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sportsEvent

Aruba Hi-Winds

Windsurf and kite racing in Aruba's steady trade winds

WhenSeveral days in May, occasionally running into early June; exact dates announced each year
WhereNoord, North & Noord
CostFree to watch from the beach; competitors pay entry fees, and there are ticketed parties some evenings.
FrequencyAnnual
Type
Sports
When
May to June
Duration
Several days
Location
Noord
Cost
Free to watch from the beach; competitors pay entry fees, and there are ticketed parties some evenings.
Frequency
Annual
Attendance
Hundreds of competitors and spectators along the beach
Family friendly
Yes
First held
One of the Caribbean's longest-running amateur windsurfing events
Local name
Hi-Winds
Best arrival
Arrive mid-morning when the wind builds and the racing heats get going
What to wear
Swimwear, a rash guard, and a hat; the northwest coast is exposed and windy
Food highlights
Beach food stalls and snacksCold drinks and Balashi beerCasual fare along the nearby coast
Warnings
The wind and sun are strong, so hydrate and cover upMind your gear in the breeze on the open beachSwim only where it is safe, as the wind raises chop
What to bring
Sun protectionWaterA windbreaker for spray and breezeCash for beach food stalls
The overview

Aruba Hi-Winds

Aruba Hi-Winds is one of the Caribbean's longest-running amateur windsurfing and kitesurfing events, held each year on the breezy northwest shore. The constant trade winds that bend the island's divi-divi trees make Aruba a world-class spot for board sports, and Hi-Winds turns that wind into a multi-day competition of slalom, freestyle, long-distance racing, and beginner heats.

The action centres on Fishermen's Huts (Hadicurari) near Malmok Beach, a flat, shallow launch that is the heart of Aruba's windsurfing scene. Competitors range from local riders to international visitors, and the shore fills with spectators, music, and food stalls across the event.

What happens on the water

  • Windsurfing and kitesurfing across slalom, freestyle, and long-distance disciplines.
  • Divisions for all levels, from youth and amateurs to advanced riders.
  • A festive beach atmosphere with vendors, music, and prize ceremonies.

You do not need to compete to enjoy it. Base yourself near Noord or Palm Beach for easy access, watch the heats from the beach, and try the wind yourself with a windsurfing session at Fishermen's Huts or a kitesurfing trip to Boca Grandi on the wilder south coast.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

When is Aruba Hi-Winds held?

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Hi-Winds usually takes place over several days in late June or early July, when the trade winds are strong and steady. Exact dates are announced each year.

Where does Aruba Hi-Winds take place?

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The competition centres on Fishermen's Huts, also called Hadicurari, on the northwest coast near Malmok Beach. The flat, shallow water there is the heart of Aruba's windsurfing scene.

What sports are part of Hi-Winds?

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It features windsurfing and kitesurfing across disciplines such as slalom, freestyle, and long-distance racing, with divisions for all levels from youth and amateurs to advanced riders.

Can spectators watch Hi-Winds?

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Yes. It is free to watch the heats from the beach, and the shore fills with food stalls, music, and a festive atmosphere. Some evenings have ticketed parties for competitors and visitors.
Plan your visit

Aruba Hi-Winds

When
Several days in May, occasionally running into early June; exact dates announced each year
Duration: Several days
Location
Fishermen's Huts (Hadicurari) beach, near Malmok, Noord
North & Noord
Cost
Free
Get directions →
This event is in Noord →