Vanuatu is a South Pacific island paradise. A French-speaking collection of over 80 volcanic islands, Vanuatu is all white-sand beaches, lush rainforest and deep blue sea. Although it’s attracting the attention of international tourism, unfortunately not many visit for Vanuatu windsurfing holidays.
Guide to Vanuatu windsurfing
As a holiday destination the Vanuatu scene is laid-back, welcoming and eco-friendly and of course the destination in paradise. Although windsurfers are very welcome there is not a thriving surf community to tap into, there is gear to hire or borrow and there is wind but neither are in huge abundance.
Vanuatu windsurfing conditions
The predominant trade winds are from the east to southeast with an annual average of just 5 knots. However, winds are more consistent during the winter, which is from May to October, with an average wind speed is 10 knots, but reaching up to 25 knots. So windsurfing is possible.
The winds during the summer – November to April – are lighter and more variable. However, tropical cyclone and depression weather systems are fairly common and can create strong winds and some good windsurfing conditions – sometimes too good.
On Vanuatu windsurfing holidays, expect calm waters and easy windsurfing off the beach, it’s a great place to learn to windsurf or for intermediates to improve their skills. Experts may find it a little lacking unless you get lucky with the wind.
Vanuatu windsurfing spots
The windsurfing scene is still developing in Vanuatu. This means crowded water and busy beaches are unlikely. In fact, you’ll probably be able to find a stretch of water all of your own with many of the beaches on the windward side of the islands suitable.
Probably the most popular Vanuatu windsurfing spot is Mele Beach. It is a short hop from the capital of Porta Vila and a great windsurf spot. It has flat, clear water and few swimmers – perfect for learning. Nearby Takara beach is a good place for intermediates to find a few bumps and practice jumps.
Just offshore, the ghostly island of Kakula was being developed into a millionaire’s retreat. But the project ran out of money and nature is slowly reclaiming its buildings…enjoy the view from the water. It’s another good beginners’ spot.
Experts looking for waves can try Pango village at high tide. It is a small sandy beach with a coral bottom and just 10 mins from the village.
Vanuatu windsurfing holidays
Unfortunately there are not any tour operators offering Vanuatu windsurfing holidays. Your best bet is to either book each part of your trip independently or to book a package holiday and to source the windsurfing when you arrive.
Some of the bigger hotels have windsurfing gear to use, but we have been unable to find any resources for hiring windsurfing gear or organising lessons. There may also be independent watersports operators in Vanuatu that do not have a web presence.
We would advise to take your own gear. But unfortunately Vanuatu Air restricts luggage to 2m long, so you’ll struggle to fly in your own equipment. This all makes Vanuatu windsurfing holidays fairly difficult to arrange.
But if you are heading there for a holiday anyway, you’ll probably be able to find some gear to use while out there. You can then enjoy empty water, deserted beaches and – if you get lucky – great wind. And if you don’t get to windsurf, well, Vanuatu will still be the South Pacific paradise you’ve always dreamed of.
