Kitesurf at Zamboanguita

Kiteboarding Paradise in Negros Oriental

  • Overview
  • Good to know
  • Getting there

Overview

Located on the southern coast of a beautiful Philippine island, Zamboanguita offers a relaxed atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and consistent winds, making it an ideal destination for kiteboarders of all skill levels. The renowned "Cockpit" beach, with its broad flat-water expanse and gentle breeze, is perfect for thrilling sessions for experienced riders and also a great place for beginners to learn. When the wind dies down, Zamboanguita has a lot more to offer. You can go snorkelling or diving at the famous Apo Island, a sanctuary for colourful marine life. You can tour through the lush scenery of the Twin Lakes Natural Park, where you can see cascading waterfalls and picturesque craters. You can also discover the local culture by exploring nearby markets and trying Filipino cuisine. Zamboanguita boasts a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. You can choose cosy guesthouses nestled among the palm trees or opt for a beachfront resort with a touch of luxury. Regardless of your choice, you'll receive a warm Filipino welcome and a chance to experience the island's unique charm. The relaxed atmosphere at the beach extends into the evenings, with several beachfront bars and restaurants providing breathtaking sunset views and casual settings to enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious local dishes. You may also find live music, adding a touch of liveliness. However, for a more diverse nightlife, you can head to Dauin, just 12km north. This town offers a broader range of bars and restaurants catering to those seeking a more vibrant evening scene. From the exhilaration of kiteboarding to the serenity of nature and the richness of local culture, Zamboanguita guarantees an unforgettable adventure.

Good to know

VISAS: Citizens of nearly every country can get a visa upon arrival in the Philippines for up to 29 days (Visitors from Israel and Brazil get 59 days). You can have this visa extended at one of the offices of the Bureau of Immigration. CURRENCY: Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs are available in bigger towns; however, withdrawing cash before getting to the spot is recommended, as there are no ATMs in the village. Note that AMERICAN EXPRESS cards might not be accepted. PRICES: Beer: 50-80 PHP ($0.90-1.50) Lunch at the beach: 100-200 PHP ($1.80-3.60) Dinner: 200-500 PHP ($3.60-8.90) Accommodation: 600-2000 PHP ($10-35) per night (guesthouse - resort) Kite Lessons: Basic course (semi-private, 6 hours) - 8,000 PHP ($140)  Kite Gear Rental: Full day - 2,500 PHP ($45)  LANGUAGE: Filipino is the national language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Zamboanguita. Learning basic Filipino phrases is appreciated by locals.  INTERNET: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Consider a local SIM card for better connectivity, especially outside town. TRAVEL ADVICE:  While Zamboanguita is generally safe, exercise caution at night, especially in secluded areas. Choose accommodation with good security measures. Use reputable transportation services and dine at established restaurants. Consider renting a motorbike to explore the surrounding areas. TEMPERATURE: The climate is warm and tropical year-round, with average temperatures around 28°C (82°F). Expect hot, sunny days and warm, humid nights. Pack light, breathable clothing and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially during the rainy season (June to October).

Getting there

NEAREST TOWN: Dauin NEAREST CITY: Dumaguete City NEAREST AIRPORT: Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport (DGT) is 30km from Zamboanguita. Several airlines offer connecting flights with  Public transportation: Take a taxi from the airport to the Sibulan Transport Terminal. From there, catch a Ceres bus bound for Zamboanguita. The total travel time, including waiting for the bus, can be around 2-3 hours. Private transfer: Pre-arrange a private transfer with your accommodation or a local transportation company. This option is more convenient and faster but comes at a higher cost. Car rental: Renting a car from the airport offers flexibility and allows you to explore the region at your own pace. However, consider factors like driving conditions and unfamiliarity with the area before choosing this option. Getting around Zamboanguita: Tricycle: The most common and affordable way to get around town and nearby areas. Negotiate the fare before riding. Motorbike rental: Renting a motorbike is a convenient way to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Ensure you have a valid international driver's license and are comfortable riding in an unfamiliar environment. Habal-habal: These are motorcycle taxis that can take you to farther destinations. Again, negotiate the fare beforehand. For exploring further locations: - Consider renting a car for day trips or longer journeys, especially if travelling with a group or seeking more independence. - Local buses connect Zamboanguita to nearby towns and villages. Additional tips: - Book your flights and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (November to May). - Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances. - Research visa requirements for the Philippines before your trip. - Download offline maps or a translation app to your phone, as internet connectivity might be limited in some areas. - Be mindful of local customs and traditions.

