Review Author: freekbeekhuizen, Netherlands

Review Date: 07 Sep 2018

Review Body: In short; we would definitely come back here again so I think that says it all!:) We read the reviews on TripAdvisor beforehand and decided to go. To give our of the place and the positives and negatives we read about beforehand see below. Positives mentioned in reviews of other people: - Great kite surf spot: for 2 beginners we very much liked the spot. The lagoon is shallow so you can stand everywhere. When we where there, the wind was good everyday for a full week. When in trouble the instructor can help you out or otherwise they have a boat to rescue you. Lagoon is 10 min away from camp and you go by truck. There is a 3 hour session in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon. We only did the morning sessions and relaxed in the afternoon. Instructors are of good quality and pleasant to work with! They speak a lot of EU languages if you don’t want an English speaking instructor. - Great vibe: absolutely true! Great people and great atmosphere. - Food: food is of decent quality especially the days that they cook Sri Lankan / Indian food. In the morning it is a bit basic with bread, egg, cereal and some fruit. Some pancakes would be a great thing to add. - Accommodation: we really liked the garden Bungalow but the whole camp is nicely set-up! Negatives mentioned in other reviews: - beach full of rubbish: disagree! Yes there is some plastic on the beach but much less then we expected. The owners try hard to clean the beach. It partly comes from India and it is not that the camp doesn’t look after itself. They try to be fully sustainable and a Dutch couple is now working there to make this happen in next 2 years or so. - You need to pay commission on everything: partly true. A massage is extra indeed but it is done by two blind people and they do a great job. They learned it in Japan for 2 years via a special program to help blind people find a job. We got laundry for free. Drinks at the bar are extra (coffee, thee and water is free) but reasonable priced. Airport taxi is 70eur one-way. We looked it up on internet and taxi was c 60-65eur so a little more expensive but pick-up and drop-off went smoothly. You can choose to go by public transport which is cheaper, up to yourself. All in all we didn’t feel the commission was disproportioned. We definitely liked our stay there and are thinking of coming back next year! Freek and Philippine

Review rating: 5

Review Author: David A, UK

Review Date: 12 Feb 2019

Review Body: Im was fortunate enough to discover KSL a few years ago and now can say that I am blessed to count Dil, Leo, Mischi, Tilak, Tikiri, Raj, Ranjitha and Suji as good friends. The accommodation is brilliant, each bungalow is different, some are truly amazing and others just very good, there's lots of nice touches and each one has a huge outdoor ensuite. Ive also stayed in a tent, so if youre on a tighter budget do that, its also good. Dil has worked tirelessly over many years to build an amazing, friendly and homely camp with great staff, most guests come here again and again and consier it a home away from home. Theres lots and lots of choice for kiting, you can show off your tricks on the flat lagoon just iun front of the camp, practice in the big lagoon or head out into the waves and have a vast stretch of ocean to yourself. And thats before you even start to think about taking a tuk tuk or special outing to one of the other spots or Vela Island for a really unique experience of kiting on flat ocean and a big bonfire and beers under the stars. The food is good, they make sure theres lots and lots of it, quality is good and theres something for everyone, maybe there good be more curry Dil? Its very social at dinner times too so if you're on your own you're sure to make friends. I have to mention again how great this place is for solo travellers, I usually come alone and always make lots of friends here, sometimes Ive even gone travelling around Sri Lanka with them, and with you Dil of course!And then theres the bar. And Raj; you are very likely the best barman in the world Raj, brings a smile to my face just thinking of great times there. And dont worry about missing out on the party scene elsewhere if you come to KSL, firstly this is where the party is at and secondly Dil will be the first to tell you, and organise transport, if he's heard theres a party at another camp! And he will have heard. Clearly im a big fan of this place and I hope you are too, this is a Kite resort done well, very well and its lots of fun! Thanks guys, David

