When is Wind Season in Cabarete, Dominican Republic?
Use our mini-guide to plan your Cabarete kitesurfing vacation
The number one question we get asked is, “When is Cabarete wind season?” The short answer: “Pretty much always!” With around 250-300 days of “kitable” wind per year (about 10 knots), you can expect great conditions almost every day. And with kite foiling gaining popularity, even light wind days during Cabarete wind season can turn into epic sessions!
Now for the longer answer. While we can’t control Mother Nature (she’s got her moods), we can offer advice based on science, history, and local knowledge about the Cabarete wind season.
Why Does Cabarete Have Wind Year Round?
Cabarete’s wind season is powered by a mix of thermal winds in the summer, storm fronts in the winter, and reliable trade winds throughout the year. Let’s dive deeper into why Cabarete is known for its nearly year-round wind season:
Thermal Winds
Cabarete first gained popularity in the ‘80s, thanks to its consistent thermal winds. Especially strong in the summer months, this type of wind forms when hot air rises from the land, pulling in cooler air from the ocean. This is one of the key reasons why the summer months are a prime time for the Cabarete wind season.
Side Note: Most weather forecasts don’t account for the thermal effect, so locals tend to rely on reading the sky and palm trees instead of apps. If you’re planning your trip during Cabarete’s wind season, keep this local tip in mind.
Storm Fronts
While Cabarete is typically warm, during cooler months storm fronts bring extra wind. Storms passing through during winter add some serious power to the Cabarete wind season. Cold air is denser than warm air, making the wind stronger—though sometimes a bit gustier. Don’t worry, a good kitesurfing instructor will teach you how to ride safely in all wind conditions.
Trade Winds
Cabarete also benefits from the steady trade winds that blow year-round. These northeasterly trade winds, or “Alize” winds, are what make Cabarete wind season last almost the entire year. Whether you’re here in the summer or winter, you can count on these winds to keep you riding.
El Niño Years
Every now and then, El Niño can interrupt the usual Cabarete wind season, causing longer-than-usual wind lulls. This climate phenomenon has no predictable pattern, but when it shows up, it can affect wind worldwide—not just here in Cabarete. Thankfully, El Niño years are rare, and Cabarete remains a top spot for wind most of the time.
Sahara Dust Storms
Occasionally, dust from the Sahara Desert travels across the Atlantic and reaches Cabarete, especially in the summer. This can cause hazy skies and slightly cooler temperatures as the dust blocks some of the sun’s heat. The dust can also stabilize the atmosphere, reducing wind speeds for a short time. However, it doesn’t have a big impact on the water, and once the dust passes, the wind and weather return to normal. Plus, it can make for some stunning sunsets!
Cabarete Crowd Seasons
June-August: Kiteboarding/Windsurfing season, when the thermal winds kick off the most consistent Cabarete wind season.
December-March: Tourist season, when Cabarete sees the most visitors.
Beginner Season
Wondering when to start your kitesurfing journey? There’s no such thing as a “beginner season” because Cabarete wind season lasts all year. With the right gear and instruction, any time is a great time to learn. Our instructors will ensure you have the right equipment, and the warm waters make every season a beginner-friendly time to start. No matter when you come, Cabarete’s wind season is the perfect time to learn to kitesurf!
Cabarete Wind Averages (in Knots)
- January-April: 14-24 knots
- May-August: 16-30 knots
- September-December: 10-20 knots
Cabarete Water Temp
Always a cozy 25-30°C (77-86°F).