Kiteboarding in El Nido
El Nido’s Rising Kiteboarding Scene
El Nido has become a hotspot for kiteboarding, thanks to the Philippine Kiteboarding Association (PKA) hosting their competition tour for two consecutive years. The East coast of El Nido offers numerous beaches for kiting, with two standout spots featuring kite schools/centers: Toratod and another notable location.
Toratod: The Premier Spot
My favorite spot in Palawan, Toratod is uniquely situated on a small peninsula dividing two lagoons, each offering distinct advantages based on wind direction. The Northern lagoon is ideal for Northeast winds, while the Southern lagoon suits Southeast winds.
Lagoon Features
- Northern Lagoon: Kiteable in all tides, with mostly sandy bottoms and scattered boulders. The water is clear, aiding safe landings after jumps. Protected by a reef 300-500 meters offshore, it offers flat to slightly choppy conditions.
- Southern Lagoon: Also kiteable, but may require walking up to 200 meters in ankle-deep water during certain tides.
The wind is onshore to slightly side-onshore, creating ideal kiting conditions.
Foiling at Toratod
Foiling is possible beyond the reef, best at low to mid-tide. Start by body dragging upwind for about 100 meters offshore from the peninsula’s furthest point. Use the peninsula as a marker and stay at least 100 meters away from it and the shoreline to avoid rocks. This opens up a vast foiling playground.
Wind Conditions
Palawan’s winds are generally light, favoring larger kites: 70% of the time use a 12m or 14m kite, 20% a kite larger than 14m, and 10% a kite smaller than 10m.
Toratod Kite & Windsurf Center
Toratod hosts a windsurf/kitesurf center with brand-new F-one equipment available for rental and lessons, catering to all skill levels.
Dining and Accommodation
After kiting, enjoy a meal at Toratod Beach Point, where Greg and Len have offered traditional, family-style cuisine at fair prices since 2019. Accommodation options include:
- Tents for a camping experience at ₱300/night with shared bathrooms.
- Brand-new native-style wooden bungalows built in 2020.
For accommodation inquiries, contact: +63 927 418 6796
