Rest Bay Kitesurfing
The main kitesurfing beach in Porthcawl, one of the most popular kite spots in South Wales.
- Skill level
- All levels
- Riding
- Freeride · Wave riding
- Best tide
- Mid to low
Wind direction
Rideable in anything from south round to north-west. Never in a north or east wind: that's offshore.
Best: S, SW, W, NW
Cross-shore to cross-onshore. Ideal conditions for all riding styles.
Avoid: NNW through to SE
Anything from NNW round through north and east to SE is offshore or side-offshore. Too dangerous. Try Coney Beach instead for SE winds.
Hazards and restrictions
Western end only, and never within 2.5 hours of high tide.
Two and a half hours: No kiting within two and a half hours either side of high tide: the rocks become exposed and the beach is very limited.
- EnforcedKiting is restricted to the western end only, past the Golf Club.
- The beach can be crowded with surfers and holidaymakers, especially in summer. Give way to swimmers.
- Check with lifeguards before launching; they may restrict kiting during busy periods.
- Rocky outcrops at both ends of the beach. Keep clear when riding.
Location
Rest Bay beach car park, west of Porthcawl. Follow the Nottage / Rest Bay signs from M4 junction 37.
Access and facilities
Pay & Display on the beach; café, toilets, showers and summer lifeguards on site.
Getting there
M4 Junction 37 towards Porthcawl. Follow signs for Nottage/Rest Bay. The beach car park is well signposted.
Parking
Pay & Display car park overlooking the beach. Can fill up quickly on good days, so arrive early in summer.
Facilities
- Cafe on site (open seasonally)
- Public toilets
- Outdoor showers
- Lifeguards (summer season)
- Hard sand at low tide for land kiting
Local tips
Westerly swell for wave riding; acres of hard sand at low tide for land kiting and lessons.
One of the most popular kite beaches in South Wales. The beach picks up good swell for wave riding when there's a westerly component to the wind. At low tide there's a huge expanse of hard sand that's perfect for practising land kiting or teaching beginners.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rest Bay good for beginner kitesurfers?
Yes, Rest Bay is one of the best spots in South Wales for beginners. The wide sandy beach at low tide gives plenty of space for launching and landing. The wind from the south-west is cross-onshore, which is ideal for learning. Blast Kiteboarding offers lessons right here at Rest Bay.
What wind direction is best for kitesurfing at Rest Bay?
South to northwest winds (S, SW, W, NW) are best at Rest Bay, giving cross-shore to cross-onshore conditions. Avoid anything from NNW round to SE: that is offshore and dangerous. If the wind is from the southeast, head to Coney Beach instead.
When is the best time to kitesurf at Rest Bay?
The best conditions are typically mid to low tide when the beach is at its widest. No kiting within 2.5 hours either side of high tide as the beach narrows and rocks become exposed. Autumn and spring tend to offer the most consistent winds, though summer brings warmer water and lighter breezes. Check the live conditions before heading out.
Is there parking at Rest Bay?
Yes, there is a Pay & Display car park right at the beach, overlooking the surf. It can fill up quickly on sunny weekends and school holidays, so arrive early in summer. The car park is well signposted from the main road.
Are there kitesurfing lessons available at Rest Bay?
Yes, Blast Kiteboarding operates at Rest Bay and offers lessons for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced riders. They also hire out equipment and can advise on current conditions.