Kiteboarding & Wing Foiling Lessons in St. Petersburg, FL: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions students ask most before their first lesson with SA Kitesurf Adventures at North Skyway Beach.
How much do lessons cost?
Kiteboarding lessons start at $300 for a 2.5-hour private Discovery lesson. Wing foiling lessons start at $325 for a 2-hour Hydrofoil With Towline lesson. Multi-lesson packages save you money. Current prices and availability are always shown on our booking page.
Who can kiteboard or wing foil?
You should be at least 12 years old to learn to kiteboard or wing foil, and you are never too old. The only physical requirement is the ability to swim. Strength (especially in the core), flexibility, and endurance help you progress more quickly, but they are not prerequisites. We match the kite/Wing to your size and the wind conditions, so you will be perfectly safe as long as you listen to your instructor.
Do you provide equipment?
Yes. We provide the latest equipment for your lesson, including kites or wings, harnesses, flotation vests, shoes, and boards. If you have your own wetsuit, please bring it. If not, we will provide one at no extra cost. Every lesson in Florida also includes two-way radio communication with your instructor and jet ski support.
What should I bring?
Your own wetsuit if you have one, water shoes if you own them, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water. We provide the rest.
How long does it take to learn?
That depends on you. If you excel at the sport, we will not hold you back, and if you need more time to feel comfortable, we will not push you. On average it takes about 6 hours to stand up on the board and ride a short distance. We recommend 12.5 hours to build your confidence, ensure safety, and become fully independent. Short on time? We can combine two lessons into one day for faster progression.
What is the difference between private, semi-private, and group lessons?
Private lessons are one student, one instructor, and one kite/wing set. Semi-private lessons are two students, one instructor, and two kites/wing sets. Group lessons are two students, one instructor, and one kite/wing set, and they cost less than private lessons, so bring a friend, family member, or partner. A discovery group lesson has a maximum of three people sharing a kite/wing set.
What is radio support, and why does it matter?
Every Florida lesson includes two-way radio communication. You get real-time corrections while you are actually riding, you stay connected to your instructor even when you are half a mile away, and you can focus on the kite or wing and the board while you hear clear, step-by-step instructions.
Why should I take kiteboarding lessons from an IKO-affiliated school?
IKO, the International Kiteboarding Organization, is the world’s largest kiteboard training organization. To become an IKO-affiliated center, schools must meet high standards for quality and safety, and IKO instructors teach a safe, progressive method that helps you reach your goals faster and with confidence. We do not recommend learning from friends or from schools without certified instructors. After your course you receive an IKO member card, which lets you rent equipment from any IKO-affiliated center in the world.
What if there is not enough wind?
If we reschedule your lesson because of wind or weather conditions, there is no penalty. Kiteboarding students can also choose a 1.5-hour wakeboarding lesson for $225 on no-wind days.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel 24 hours or more before your lesson, you will be rescheduled without penalty. If you cancel less than 24 hours but more than 4 hours before, there is an $80 cancellation fee and we will re-book your lesson. If you cancel 4 hours or less before, the entire price of the lesson is charged. Unused lessons are honored for 1 year from the purchase date.
Can I give a lesson as a gift?
Yes. Gift certificates are available for kiteboarding Discovery ($300) and wing foiling ($350). Choose a placeholder date at checkout, and once we receive payment we will email you a printable gift certificate.
When and where do you teach in St. Petersburg?
We teach at North Skyway Beach in St. Petersburg from October to May, 7 days a week when it is windy. Our hours are 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Students come from across Tampa Bay, including Bradenton (about 22 minutes), Sarasota (about 40 minutes), and Clearwater (about 40 minutes).
Do you teach during the summer?
Yes. From June to September we teach kiteboarding and wing foiling in the Columbia River Gorge in Lyle, Washington, with boat-supported lessons.
How do I book a lesson?
Book online, call us at +1 833 879 5483, or email sakitesurf@gmail.com.