Bonaire · Bonaire
Las Aves de Sotavento, Venezuela
16kts
E · Wind season
Bonaire's Las Aves de Sotavento delivers wind 322 days a year over shallow reef. Flat water and steady trade winds suit progression—if you respect what's underneath.
- 16kts
- Average wind
- 322
- Windy days / year
- 15:00–18:00
- Peak wind hours
- E
- Primary direction
Location
- Nearest airports
- Airport - Bonaire
- Coordinates
- 12.0605, -67.6833
Monthly wind profile (peak window)
Jan
97%
rideable
17.2 kts
Feb
86%
rideable
17.4 kts
Mar
85%
rideable
17.4 kts
Apr
97%
rideable
16.6 kts
May
95%
rideable
17.5 kts
Jun
100%
rideable
18.5 kts
Jul
100%
rideable
17.1 kts
Aug
89%
rideable
15.7 kts
Sep
88%
rideable
15.7 kts
Oct
65%
rideable
16.3 kts
Nov
70%
rideable
16.4 kts
Dec
85%
rideable
16.7 kts
Best wind directions
- E
- ESE
- ENE
- NE
- SE
Water conditions
- Ocean
- Flat Water
Best months
Hazards
- Shallow reef areas and coral patches throughout the bay requiring careful navigation
- Strong currents during peak wind conditions can sweep riders toward deeper water
- Sudden wind shifts from the varying E-SE wind directions demand constant awareness
- Limited rescue infrastructure in remote areas of the spot
What that means for you
- Reef booties recommended at low tide
- Strong current — walk back upwind, don't body-drag down
- Mind your fins and lines in standing-depth water
Amenities
- Nearby beach facilities and basic shops in Bonaire's main settlements
- Local kite schools and rental shops catering to the consistent windy conditions
- Restaurants and accommodation options within short distance of launch areas
Local tips
This spot enjoys nearly year-round rideable conditions with 322 windy days annually—one of the most consistent spots in the Caribbean. Pack biodegradable sunscreen and respect Bonaire's strict marine protection policies to preserve the pristine reef environment.
Launch & beach
Flat water conditions make this ideal for launching and landing; use eastern and southeastern beach access points where wind flows most consistently offshore. The sandy beach provides easy entry but check tide levels before launching.
Local etiquette
Respect the local marine environment and coral protection zones; stay clear of fishing nets and local boat traffic in this popular waters. Keep to designated kite zones to maintain good relations with the diving and snorkeling community.
What to wear
A light 2mm or 3mm wetsuit is suitable year-round given tropical waters and consistent sun exposure. Rashguards are highly recommended for UV protection and comfort during long sessions.
What to pack
Kite sizes
- 14–17 mlight wind, under 14 kn
- 11–14 mtypical sessions, 14–22 kn
- 8–10 mstrong days, 20–28 kn
Boards
- Twintip — universal, bring one
What to wear (by climate)
- In the water
- Boardshorts or bikini with a rashguard or sun shirt.
- On land
- Light cotton; pack a rain jacket if the season overlaps rains.
Derived from the spot's latitude (tropical zone) and current season.
Right of way & manners
- 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
- 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
- 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
- 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
- 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.
Local rules & permits
- Marine Park rules apply — no sailing over coral, stay outside reef zones
- Atlantis Beach is the dedicated kite area; Lac Bay is wing/SUP-only
Spot guide
The Experience
Dark sand launch, glassy water, trade winds from the east. The bay works nearly every day of the year. This isn't a seasonal gamble—show up in June or January, wind shows up. Flat water means pure kite response and edge control. The tradeoff: constant reef awareness.
Wind & Conditions
322 windy days annually is uncommon for the Caribbean. Average sits around 16 knots; expect 18–22 in peak season (roughly Dec–March). Trade winds run E to ESE. Wind shifts are quick, so you can't zone out. The real advantage is consistency—plan a trip without crossing your fingers.
The Water
Flat. That suits progression. Shallow reef patches and coral heads scatter throughout the bay, not all visible from the surface. Know your launch and exit routes before you clip in. Currents push hard in peak season, especially offshore. Bonaire protects its reefs seriously—damage has real consequences. Stay on sand. Know where the coral is.
Who It's For
Beginner to intermediate riders comfortable reading wind and managing reef. No swell means predictable conditions; current and coral awareness matter from day one. Experienced riders come for consistent 18+ knot wind work and speed runs.
Launch & Logistics
East and southeast beach access points have the cleanest offshore flow. Rental shops and schools operate year-round near launch zones. Check tide before sessions—low water tightens reef margins. Rescue infrastructure is minimal in remote bay areas; plan sessions accordingly. Respect the reef: locals do, and the island enforces it.
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