General & Getting Started

Do I need any experience to try kitesurfing at Bar Reef or Dolphin Beach?

If you wish to kitesurf in front of the resort, you should be an experienced kitesurfer. Learning to kitesurf is best done in the lagoon, where we offer beginner kite lessons.

How long does it take to learn kitesurfing?

A minimum of three days is required to complete the beginner course. 6 Lessons are conducted and held every morning and afternoon.

Is transport provided free of charge to the kite learning spot?

Yes.

Lessons & Instruction

Are your instructors certified?

Yes. We partner with KiteZone, whose instructors are all IKO-certified.

Can I book private lessons?

Yes.

How many lessons will I need before I can ride independently?

Six lessons over three days.

Equipment & Gear

Do I need to bring my own equipment?

No, it’s not necessary.

Can I rent equipment if I already know how to kitesurf?

Yes.

Can I rent gear without taking a lesson?

Yes.

What brands of kitesurfing equipment do you use?

Ozone.

What kite sizes and board types are available for rental?

Kites: 6m² to 16m²
Boards: 130–134 cm, 134–235 cm, and 155–250 cm.

Do you offer foil boards or wing foil gear for rent?

We offer foil boards only. Wing foil gear is not available.

Is there a gear check or skills assessment before independent rental?

Yes.

Do you provide wetsuits and other protective gear?

Yes. We also provide life jackets and sunglasses and sun protection.

Can I bring my own kites and board?

Yes.

Can I bring my own gear and pay only for beach or launch access?

Yes. You may bring your own gear, and there is no charge for beach or launch access.

Do you offer kite repair or line replacement services on-site?

No. These services are outsourced but we take responsibility for the work done.

Is secure storage available for my own gear?

Yes.

Can I store my kite bags or boards during my stay or while traveling?

Yes.

Spot, Weather & Conditions

What kind of kitesurfing spot do you have-flat water, waves, or both?

You can access flat water in the lagoon, however you may have to travel to that location. In front of the resort, there is a reef approximately 4 km offshore. Within this area, you can expect small waves with very little swell. During the off-season, conditions are generally flatter.

Is the water/lagoon suitable for beginners?

Yes. The lagoon kite spot is ideal for beginners.

What's the water depth and tide range like at the launch spot?

There is no significant tidal variation in the lagoon. Water depth ranges from approximately 3 feet to 10 feet.

What's the best time of year to kitesurf at your resort?

May to September, and from 20 December to 20 March.

Do you offer kitesurfing year-round, or is it seasonal?

We offer kitesurfing year-round; however, the best months are July and August.

How strong does the wind need to be, and what's the average wind speed and direction during the season?

During the summer season (May to September), wind speeds typically range from 20–25 knots and come from the southwest. During December, wind speeds average 15–20 knots and come from the northwest.

Is the wind thermal, seasonal trade wind, or something else?

We experience two monsoon seasons: southwest winds from May to October and northeast winds from November to April. Both are seasonal trade winds. During the inter-monsoon periods (April, May, October, and November), wind conditions and directions can be unpredictable.

How reliable is the wind during the season?

During May and June, expect strong, gusty winds. From July to October, the winds are strong and steady. From November to April, the winds remain steady, although larger kites will be required.

What happens if there's no wind during my scheduled lesson?

Activities and excursions are available. Please check our website for details.

Are there any hazards to be aware of, such as reefs, rocks, currents, or boat traffic?

At the lagoon learning spot, there are no reefs, rocks, strong currents, or boat traffic. In front of the resort, there is also no boat traffic during the best kitesurfing conditions.

Is the spot suitable for downwinders, and do you offer guided downwind runs?

Yes. Downwinders are available from in front of the resort, and guided downwinders can also be arranged in advance.

Is there a nearby wave break for wave riding?

Yes, outside the resort during the inter-monsoon months (April, May, October, and November).

Safety & Logistics

What safety measures are in place during lessons?

We have a rescue boat, IKO-certified instructors, and all necessary safety equipment for students. Our instructors are also qualified in First Aid and Emergency Aid.

I have a medical condition or injury—can I still kitesurf

It depends on your medical condition. Please contact us in advance so we can advise you accordingly.

Is there a dedicated launch and landing area?

Yes. We have a large designated launch and landing area.

Do you offer assisted launch and landing for solo riders?

Yes.

Is there a rescue boat available for emergencies or gear retrieval?

Yes.

Are there any rules for solo riding or a check-in system?

Yes. Riders should always stay upwind and follow standard kitesurfing right-of-way rules.

Can I ride outside of staffed operating hours?

Yes, but only at your own risk.

Is there Wi-Fi or live wind data available before heading to the beach?

Yes. Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, and live wind data can be accessed via Windguru or Windy.

Skill Progression & Advanced Riding

Is the spot suitable for freestyle, jumps, or trick progression?

Yes.

Do you offer advanced coaching for freestyle, foiling, or wave riding?

Yes.

Can I ride with other experienced kitesurfers or locals?

Yes.

Do you host or organize kitesurfing events, competitions, or downwinders?

No.

Booking, Pricing & Practical Info

How much do kitesurfing lessons cost?

Please visit our Rates page.

What are your gear rental rates (hourly, daily, or weekly)?

Please visit our Rates page.

Do you offer discounted multi-day or weekly rental packages?

Yes. Discounts may be available depending on the rental duration.

Do I need to book in advance?

⁠Yes, we recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred dates. No advance payment is required. If you do wish to pay in advance it will be non refundable.

Are kitesurfing lessons included in my resort stay, or are they an additional cost?

Kitesurfing lessons are available at an additional cost.

What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy for lessons?

Once a reservation has been confirmed, cancellations are not possible. However, rescheduling could be arranged.

Where do the kitesurfing lessons take place?

Lessons are conducted at the KiteZone location in Kandakkuliya, on the shallow Kalpitiya Lagoon.

Travel and kitesurfing insurance are recommended.

Who should I contact if I have a gear issue?
  • For all matters relating to kitesurfing and equipment, please contact our kitesurfing instructor, Mario, directly via WhatsApp at (+94 76 400 5809).

     

  • For matters relating to accommodation and other resort services, please contact our reservations officer, Loretta, via email at info@makararesorts.lk or WhatsApp at (+94 77 772 3272).