Windsurfing with Tani
In 2018, I spoke to Tani about Windsurfing as I’d seen a few posts on Facebook of him in Corong-Corong, Bacuit Bay. As one of the first wind sports enthusiasts in El Nido and also part-owner of the iconic Art Cafe duo (hi Ma’am Judith), Tani Distal started the Amihan Kite Windsurf Cafe in October 2022 and finally opened this January 2023! From having one booking on Lio Beach to the northern outskirts of this off-the-beaten-path in Barangay Tenegiban. The hour journey to Amihan Kite Windsurf Cafe takes you out of the tourism bubble and into the beautiful tropical countryside with rice fields, valleys, and hillsides overlooking Darocotan Bay. Following the handpainted yellow signs, you won’t get lost on the bumpy three kilometers (cemented roads are currently being constructed) after turning off the highway. You’ll end up steps from the fisherman village’s pier and launch point to island expeditions bound for Coron.
Amihan Kite Windsurf Cafe
This cozy cafe allows visitors to rent water sports equipment and learn to windsurf or kite-board. In just a few months, Amihan Kite Windsurf Cafe has hosted many locals and tourists interested in seeing the rustic vibe of El Nido and those wanting to try something new. Remember, wind sports are weather dependent, and when trying a new sport, you might need a few days to get accustomed to the gear and conditions that come with it. Beginners will want at least eight knots of wind for lessons.
Windsurf lessons can be done with Tani, while Kite-Boarding is with local IKO Kite Instructor Donald Bello.
No wind, no problem. Grab a kayak and paddle to Darocotan Island, which hosts some reefs and a small shipwreck.
Windsurfing and Kiteboarding in Corong-Corong
At the time of writing the winds have changed from Amihan (Nov-Apr), northeast trade winds to Habagat (June-Oct), southwest trade wind. Corong-Corong is a playspace for wind and water sports during the Habagat season. Fortunately, for the locals that fell in love with the sport in the first half of 2023 they’ve now set-up in Panorama Beach Club and Resort. Thanks Judith and Tani!
Whether you’re interested in kite-boarding or windsurfing, there are experienced instructors available who can teach you everything from basic skills, such as standing up on a board, turning, tacking, and jibing, all the way up through advanced maneuvers like jumping or carving. You can also rent equipment if you know how to windsurf or kite but don’t have your gear.
Why windsurf or kitesurf in El Nido
Not convinced? Here are six reasons why someone might want to try windsurfing in the tropics:
- Warm waters: The warm waters of El Nido average between 27-30 ℃ waters making for a comfortable and enjoyable windsurfing experience.
- Consistent winds: The north and western parts of El Nido enjoy consistent trade winds. Amihan is characterized by northeastern winds between October and April, which provide ideal wind conditions for windsurfing.
- Beautiful scenery: The Darocotan Bay provides a stunning backdrop for the sport, with turquoise waters and lush landscapes.
- Variety of conditions: From flat waters to waves, El Nido’s locations offer a range of conditions for windsurfers of all levels.
- Accessibility: Many tropical destinations have established windsurfing communities and rental facilities, making it easy for visitors to try the sport.
