Kiteboarding Lessons in Cabarete
IKO-certified instruction for beginners, intermediates, and advanced riders. Small groups, professional equipment, and the best wind on the north shore.
KiteDR is an IKO-certified kiteboarding school on Kite Beach in Cabarete, Dominican Republic. All lessons follow the IKO (International Kiteboarding Organisation) curriculum and are taught by Bryan Betances Martinez, IKO-certified instructor. The beginner course is 9 hours delivered over 3 to 4 days, covering kite theory, safety, body dragging, water starts, and first independent rides. Maximum 2 students per instructor. All equipment is included.
Lesson Packages
All equipment is included. You just need to show up ready to learn.
Learn to Kite
The complete beginner-to-rider pathway. IKO Level 1 structure, delivered over 3 to 4 days so each skill has time to bed in before you add the next.
- Kite theory and meteorology
- Safety systems and self-rescue
- Body dragging (with and without board)
- Water starts and first rides
- All equipment included
- Max 2 students per instructor
Supervision Sessions
Already up and riding but hitting a wall with upwind riding, transitions, or confidence in stronger winds? Supervised sessions with in-water coaching.
- In-water feedback while you ride
- Radio helmet communication option
- Edge control and upwind technique
- Transition and direction change coaching
- Video analysis (optional add-on)
- Equipment hire available
Trick Training
Structured progression for riders who want to start jumping, looping, or working towards unhooked tricks. Filmed so you can see exactly what to fix.
- Jump technique and kite positioning
- Kite loop progression
- Handle pass introduction
- Drone filming option
- Session debrief and action plan
- Equipment hire available
Kids Kiteboarding Lessons
We run dedicated kids lessons for children aged 7 and up. Our instructors adapt the IKO curriculum for younger students, smaller kites, one-on-one sessions, and a pace that keeps things fun rather than frustrating.
- Ages 7 and up (minimum 40 lbs)
- Appropriately sized kites (2m to 5m)
- One-on-one or semi-private instruction
- IKO junior curriculum
- IKO junior certification available
The IKO Progression System
Every lesson follows the International Kiteboarding Organisation's structured curriculum, the global standard for safe, effective instruction.
Ground School
Kite theory, wind windows, safety releases, and equipment setup. You understand everything before you touch the water.
Body Dragging
Control the kite in the water without a board. Build power management and directional instinct in a safe, low-consequence environment.
Water Starts
Board recovery, foot placement, edge, and your first real ride. You'll be up and going in the same session.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to my first lesson?
Sunscreen, water, a swimsuit, and a positive attitude. We provide all kite equipment, board, harness, and safety gear. Rash guards are recommended, you can also pick one up in our shop.
Is kiteboarding physically demanding?
Not as much as people think. Modern kites do most of the work. A reasonable level of fitness helps, but you don't need to be an athlete. Most students in good health can complete the beginner course comfortably.
What if the wind isn't good on my lesson day?
We monitor conditions closely. If the wind isn't safe or suitable, we'll reschedule at no charge. Cabarete rarely has long windless spells, so delays are uncommon.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least a week ahead in high season (December to August). Last-minute spots sometimes open up, message us on WhatsApp for availability.
Do you offer equipment hire for independent sessions?
Yes. Once you've completed your beginner course, equipment hire is available for independent riding on Kite Beach. Rates on request.