Aruba Hi-Winds: Windsurfing & Kitesurfing Tournament
Every May, Aruba's famous trade winds — the steady northeast breeze that keeps the island sunny and comfortable year-round — become the main attraction. Aruba Hi-Winds is the Caribbean's biggest windsurfing and kitesurfing event, and one of the most exciting free spectator experiences on the island. Whether you're a competing athlete or you've never set foot on a board, this is six days of pure One Happy Island energy.
Held every May | Sarah-Quita Beach, Palm Beach | Free admission
38 Years of Wind, Waves and World-Class Competition
Aruba Hi-Winds was born in 1986 when two local friends — Anthony Blok and Ruben Croes — finished an afternoon windsurf session and decided, right then and there, to put Aruba on the world watersports map. Nearly four decades later, their idea has grown into a globally recognised event drawing 200+ participants from across the world each year.
World champions and legends of the sport have competed here — including Björn Dunkerbeck, Robby Naish, Jutta Müller, and Britt Dunkerbeck. It remains one of the most beloved annual events on the island, as much a community celebration as it is a serious competition.
What's On
The competition spans six days and covers multiple disciplines, with racing, freestyle and long-distance events for both windsurfers and kitesurfers:
- Windsurfing slalom & freestyle
- Windsurfing & kitesurfing long-distance races
- Kitesurfing freestyle
- Kite Junior semi-long distance
- Wing foil competition
Off the water: daily happy hours, live music, beach parties, and the kind of open, welcoming atmosphere that makes Hi-Winds feel like a festival as much as a sporting event.
For Spectators
Admission is completely free — just show up and find a spot on the sand. The venue at Sarah-Quita Beach sits right in the Palm Beach hotel area, with restaurants, bars, and accommodation all within easy walking distance.
For Competitors
Hi-Winds welcomes both professionals and amateurs, with categories for all skill levels including junior divisions. Registration opens several months before the event.
Getting There
Sarah-Quita Beach is in the Palm Beach hotel area, about 15 minutes by car from downtown Oranjestad. Accessible by rental car, taxi, or the local Arubus.