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Lou

Review Date: 17 May 2019

Review Body: Okay were to start…. First the sunsets, One word WOW! The surroundings were the camp is based is amazing. This small fishermen village with more palm trees then people, changed my perception of paradise and put it in a whole new context, this side of the country is slightly underdeveloped, quiet and green what gives it this unique charm, donkey’s, goats, tuc tuc’s, colourful homes and palm tree plantage after palm tree plantage. I loved it. The camp itself is a jungle Paradise, with a variation of different accommodation so during my stay I booked a tent for the first week, extended my stay for another week because (the vibe was amazing) in a Garden view bungalow, loved them both, this all really depends on your personal taste and budget of course. About the kiting! Put this place on your bucket list and thank me latter. There are viral kite spots for beginners and advanced riders, I really improved my kitting during my stay, the camp is one community and everyone is willing to help and give you tips! I met so many amazing people and r the staff is super friendly and are willing to help you out with anything, and you quys are funny and made my stay even more enjoyable and unforgettable. Love all the sustainable initiatives! This really is a big plus, keep up the good work. The Buffet was very variated. Although I was travelling in Sri lanka during the whole tradegy around easter I Felt super safe and still enjoyed my stay. Still recommend to go and visit!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Hannah, Netherlands

Review Date: 20 Dec 2018

Review Body: I was here solo in November for 10 days. Even though it was off-season, I got to kite almost everyday. I had kitesurfing lessons which were very good - safe, and a patient and helpful teacher. I slept in a tent - I really loved it. It doesn't get hot as you would expect, because it's always in the shade and there's a fan in your room. Also, I was afraid the it would be a commercial, touristy a big-scale place but it's not at all - it's just a lot of peple who are crazy about kitesurfing and want to do it as much as possible. It's small-scale, cosy and not particularly touristy. Other than the practical stuff, this place really is paradise. The food was amazing, the and the guests were all so nice! I made some new friends and it didn't really felt like a place where you're a guest it, rather a home away from home. The bar is fun and social as well as all of the meals which are served on long tables where everyone will sit whereever, mixing and meeting new people. There were lots of bonfire nights and the beach and there's illuminating plancton in the sea, so a midnight-swim is a must.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Flyer243226

Review Date: 16 Sep 2019

Review Body: This was my first kite trip to Sri Lanka where I stayed at Kitesurfinglanka for the month of January 2019. For me this was one of the best kitespots I’ve stayed at where it was an all inclusive camp. I didn’t have to cook, washup or clean and for me that was a bonus. The food was an amazing banquet set up for three meals a day with a huge variety of dishes, just what a kitesurfer needs after being on the water all day. The kitespot at Kalpitya Lagoon is fantastic, transport there is twice a day provided by the camp or you can kite in the small lagoon in front which is a 3 minute walk over the bridge linking the camp to the ocean and lagoon. The camp is spread out over a huge area full of coconut palms and is totally eco-friendly something which the owners take very seriously. Water, tea and coffee are provided all day and there are activities planned other than kiting for family’s and kids. The owners and staff go out of their way to satisfy your needs and are one of the friendliest people I’ve met. I’m heading back there again for January 2010 so hope to see you there

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Helene W, Austria

Review Date: 04 Nov 2018

Review Body: In October 2018 I attended more than 15 classes with KSL-yoga-instructor Marge. I truly loved it and her! Marge is a super qualified, extremely sensitive yoga teacher. She teaches yoga therapy as well as yin yoga and several other styles. I felt in very good hands. Marge made improve my posture profoundly. Plus yoga was fun every time. For me the classes were not just a no-wind-activity. I totally can recommend it as a retreat. Yoga at KSL is normally offered twice a day – at noon and at 6pm. But Marge is super flexible concerning the schedule. The location is stunning: the wooden yoga deck is built into the lagoon, in the background you can see coconut trees and the Indian Ocean and you can hear the birds and soft sounds of the shallow water. You can borough a mat (very comfortable) and belts and there is also some yoga literature. KSL itself is THE kitesurfing resort in Kalpitiya. Very professional (they also have a sustainability team consisting of Marge and her lovely partner) and super friendly.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: sillyshivvy

