Not all months are created equal
The question we get asked most: "When's the best time to go?" And the honest answer is: it depends on who you are.
If you're a beginner, the nuclear-wind months of February and March aren't necessarily your best bet. If you're an advanced rider looking for guaranteed strong wind, September is a waste of time. Let's go month by month.
The northeast trade winds
Before the data, some context. Wind on Colombia's Caribbean coast comes from the northeast trade winds — air currents that blow from the North Atlantic toward the equator. They're the same winds that power spots across the Caribbean from Aruba to the Dominican Republic.
In Salinas del Rey, these winds arrive from the NE, creating a side-onshore condition in the main bay. This means the wind blows slightly toward the beach — perfect for kiting because if something goes wrong, the wind pushes you toward land instead of away from it.
Month by month: the honest guide
December — The start. Trade winds begin consolidating mid-month. Expect 18-25 knots with occasional 30+ days. It's a good month: solid wind without being excessive, and the temperature is perfect. Quite busy due to holidays.
January — High season. 22-30 knot average, with gusts up to 35. Rideable days: 25-28 per month. Excellent for all levels. If you're a beginner, the wind is manageable with smaller kites.
February and March — The beast months. 25-35 knots consistent. There are days where it blows so hard that even experienced riders go out with 7-9 meter kites. If you're a beginner, you can still learn but your instructor will choose strategic times (early morning when the wind hasn't peaked yet). This is when the GKA World Tour is held.
April — The sweet spot. Wind drops a bit: 20-28 knots. Fewer people, more affordable prices, and perfect conditions for learning. My favorite month for teaching beginners.
May — Transition. Wind drops to 12-20 knots. Some days you ride, others you don't. If you're coming only for kite, it's a gamble.
June and July — The second season. Trade winds return with 15-25 knots. Not as strong as January-March, but enough to ride most days. Fewer tourists, quieter spot. Excellent for beginners.
August — Similar to May. 12-20 knots, inconsistent. Good days happen but no guarantee.
September to November — Low season. 8-15 knots with many windless days. More frequent rain. Not worth coming specifically for kite, but if you're in the area, you can always get lucky with a good day.
When to come if you're a beginner?
My recommendation: April, June, or July. Enough wind to learn but not so brutal as to frustrate you. Fewer people on the water (important when learning). And lower accommodation prices.
If you can only come during high season (Dec-Mar), no problem — your lessons will simply be scheduled during the gentler wind hours.
When to come if you're an experienced rider?
February or March. Without question. Guaranteed wind, waves outside, and the chance to do epic downwinds with 30+ knots at your back.
Check availability for the date that suits you best.