is wind from March to November and waves all year round. The North Shore spots are good almost every day during the season and there is something for all levels. The American surfing vibe that reigns on the North Shore is legendary, with all the best riders on the planet having surfed these spots (especially Ho’okipa).

There’s a unique energy on this small island in the middle of the Pacific, it’s almost magical! I was lucky enough to be able to go there every year between 2014 and 2019 and I hope to return very soon!

1. Cape Town (South Africa)

This is my second home. I first went there in 2014 and have returned around ten times since. During the off-season, I used to spend every winter in Cape Town for training. While there, I would meet fellow athletes on the world circuit and connect with my sponsors to develop equipment and take photos.

It’s the southern tip of the African continent, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other. It’s a very wild place with very varied sailing conditions. There are hundreds of different spots with exceptional conditions, most of them in the ocean, but also in lagoons and lakes. From Table View’s windy waters to flat lagoons further inland…

The territory is vast, and there is always somewhere to sail, but this can involve several hours of driving. The best time to visit is from November to March, which is summer in the southern hemisphere, but be aware that the water can sometimes be freezing on the Atlantic side, depending on the sea currents.

I particularly like this place for the variety of conditions, but also for the diversity of activities available, both at sea and on land. You can discover new things every day there: hiking, biking, golf, culture, lifestyle. That’s what I love about this place!

Travel connectivity with Ubigi eSIM

Traveling has always been a big part of my life. Every new destination brings its own waves, cultures, and emotions. But as much as I love exploring, staying independent and connected wherever I go has become essential.

That’s where Ubigi eSIM has really changed the game for me. No need to look for a local SIM or wait to get online : it works instantly in more than 200 destinations. I just activate it and I’m connected. No stress, no wasted time, and no shocking roaming bills at the end of the trip.

The flexibility is what I love most: I can choose the data I need, from 1GB to unlimited, and top up anytime… Even without Wi-Fi! Everything’s done through a simple app, which keeps me in control whether I’m in Brazil, Mauritius or Hawaii.

It’s made traveling even smoother. I can check the weather before a session, share my adventures in real time, and stay close to family and friends, no matter where the wind takes me. Use my promo code BOSSON to get a 10% discount on your first purchase of data plan.

Conclusion

I know windsurf destinations such as Cape Town, Maui, Jericoacoara, and Leucate all have their own appeal. Some blow hard with big waves, some offer flat water and soft sun.

I love that I can select a destination that suits my ability or state of mind. Every location has its unique cuisine, scenery, and folk. I can make new friends or discover quiet nooks to de-clutter my mind.

For me, the best part is the combination of sport and travel. I get to exercise, sample new cuisine, and explore new territory all simultaneously. To launch a windsurf adventure, I simply have a destination and hit the road.

Traveling means discovering new waves, cultures, and emotions. But traveling also means knowing how to stay independent and connected. With Ubigi eSIM, I get instant, flexible internet connectivity in 200+ destinations.

No physical SIM required. It works immediately, so I don’t waste time waiting to get connected. I avoid sky-high roaming charges and enjoy data plans from 1GB to unlimited. Others save as much as 90% on their data budget.

I can top up anytime (even without Wi-Fi) and do it all with a simple app. I’m in control of my usage whether I’m in Australia, Brazil, or the USA. It’s been great. I can always check the weather conditions, share my adventures live, and stay in touch with my loved ones… No matter where the ocean takes me!

We hope that this “Best places to windsurf by Adrien Bosson” article helped you prepare your next trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment do I need to windsurf at these locations?

Now, I always pack a board, sail, wetsuit, harness, and safety gear. Most favorite windsurf spots have rental shops, so I can travel light if necessary.

When is the best time to visit these windsurfing destinations?

I look at the wind seasons first. Almost all spots have steady winds from May to September. Local conditions differ. I’d suggest you look up each destination’s wind calendar.

Are these windsurfing spots suitable for beginners?

Others, such as Bonaire and Six-Fours beaches, are ideal for novice windsurfers due to flat water and mild winds. Cape Town is more suitable for seasoned windsurfers.

Can I take windsurfing lessons at these destinations?

I discover certified schools and instructors at nearly all these locations. Lessons are available for everyone, from beginner to advanced level.

What safety precautions should I take when windsurfing abroad?

I always review local weather, rock a life jacket and understand the region’s regulations. It’s essential I plan to tell someone and windsurf within my abilities.

Are there any travel restrictions or permits needed for windsurfing at these places?

While most destinations are tourist-friendly, I always verify visa regulations and local laws in advance. Certain protected areas might need special permits.

How do I transport my windsurfing gear internationally?

I travel with board and sail bags. Most airlines accept sports gear, but I look up their rules and surcharges in advance. It is usually simpler and easier to rent gear locally.