Come along for kitesurfing
Ride the wind. Stay for the stories.
Top gear. Pro instructors. great vibes.
Flexible starting dates. All levels welcome.
"You see the landscape zipping by at high speed, you feel the sun and the salty spray on your face, and suddenly everything goes slow-motion… Deep inside you feel an adrenalin-fueled calmness. It’s magic. It’s what kite surfing is all about."
- Ozzy, owner of The Ocean Spirits Lodge
To make you ride is our mission
In only 3 hours we give you a first-hand experience, in only 3 days we teach you to ride a board – and you’ll be hooked!
Learn Kitesurfing in Alvor, Lagos
* Alvor flat water lagoon, a perfect beginner’s spot
* Very consistent wind conditions for kitesurfing
* Instructors speak German, English, Portuguese, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, and French
* Brand new 2022 Duotone equipment
* VDWS certified kiteschool
All courses include
✅ Experienced licensed (VDWS/IKO) Kite Instructor
✅ All kite equipment + wetsuit
✅ SUP Tours instead of kite lessons on windless days (preebookings)
✅ Pick up and drop off in the Burgau/Luz/Lagos area
✅ Buddy system
Beginner´s Kite Course – what you need to know
Requirements:
1. You have to weigh at least 45 kilos.
If you weight less, you won’t need a kite to fly away.
2. You have to be between 14 and 75 years old.
Adrenalin flows throughout generations.
3. We need wind.
Luckily we don’t need a whole lot of luck to get it. It’s a very windy place.
Kitesurfing is an extreme sport.
As in extreme fun – but not as in extreme danger.
Equipment has become much safer during recent years, so you can enjoy this fantastic water sport without putting yourself in danger. Well, at least if you have proper equipment and somebody who tells you how to use it properly. At Kiteschool Portugal we do, and that’s why we have an internationally recognised licence from VDWS International.
Kite Courses
You’ll be blown away. Literally.
The very first step into the world of kitesurfing is the so-called Body Drag. You guessed it: that’s you being dragged through the water by the energy of the kite. Once you’ve done that, chances are high that you want the real deal. A surfboard under your feet – and the skills to maneuvre it wherever you want.
3 Hours Course
Feel the magic: The Body Drag gives you a first-hand impression of what it feels like to become one with the wind.
Includes: Short theory, safety systems, equipment set up, launching & landing, piloting a small kite on the beach, practising with a bigger inflatable kite in the water, body dragging.
7 Hours Course
Get up & get moving: An introduction to the basic techniques of KITE SURFING.
Includes: everything of the 3 hours course + water relaunch, self rescue, waterstart and first riding attempt.
10 Hours Course
Go upwind: Learn how to ride your board safely to new horizons – even against the wind!
Includes: Complete theory, safety systems, equipment set up, launching, landing, piloting a small trainer kite on the beach, practising with a bigger inflatable kite in the water, body dragging, water relaunch, self rescue, waterstart, riding with control.
15 Hours Course
Become independent: Get in the water and have a blast – comfortably and securely, no matter where from the wind blows. The perfect stepping stone if you want to get serious with kite surfing!
Complete theory, safety systems, equipment set up, launching, landing, piloting a small trainer kite on the beach, practising with a bigger inflatable kite in the water, body dragging, water relaunch, self rescue, waterstart, riding upwind and downwind.
Kite Classes
No Wind Policy
In our group classes, we keep the ratio small, with a maximum of 4 people (2 kites) per session. We use a buddy system, where two people of similar skill levels share a kite. This method is highly effective for learning because kitesurfing can be physically demanding, especially for beginners. By sharing a kite, you get the chance to rest while still observing your buddy and learning from their experience. During this time, the instructor can also offer you personalized tips to improve your technique.
We also offer semi-private courses based on availability. It’s quite common for students to join semi-private lessons, and since you've expressed interest, we can prioritize your request.
As for pricing, a semi-private lesson of 3 hours will be counted as 5 hours from your package. For example, if you book 15 hours, it will equal three lessons. If you'd like to continue after you've completed the 15 hours, the cost is €28 per additional hour.
(In our group classes our instructors take a maximum of 4 people (2 kites) at a time. We work in a buddy system. This means that two people of the same level share a kite. In our opinion this is the best way to learn because kiting can be pretty exhausting when you start. When you share a kite your body can take a rest from time to time while you can still learn from watching your buddy and at this time the instructor can give you some tips for the rest of your session.
