Kiteboarding is a surface water sport combining aspects of wakeboarding, snowboarding, windsurfing, surfing, paragliding, skateboarding and gymnastics into one extreme sport. A kiteboarder harnesses the power of the wind with a large controllable power kite to be propelled across the water on a kiteboard similar to a wakeboard or a small surfboard.
Kitesurfing is popular in Kalpitiya, 3-4 hours from Colombo. On one side of the peninsula is the Indian Ocean: ideal for free-ride and wave riding. On the other side is Kalpitiya Lagoon, a perfect spot for beginners and freestylers. During the kiting season May-October the wind blows 20-25 knots on average. Off season is for dolphin/whale watching, snorkeling, stand up paddle boarding (SUP), diving or a kayak tour.