Aruba - Adventure Guide to Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao - page 95

Windsurfing
Flat seas and dependable trade winds guarantee ideal condi-
tions for sailing and windsurfing. Winds typically blow at a
steady 20 to 25 knots year-round, which makes Aruba the
natural location for annual events such as the Hi-Winds
Windsurfing Competition (June) and the Aruba Catamaran
Regatta (November).
Drop by Malmok Beach , called Fisherman's Huts by the locals, to watch
beginners struggle with their sails inside the protective reef and experts
glide at amazing speeds across the one- to two-foot chop about a half-mile
out on the blue highway.
Malmok, north of Palm Beach and south of the California Lighthouse, has
shallow water as far as 200 feet from shore, so when you fall off your board,
there's little chance of drowning. Out past the lighthouse, moderately
windy days produce a six-foot rolling swell. Experts like the challenge off
east-coast beaches where the winds are fierce. Boca Grandi is a favorite
for daredevil surfers, and spectators enjoy watching their amazing feats.
If you'd like to try this sport, several outfitters rent equipment and give
lessons. Instruction rates are approximately $50 for a two-hour beginner
lesson, including equipment. Those who know how to handle a board may
rent equipment for about $35 per two-hour session, or $45 for half a day
and $50 for a full day. For a week, rent the works for about $245.
Windsurfing Operators
Aruba Boardsailing Productions
Malmok Beach, 297-586-3940; www.arubawindsurfing.com
These guys organize the annual Hi-Winds event, and really know their stuff.
Aruba Sailboard Vacations
Aruba Beach Villas, Malmok Beach, 800-252-1070 (in the US); 297-586-
2527; www.arubasailboardvacations.com
This company has a US office and runs programs on several islands, including
the Aruba Windsurfing Academy. The beach villas and adjacent shop, at
Malmok Beach, is operated by and for windsurfers.
Aruba Active Vacations
Malmok Beach, 297-741-2991; www.aruba-active-vacations.com
See Wim Eelens at Active Vacations if you want an enthusiastic water-fun
coach. He'll teach you to wind, kite or board surf in record time. If you're al-
ready skilled, he'll rent you top-notch equipment and point you toward the
best waves on the island.