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sportsEvent

Cabarete Kite Festival (Master of the Ocean)

Five sports, one champion, legendary waves

WhenSeptember 16-20, 2026
WhereCabarete, North Coast
CostFree event
FrequencyAnnual
Type
Sports
When
September 16-20, 2026
Duration
5 days
Location
Cabarete
Cost
Free
Frequency
Annual
Attendance
No official figure published
Family friendly
Yes
First held
2003
Local name
Master of the Ocean
Best arrival
Morning for competitions
What to wear
Beach clothes and sunscreen
Food highlights
Kite Beach restaurantsFresh coconut water
Warnings
Strong winds (it's Kite Beach!)Strong sun exposure
What to bring
SunscreenCameraCash for food/drinks
The overview

About Master of the Ocean

Master of the Ocean is one of the world's most unique water sports competitions, held at Cabarete's legendary Kite Beach. Founded in 2003 by German waterman Marcus Böhm as the "Ironman of water sports", it asks competitors to prove themselves across every discipline rather than one. The contest now runs five: surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and wingfoiling, the last added as the sport grew.

This format celebrates Cabarete's position as one of the world's most versatile water sports destinations. The town's consistent trade winds, reef-protected bay, and wave breaks make it ideal for all of them. The "Master" title goes to the athlete who performs best across the full set.

On the day

What to Expect

Master of the Ocean runs for approximately five days and offers:

  • World-class competition — International athletes competing at the highest level
  • Beach atmosphere — Spectating from Kite Beach with food, drinks, and music
  • Five different sports — Each day features different disciplines depending on conditions
  • Free to watch — The competition is free for spectators
  • After-parties — Cabarete's nightlife scene hosts event parties throughout the week
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Can spectators watch for free?

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Yes, spectating at Master of the Ocean is completely free. The competition takes place on Kite Beach in Cabarete, and you can watch from the sand. Some beachfront restaurants and bars offer prime viewing spots where you can order food and drinks while watching the action.

Which sports are included?

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The contest now runs five disciplines: surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and wingfoiling. It launched in 2003 with four, and wingfoil was added as the sport took off. The "Master of the Ocean" title goes to the athlete who performs best across the whole set, which is what makes it one of the most demanding multi-sport events in water sports.
Plan your visit

Cabarete Kite Festival (Master of the Ocean)

When
September 16-20, 2026
Duration: 5 days
Location
Kite Beach, Cabarete, Cabarete
North Coast
Cost
Free
This event is in Cabarete