Barra do Cunhau

Beginners should head to the flat water lagoon or the right end of the beach, where the waves are weaker and you can stand up a long way out. The waves on the left side are much bigger, and the best part is that you can surf anywhere. The ideal time of year, according to locals, is between July and January, when the water temperature is around 26 degrees but it's sunny all year (I've been out of season as well). Between August and November, the best wind is between 15 and 25 knots.

If you don't have your own kit or want to learn, there's a newish hotel that offers kite rental. In comparison to the United States or Europe, living costs are modest; you can get by on approximately 25-35 dollars US per day, depending on how much you want to eat and drink—beers are about a dollar a throw—for a big one. There isn't much of a party scene here; it's primarily for serious kiters, but if you want some action, head to Pipa.