Ask experienced kitesurfers where they learnt fastest, and most will name a flat-water spot. Smooth, shallow water takes away much of the struggle of the early stages and makes it far easier to master new skills later on. Here is why flat water kitesurfing is so effective – and why our lagoon in Hurghada is such a good place to experience it.
What is flat water?
Flat water means a surface with little or no chop or swell. It usually forms where sandbanks, reefs or the shape of the coast shelter the water from waves, while still letting the wind blow across it. Lagoons are the classic example: the wind arrives clean and steady, but the water stays smooth.
Why flat water speeds up learning
- Easier water starts. With no waves knocking you off balance, it is much easier to get up on the board.
- More time riding, less time recovering. In shallow water you simply stand up after a fall, grab your board and try again.
- Better kite control. A stable board lets you concentrate on steering the kite smoothly.
- Less fatigue. Fighting chop is tiring; flat water lets you ride longer.
- More confidence. Knowing you can stand up anywhere takes away much of the fear of the first sessions.
Flat water for intermediate and advanced riders
Flat water is not just for beginners. Smooth water is ideal for learning to ride upwind efficiently, carving clean transitions and practising your first jumps. For freestyle riders, a flat surface gives a predictable pop for tricks and softer landings. Speed riders love it too – with no chop, the board glides faster.
Our lagoon in Hurghada
Sultan Kite School is based on a long lagoon north of Hurghada, between Hurghada and El Gouna, beside the AMC Royal Hotel. It offers almost everything you could want from a flat-water kite spot:
- Waist-deep water over a large area, with a sandy bottom and no coral.
- Flat water at mid tide and no chop to fight.
- Fresh, almost constant cross-onshore wind, mainly from the north.
- Patches of deeper water and natural ramps for jumping.
- A long, quiet beach with space to launch and land.
Read more about the spot on our Red Sea kitesurfing page.
Flat water on a kite safari
If you love flat water, you will love the islands. On our Red Sea kite safari, sandbanks on the leeward side of islands such as Tawila and Geisum create smooth, chop-free lagoons around one metre deep, with no coral – perfect for training with strong, steady wind.
Tips for flat water kitesurfing
- Ride at the right tide. Water depth changes with the tide; mid tide is often the sweet spot.
- Keep an eye on the depth. In very shallow water, avoid jumping and big crashes.
- Wear boots if you like. Neoprene boots protect your feet when you walk back upwind.
- Respect other riders. Popular flat-water spots can get busy – give learners plenty of space.
Learn on flat water with us
Flat water kitesurfing is the fastest route from your first lesson to confident riding. Take a look at our kitesurfing lessons in Hurghada, check the live wind and get in touch to book.
Want to see the conditions for yourself? Check the multi-day forecast for our spot on Windy.app.