Review Date: 10 Sep 2018

Review Body: Me and my partner stayed here for 2 weeks in August and it was the best kiting destination we have been to! The hotel staff were so friendly and couldn’t do enough for you, the food was very good and good variety, the kiting was very good especially the trip to vella island you definitely recommend! We were both impressed by the relaxed and social atmosphere around the camp and there was plenty of activities and downwinders offered through out our stay even when there was no wind! Rajith and Alex were great bar hosts and Zac and Franz did a great job organising trips! We stayed in the premium lagoon bungalow and it was very nice and cleaned upon request! One thing I will say to anyone visiting take plenty of insect repellent and bite cream as we was eaten alive! We would 100% recommend coming here to kite as it had everything we wanted in a kite destination and more! (Just don’t go on full moon as the wind dies) 5* for kitesurfing Lanka and the team :-)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Steph N, Australia

Review Date: 02 Oct 2018

Review Body: I stayed at KSL for 5 nights. The team had everything organised from the moment I arrived at the airport. A perfect stress free kite holiday. The location is 5min Transfer to the lagoon multiple times a day, one of the only schools with beach set up - shade, drinks, kite hire and the beach boys to help you launch, land & set up. The food was fresh and tasty and varied flavours each night, the vibe at KSL was fun and friendly & staff were friendly and approachable. The kite trip Vella Island was great, the kiting out there was picture perfect. I highly recommend joining the day trip when you get the chance. The yoga classes with Marg were great, the perfect way to unwind after a days kiting. Thank you to Tikiri, Ranjit & Rajith for all the laughs and great memories. See you again next year!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Karel, Netherlands

Review Date: 17 Jan 2019

Review Body: Have spent here four days beginning of January 19. Magical kite camp with great tents, bungalows, facilities on i think one of the best locations in Kalpitiya. Beautifull home spot and lots of fun lagoons around to practice Kitesurfing. The kite school and rental is very well organized and the equipment fully up to date. Instructors are professional and really take care of you and provide good advice to become a better kiter. Locally owned with great visions when it comes to sustainability and activities to help Sri Lanka with the plastic problems. Food is good and three meals a day (every day variety) included, bar is good but little bit overpriced. The sunset spot, bar and beach is a true wonder. Would definitely go back here again!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Andrei Blaj

Review Date: 12 Jan 2019

Review Body: We stayed at Kitesurfing Lanka for almost 3 weeks, mainly for kitesurfing. The place is beautiful, very instagramable :) The garden is absolutely amazing, the beach is close. Inside KSL there is probably the best bar in Kalpityia, with cool people all around the world. The staff is exceptional, they will do anything to make your stay awesome. The food is really good, the best dinner we had was spicy fresh crabs. As for kiting, you can kite in the small lagoon right in front of KSL, or you can go for an ocean ride or you can go to the big Kalpityia Lagoon. Wind started blowing from 29 December and did not stop until we left (13 Jan). Other activities: yoga, gym, swimming pool (next door at Blue Whale Hotel).

Review rating: 5

Review Author: James R

Review Date: 08 Jul 2019

Review Body: Was recommended by my sister and as soon as I arrived it was obvious why. Such a positive vibe from all the guys and girls who worked here, and rubbed off onto everybody staying. The accommodation was perfect, and there was no better feeling in the world than sitting down at the lagoon bar each day after a huge sesh with a beer in your hand and watching the sun set as you chatted with everyone how well you did that day (or bad) Never Kitesurfed in my life but the instructors were friendly and super patient. By day 3 I was on my own and by my final day (day 5) I had a huge appreciation of the sport, already wanting to go back, An amazing experience and could not recommend this place any more James

Review rating: 5

Review Author: David

Review Date: 18 Jun 2019

Review Body: Beautiful quiet location. Combined hotel & kitesurfing school for all levels. We did 2 nights and 3 half or full days of lessons. The accomodation was basic, but great. Confortable bed & good showers. Food was good and plenty of it. They even made special dishes for my vegetarian daughter. Staff were polite and friendly and the bar area was great to just relax and chat with your family or others staying at the hotel. We are complete beginers to kite surfing and a large safe shallow lagoon is only a short truck ride away. The tuition was excellent. progressing us as we were ready and making sure we were safe and taking some of the effort out of the learning for us. We had a great 3 days.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jade J, UK