  • Beach
  • Wind
  • Rules/Hazards

Beach

Zamboanguita is known for its excellent kiteboarding conditions, thanks to consistent winds and great kiteboarding conditions for any rider. The central spot, Cockpit Beach, boasts a vast expanse of shallow, flat water, making it ideal for beginners to learn and practice their skills. Consistent side-onshore winds provide ample power for riding, while the sandy beach allows for smooth launches and landings. Several kiteboarding schools operate on the beach, offering lessons, equipment rental, and storage facilities. Restaurants and cafes are within walking distance, offering refreshments and post-session relaxation. Accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to resorts, are available near the beach. Other Spots: While Cockpit Beach is the most popular and well-established kiteboarding spot in Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental, there are a few other options in the surrounding area, each offering slightly different characteristics: Dauin: Located north of Zamboanguita, Dauin is known for its calm and shallow waters, making it ideal for beginners and those looking for a relaxed riding experience. The wind conditions are similar to Zamboanguita, with the Amihan season offering the best winds.  Guihulngan:  Situated further north along the coast, Guihulngan boasts a longer stretch of coastline with stronger and more consistent winds than Zamboanguita. This makes it a preferred spot for advanced riders and those seeking more challenging conditions. However, the beach can be quite exposed, and finding suitable accommodation near the spot might be more limited.  Siquijor Island:  This nearby island offers various kiteboarding spots, the most popular being Salagdoong Beach. The wind conditions here are similar to Zamboanguita, with the Amihan season providing the strongest winds. However, due to the island's layout, wind consistency can vary depending on the location.  These are just a few examples, and exploring other potential spots might be possible depending on your specific preferences and riding level. Always consult with local kiteboarding schools or experienced riders for the latest information and guidance on conditions and suitability for your skill level before heading out to any new location. Additional Considerations: Water temperatures on the island range from 26-29°C (79-84°F) throughout the year, making a rashguard or It'st wetsuit sufficient for most riders. This would also be excellent sun protection for long hours in the water. Be mindful of the wind season, with the strongest and most consistent winds blowing from November to May (Amihan season). Research and book lessons or rental equipment in advance, especially during peak season. AMENITIES: Kite School, Gear Rental, Rescue Boat, Beach Assistance, Gear Storage, Kite Shop, Kite/Gear Repair, Toilets, Shower, Parking, Cafe/Bar, Camping, Accommodation, Food Shop

Wind

The primary kiteboarding season, Amihan, runs from November to May, providing reliable winds typically blowing between 15-20 knots. Wind speeds are typically consistent, ranging from 15 to 20 knots, making it suitable for a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. The dominant wind direction during Amihan is North-East, which blows onshore, creating ideal conditions for side-onshore riding. For 75kg riders, 9m and 11m kite sizes are perfect for this spot (per ±10kg of weight, increase or decrease one kite size). The secondary wind season, Habagat, occurs from June to October. However, winds during this period are generally southerly and weaker, making it less suitable for consistent kiteboarding. This time of the year also brings many storms and rain. While tides in Zamboanguita are relatively small, it's still recommended to check the tide forecast before heading out, as low tide can expose some rocks at certain spots on the beach. Overall, Zamboanguita presents excellent conditions for kiteboarding, especially during the Amihan season. The consistent wind, flat water at Cockpit Beach, and uncrowded environment make it a fantastic destination for beginners and experienced riders. WIND DIRECTIONS: NE WINDIEST MONTHS: High Season - December, January, February, March Mid Season - November, May

Rules/Hazards

The beach in Zamboanquita is only 500m long, with one area of shallows in the middle used for beginners' lessons. There is enough space for everyone in the launch area, even at the high tide. The middle section has a small reef at low tide that has to be avoided. *If you need kite-related services like kite repairs, lessons, or beach assistance, it is recommended that you choose resorts that provide these services. ** It is always recommended to seek additional knowledge about the spot from the local kite School or qualified instructors.

Info

Rider Level:
beginner, intermediate, advanced
Discipline:
freeride, waveriding, foiling
Spot Type:
Flat to choppy, Small waves (up to 1m), Open water
Launch area:
Sand; Pebbles
Tidal:
yes
Windiest Months:
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec

Around Zamboanguita

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