Aruba Hi-Winds 2026: Boardwalk's Front-Row View of the Caribbean's Best Surf Event
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Each May, Aruba's premier windsurfing and kiteboarding spots set the stage for Aruba Hi-Winds, the island's largest annual surfing event. In 2026, the competition marked its 38th edition, and Boardwalk Boutique Hotel once again proudly continued its long-standing tradition of support. As an official partner and sponsor, Boardwalk Hotel hosted a shaded beach lounge where spectators could follow the action up close. After each race, participants were welcomed by Boardwalk's Coco Café team with refreshing popsicles. The week-long Aruba Hi-Winds windsurfing and kiteboarding competitions took place from May 13–18, 2026 on Fisherman's Huts and Sarah-Quita Beach.
Founded by Passionate Surfers
In this blog we'll connect the dots and give you a better understanding why Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is so involved in Aruba Hi-Winds and passionate about contributing to the local surfing community. In short: Boardwalk's story is one of continuity, community, and a lifelong love for wind, waves, and Aruba. Boardwalk's journey began in 1989 as a small retreat for windsurfers, founded by passionate surfers deeply connected to Aruba's local surf community.
Rooted in Surf Culture
Boardwalk's popularity grew through hands-on involvement in the sport, including an on-site board shaping and surf repair shop that drew surfers from around the island. One of the original founders of Boardwalk, Geert van den Berg, remains an influential figure in Aruba's surf scene today. In 2011, current owners of Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba, twin sisters Kimberly and Stephanie, took over the hotel. Still rooted in surf culture, Kimberly continues her life on the water with her family of avid surfers, passing the watersports passion on to the next generation.
What's On: Aruba Hi-Winds 2026 Schedule
The 38th edition of Aruba Hi-Winds runs May 13–18, 2026 at Fisherman's Huts and Sarah-Quita Beach — and the programme is packed from start to finish:
- Wednesday May 13 — Sign-In Day: Semi Long Distance Race at 3:00pm (kitesurfing beginners), Opening Ceremony at 7:00 pm, live music with Frankie & The Flatz and Tsunami through the night
- Thursday May 14: Long Races at 12:00 and 5:00pm the ~20km course stretching along the coastline
- Friday May 15: Long Race at 12:00, Semi Long Race at 4:00 pm
- Saturday–Sunday May 16–17: Full race days across all disciplines: windsurfing, kitesurfing, wing foiling, kite foiling, and more
- Sunday May 18 — Grand Finale: Final races conclude at Eagle Beach, the #3 best beach in the Caribbean
Admission is free for all spectators. And with Boardwalk Boutique Hotel sitting directly across from the venue, you won't need more than a pair of flip flops to get front-row seats.
Race schedule is subject to change depending on weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aruba Hi-Winds
Q: When is Aruba Hi-Winds 2026? The 38th edition of Aruba Hi-Winds takes place May 13–18, 2026.
Q: Where does Aruba Hi-Winds take place? At Fisherman's Huts and Sarah-Quita Beach on Aruba's north shore — directly across from Boardwalk Boutique Hotel.
Q: Is Aruba Hi-Winds free to attend? Yes, admission is free for all spectators.
Q: What disciplines are featured at Hi-Winds? The competition includes windsurfing, kiteboarding, and wing foiling across multiple categories.
Q: Where is the best place to stay for Aruba Hi-Winds? Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is located directly across from Fisherman's Huts and Sarah-Quita Beach, the closest accommodation to the event venue.