Review Date: 18 Aug 2019

Review Body: An out of the world kitesurfing camp in Kalpitiya lagoon.... A peaceful oasis in a lush garden facing the ocean. The team, both instructors and support staff are incredible, highly experienced and friendly - you will be amazed by your own progress at the end of the trip. The different kitesurfing spots, from the main lagoon to Vella would suit all levels, from beginners to riders looking for waves or flat butter water to practice some freestyle tricks. Wind could be gusty sometimes in the main lagoon. The security boat and beach boys are doing an impressive job, quickly arriving in case of any issues on the water. Tremendous thanks - it's been dazzling and can't wait to be back !!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Shankari Raj

Review Date: 01 Feb 2017

Review Body: If you are travelling alone or with family or friends this place really feels like a home from home. You will always be welcomed with open arms into a beautiful oasis of calm and nature. Nestled between lagoon and sea this truly is an enchanted paradise. The owners Leo & Dil have a strong team of thoughtful and generous people and together they provide an all round service which transcends the feel of your average holiday resort. It's earthy, welcoming and filled with like minded interesting people. So throw out your shoes and the clutter of the daily grind and get ready for an exhilarating barefoot adventure in paradise with Kite Surfing Lanka.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: be-n-jamin67690

Review Date: 10 May 2019

Review Body: I just spent the best holidays in my life in Kitesurfing Lanka ! The staff is so helpful, friendly and smiling all the time that they will contaminate you, the instructors are really nice and Excellent teacher they can give you really good advice whatever you level of kitesurfing is. This give a really good atmosphere where everybody is speaking with each other and having a good time The tente and room they rent are equipped with everything you need and are confortable. Finally the location of the camp is just amazing ! Enjoy the lagoon view and the marvelous sunset every evening.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Pierre-Olivier C

Review Date: 01 Jun 2019

Review Body: Amazing kite resort, actually looks better than the photos with cozy bungalows, several rest areas (beach huts with sun chairs, garden with bean bags and hamocs), nice yoga deck and amazing view on the lagoon. Very friendly mood with common breakfast / lunch / dining area and plenty of people to grab a beer with at the bar in the evening. Kite logistics all organized, including rentals, lessons, pro coaching, downwinds and overnight trips to desert sand banks. Will definitely come again

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Marc Delbos

Review Date: 09 Jun 2019

Review Body: This was my 4th time at Kitesurfing Lanka and I highly recommend it: - exceptional spots with places like Vella (butter flat water with a consistent wind...and nobody out there - paradise) - amazing staff, incredibly kind and helpful - outstanding coaching with Franzi from senditkitecoaching.com, who in just 3h of lessons taught me the darkslide, darkslide transition with a kite loop, to jump higher (and in style :)) and the front roll... To sum up - I’ll come back here as soon as I can!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Tim

Review Date: 28 Jan 2019

Review Body: We liked the food and the people very much. Our Kite-Coach Franzi did an awesome job, setting us up for going kiting on our own in the future. If she's your coach, you're lucky :) Everyone was very friendly, the room was clean - so an overall great experience. Only (very) little downside: the kiting school boss is kind of grumpy and seems mainly interested in people taking lessons. This kind of intrudes the "You're very welcome here and not just for your money"-experience at times.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: jean luc f

Review Date: 11 Jul 2019

Review Body: if you are looking for a windy place here you are,i have been there winter and summer, winter is my favorite, good steady wind, can kite just in front the camp,perfect flat water and some wave into the ocean .summer is different wind can be gusty afternoon in the big lagoon, but you have now so many choice to go,donky, little vela,talawila. kapalady,putalam lagoon and of course vela; ambiance is top, food delicious and some time party on the beach

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Adam N

Review Date: 02 Mar 2019

Review Body: We came here out of season so missed the wind but the location is amazing. The bungalows are beautiful and they have loads of resident artists, so loads of really quirky stuff everywhere. The staff were super friendly to us and our kids.. Theres also a beach gym next door which is great if you have any non kiters who want to do something active We will be back 100% in the windy season next year and very much look forward to seeing everyone again

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Today you will be having a 3-hour Kite Surfing Lesson.

Itinerary Description: 9am: Leave for the lagoon 9.15am: Kite Surfing Lesson 12.15pm: Head back to KSL Camp