Kitesurfing in the Yucatan

The Spot

Progreso is a small beach town on the Gulf of Mexico, about 30 minutes from Mérida. Because of its geography — and the thermal effect created by the heat inland in Mérida — it’s one of the windiest areas in Mexico.

The main kite area is El Playón, a 2 km long stretch of beach at the edge of Progreso, starting toward Yucalpetén. Super easy access by car, plenty of space to rig, and you’ll almost always find other kiters around.

It’s lively but not overcrowded, and you have bars, restaurants and small shops nearby. Very easy spot to organize a full kite trip without stress.

🌬 Wind Conditions & Riding Tips

• Works best with N, NW and NE winds
• Thermal wind often kicks in during the afternoon
• Regularly 18–20 knots, quite consistent
• Shallow water for around 100 meters from shore
• Mostly flat to small chop
• Great for beginners and independent riders

Tip: If you’re new, stay within the shallow zone at first. The community here is friendly — someone will usually help you launch or land your kite.

🌴 What to Do Around

• Visit El Corchito natural reserve
• Explore the Mayan ruins of Dzibilchaltún (20 min)
• Spend a day in beautiful colonial Mérida (30 min)
• Sunset drinks by the malecón

☀️ Best Season

November to August
Best thermal months: February to May

🏄 Kitesurf School in Progreso Recommendation

We highly recommend Yuckite, based at Instituto Tropical. They’re pioneers of kitesurfing in Yucatán and have built a super relaxed and welcoming community.

You’ll also find:

• Kite & wingfoil lessons
• Yoga classes
• Kitesurfing equipment Shop
• And yes, Yuckite Custom Ponchos by Pakal Ethnic!

Website: https://www.yuckite.com/
Email: yuckite@gmail.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +52 9992790255

The Spot

Ría de Chelem is about 15–20 minutes from Progreso and around 45–60 minutes from Mérida. You can get there by bus, car or arrange transport with a local school.

It’s a lagoon-style flat water spot that works on SE wind days —surrounded by mangroves with waist-deep water. It feels like a natural training playground.

There isn’t much infrastructure around the actual riding area, but Chelem town is close.

🌬 Wind Conditions & Riding Tips

• Works only on SE wind days
• Wind blows onshore
• Usually 18–25 knots
• Best from early morning to early afternoon
• Waist-deep, super flat water inside the lagoon
• Perfect for lessons and progression
• Great playground for intermediate riders

Important: Some areas have obstacles and the launch zone can be tricky. — check the layout before riding. Better to go with someone who knows the spot the first time.

🌴 What to Do Around

Chelem is simple and local — and that’s the charm.

• Eat fresh fish at small seaside restaurants
• Drink a cold beer or fresh coconut
• Try coconut desserts
• Chill on the beach and slow down

☀️ Best Season

During the windy season (November to August), but only when SE wind is forecast.
Thermals are strongest from February to May.

🏄 Kitesurf School in Chelem Recommendation

Yuckite can also organize sessions and transport here.

Website: https://www.yuckite.com/
Email: yuckite@gmail.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +52 9992790255

The Spot

Chuburná is about 20 km from Progreso and feels a bit more off the radar. It’s not a busy kite destination — actually, most days you’ll only see a few locals out.

What makes this place special is the pier. When the wind comes from the right direction, it creates a wind shadow behind it and leaves you with super smooth, almost glassy water. On the right day, it feels like you discovered your own little freestyle playground.

There’s basically no infrastructure here, so bring what you need and check conditions before heading out.

🌬 Wind Conditions & Riding Tips

• Works best with NE wind
• Wind direction is offshore
• Super flat water behind the pier
• Usually uncrowded
• Best for advanced and independent riders

Important: Because the wind blows offshore toward a natural reserve and there’s no rescue service, this is not a beginner spot. You need to be confident, self-sufficient and comfortable riding in those conditions.

If you know what you’re doing though… it’s a dream for practicing tricks in flat water.

🌴 What to Do Around

Very simple vibes here:

• Eat good fish
• Drink cold beer or coconut water
• Hang at the beach
• Enjoy the quiet

It’s a ride-and-relax kind of place.

☀️ Best Season

Best during the thermal season, especially February to July when the NE wind is more consistent.

The Spot

Sisal is a charming fishing village about 47 km from Mérida. Once an important export port for henequén (which gave its name to “sisal” fiber), today it’s a peaceful, colorful seaside town surrounded by nature.

Wide white sand beaches, flamingos nearby, protected areas and a very authentic atmosphere. If you like quiet and nature, you’ll love Sisal.

🌬 Wind Conditions & Riding Tips

• Side-shore winds
• Shallow waters
• Perfect for beginners and progression

Long empty beaches make it ideal for learning without pressure.

🌴 What to Do Around

• Visit flamingo sanctuaries
• Explore cenotes nearby
• Day trip to Mérida
• Enjoy local seafood restaurants

Sisal is calm, authentic and not overdeveloped — which is exactly why we like it.

☀️ Best Season

February to July

🏄 Kitesurf School in Sisal Recommendation

Yuckite Sisal is based at Palmar Beach Club and offers super fun, professional lessons in a comfortable setup.

Website: https://www.yuckitesisal.com/
Email: yuckitesisal@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +52 9992790255

The Spot

El Cuyo is honestly our favorite. A small fishing village tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve.

It’s still peaceful, still authentic, and not packed with tourists. You share the beach with fishermen, a few locals… and the wind.

Soft sandy beaches, clear shallow water and super consistent wind. It just works.

🌬 Wind Conditions & Riding Tips

• Mostly side-onshore wind
• 15–25 knots on average
• Shallow water for dozens of meters
• Flat to light chop
• Great for beginners and advanced riders

No heavy shore break, no rocks — just space and wind.

🌴 What to Do Around

• Spot flamingos in Ría Lagartos
• Fat bike through dunes
• Bioluminescence at night (yes, it’s real and magical)
• Boat trips with local fishermen
• Wildlife encounters (turtles, rays, dolphins)

Even without wind, El Cuyo has something special.

☀️ Best Season

November to May
Peak months: February to May

🏄 Kitesurf School in El Cuyo Recommendation

We know Gianpaolo from Kitesurf Mexico — great instructor, good vibes and offers lessons, rentals, trips and accommodation.

Website: https://www.kitesurfmexico.com/
WhatsApp: +52 984 807 2567