We can provide semi-private courses based on availability on the day. It's rather normal for there to be an option to participate in a semi-private class, and since you've already requested it, we can put you at the top of the list. In terms of pricing semi-private courses, 3 hours equals 5 hours in your package. So 15 hours equals three lessons. If you want to continue after the 15 hours are over, it will cost €28 per hour.)
| Group classes | Price | Semi-private classes | Price | Private Lesson | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 hours / 1 day | 120 € | 3 hours / 1 day | 175 € | Per hour (minimum 2 hours) | 90 € |
| 7 hours / 2 days | 240 € | 6 hours / 2 days | 300 € | ||
| 10 hours / 3 days | 300 € | 9 hours / 3 days | 420 € | ||
| 15 hours / 5 days | 420 € |
Kite Classes (Group, Semi-Private, Private)
We understand that wind conditions play a huge role in your kiteboarding experience. If wind or weather conditions don't allow us to offer your booked lesson type, we have several alternatives to ensure you make the most of your time with us.
- Alternative Activities: You can choose from a variety of activities such as Surfing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP), Wakeboarding, Massage or Yoga. These activities are a great way to stay active and enjoy the beach while waiting for the wind to pick up.
- Credits and Rescheduling: In case none of these options work for you, we offer the flexibility to apply the credit from your canceled lesson to future lessons, products in our shop, or even your next stay with us. You can also reschedule your session if you wish.
- Minimum Charge: Please note, a minimum charge will apply in the event of a cancellation due to wind or weather, equivalent to the cost of our most affordable camp, the Surf Camp. This ensures that we can continue to provide high-quality services and maintain the best possible experience for you.
Many kite schools around the world offer similar flexibility, providing a range of activities to help you make the most of your trip, regardless of the weather. Whether it’s a surf session or a relaxing yoga class, we’re committed to making your stay enjoyable even when the wind is not cooperating!
We want to ensure that your time with us is always memorable, and we're here to help you get the most out of every moment!
What Happens if There is No Wind?
Equipment Rental
Equipment Info
Learn more about our equipment rental policy:
Due to the technicality of our kite lagoon, downwind risks, occasionally strong currents, shifting tide and off shore wind, we don't provide equipment for students to travel to the lagoon alone under our rental policy.
For the same cost as a group class, we may provide supervised rental, in which an experienced instructor will make sure you understand the conditions for the session, let you know where you can and cannot go, and help if you run into problems. Radio helmet support will be given to you for the entire session.
Before supervised rental, we require that you complete an entire regular lesson with an instructor in order to have your skills evaluated.
Essential competencies and evaluation for supervised rental include:
• Proficient body drag upwind and body drag using a board
• Able to relaunch a kite in deep water;
• Able to ride a board comfortably both upwind and downwind without assistance
Supervised rental
At Kiteschool Portugal, we provide top-of-the-line, brand-new 2022 equipment from Duotone, ensuring that you have the best gear for your kitesurfing lessons. Our school is VDWS certified, meaning we follow internationally recognized standards in teaching. In addition to practical lessons, we offer theory sessions and the opportunity to earn a VDWS kiteboarding license card upon completion of your training.
Kitesurfing is an exciting extreme sport, but with the right equipment and proper guidance, it’s safe and incredibly fun. Over the years, kite equipment has become much safer, and we make sure you’re using the most up-to-date, secure gear.
All our instructors are experienced and licensed (VDWS/IKO), so you’ll receive expert tuition and advice on how to handle the equipment safely.
Included in your lessons is all the necessary kite equipment, wetsuits, and on windless days, we offer SUP (stand-up paddleboard) tours as an alternative activity. We also provide pick-up and drop-off services in the Burgau, Luz, and Lagos areas for your convenience.
To ensure the best learning experience, we use a buddy system where you’ll share a kite with a partner of similar skill level, allowing you to rest while still learning and observing.
Equipment Information
Kite Course and Rental Conditions Kiteschool Portugal
Health and Duties of participants
A course participant or renter must not suffer from any health or physical problems. You are required to be able to swim for at least 15 minutes in open water without assistance. Minors require the consent of a legally appointed representative.
Safety / duty of care
The instructions of the instructor and/or kite center staff must be obeyed. The safety and availability of the kitesurf equipment is ensured by regular inspections. However, the participant/ renter is obliged to check the kite equipment upon every session. Damages are to be reported immediately. If the availability of the kite equipment is no longer ensured, due to failure to adhere to the trainers/kite center staffs instructions or intentional behaviour on my part, I will have no right to claim for neither recover nor compensation of time lost.
Equipment rental & insurance
The kite course participant/ renter agrees to treat the kite equipment carefully and protectively. The kite course participant/renter is obliged to return kite equipment on time. The international valid right of way rules (COLREGs) are to be obeyed. KITESCHOOL PORTUGAL is entitled to refuse rental if renter does not have the necessary qualification (VDWS/ IKO). In any case of endangering other people or lack of control of kite equipment KITESCHOOL PORTUGAL can claim the immediate cancellation of the contract. For self-inflicted damages to rented equipment the guest is personally liable. The participant is not held liable for equipment damaged during lessons. The participant of a course is only then liable if direct and clear orders from the instructor have not been followed. We recommend taking an Insurance that covers Kite Accidents.
Liability exclusion
KITESCHOOL PORTUGAL and the kitesurfing instructor is liable for the conscientious preparation of the courses and events, the regular inspection of the kite equipment, the accuracy of the course announcement and the accurate fulfillment of the contractually agreed services. The participant/renter knows or you are informed here that Kitesurfing is a dangerous extreme sport and that accidents can happen even if all security measures are taken. KITESCHOOL PORTUGAL and/ or the kite instructor shall not be liable for damage to property or for personal injury of any kind.
Severability clause
If individual provisions of the contractual agreements should prove to be ineffective, this does not affect the effectiveness of the remaining provisions.
Foto/Video Usage rights
If you do not want your photo or video footage to be used in our Marketing and/or Facebook, please do not hesitate to ask the guides or kite instructors not to take any fotos or videos of your on our tours.
kite course
🪁 Kite Camp
€470
- 5 days of kite lessons (VDWS certified)
- 1 SUP tour through Algarve’s sea caves
- 1 yoga session in our garden studio
- All gear and transfers
Camp price excludes nightly stays - see below 👇
Step 1 - book your room
Minimum 5 nights (the Lodge) or 7 nights (the Apartment).
Step 2 - book your camp
You can only book your camp after you have booked your stay.
FAQs
Why The Ocean Spirits Lodge?
Kite Lessons in Alvor Lagoon: Take advantage of the calm, shallow waters in Alvor Lagoon for the best kiteboarding experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider.
Sunrise SUP Tours: Start your day with a peaceful and scenic sunrise SUP tour along the Algarve coastline.
Adaptable for All Travelers: Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, we provide a welcoming space for all.
Social & Chill Vibe: Enjoy our laid-back atmosphere, pizza nights, and cultural events where you can meet like-minded people and unwind.
Great Value: With our flexible dates and discounted packages, we make it easy for you to experience everything the Algarve has to offer at an affordable price.
Is the kitesurf beginner level?
Our Beginner & Intermediate Kite Camp is perfect for those who are absolute beginners and those who’ve tried waterstarting and are eager to take their kiteboarding skills to the next level!
Is this camp for me?
Our camp is perfect if you are a beginner or already tried kitesurfing a few times before and want to improve your skills and being able to ride by yourself confidently. Here, you’ll learn to ride, improve your upwind skills, and work towards riding confidently on your own with expert guidance every step of the way.
What is the best month for kiting?
June and July are supposed to be the windiest months in the Algarve. April, September, and October are off-season for wind sports, so we can not guarantee that running lessons at this time will be possible. For this reason, we recommend booking an alternative course. We pride ourselves in being super flexible, so if the forecast shows sufficient conditions during your week, you can then upgrade to a kiting lesson whenever possible!
Where exactly does the kitesurfing take place?
About Alvor Lagoon:
Are transfers included between the Lodge and the kitesurfing location?
Yes. We will bring you to Alvor Lagoon and take you back to the Lodge afterwards.
How does the pricing work for kiting lessons?
Our Kitesurfing Lesson include theory and practice and you can be certified with a VDWS kiteboarding license card.
Please note that the prices above are for the hours, not the days. The days given are just average calculations for the hourly packages. E.g. 10 hours will usually lead to three days of lessons, less ore more days are however possible.
What are the refund conditions?
In the case of unsuitable weather conditions (too much or too less wind) we can give a refund or vouchers for unused kitesurfing hours. Also 1 day kitesurfing (3hours) can be exchanged for 1 day wave surfing, a trip and lesson to the local wake park, rock climbing or a SUP Tour.
Otherwise please note:
Until 7 hours you pay € 40 / hour
Until 10 hours you pay € 35 / hour
Until 15 hours you pay € 30 / hour
