Fly High
Kiteboarding
School

Kiteboarding & Kitesurfing Lessons on the Gold Coast
with an IKO-Certified Instructor.

Photo by Zephyr Tours

Ready to ride the wind and discover the thrill of kiteboarding? My name is Maya and I’m all about creating unforgettable experiences on the water. Whether you’re a total beginner or an advanced rider looking to level up, my IKO-certified lessons are designed to keep you safe, confident, and stoked every step of the way.

Based on the beautiful Gold Coast, I’m here to help you unlock your kiteboarding potential and join a global community of wind chasers. Book your lesson today and let’s get you hooked on the ultimate adrenaline-filled adventure!

Fly High Kiteboarding School Assisted Kite Launch

Beginner & Refresher

  • Discovery Session

    • Duration: 2 hours

    • Price: $200

    Introductory lesson to kiteboarding fundamentals like safety systems and practical kite flying.

    Beginner Course

    • Duration: 2 hours

    • Price: $200

    Build foundational skills to prepare for water-based kiteboarding.

    Refresher Course

    • Duration: 2 hours

    • Price: $200

    Get back on track with a recap of key skills and safety systems.

  • Ultimate Beginner Package*

    • Duration: 8 hours (minimum of 2-hour sessions)

    • Price: $650 (save $150)
      This package covers all the essential skills to build your kiteboarding foundation. You’ll learn kite setup, safety systems, body dragging, steady pull, and water starts.

      These sessions are designed to help you develop confidence and progress toward independent riding at your own pace. IKO certification is available upon meeting skill requirements.

    Discovery Package*

    • Duration: 5.5 hours

    • Price: $500 (save $50)
      This package combines the Discovery Session and Beginner Course for a comprehensive start. You’ll master kite control, safety systems, body dragging, and steady pull, progressing toward water starts and independent riding.

    Fly High Series

    • Duration: 10 hours (minimum of 2-hour sessions)

    • Price: $800 (save $200)
      The ultimate flexible package, the Fly High Series is perfect for any level. Sessions are customised to your goals, whether you’re just starting out, refining skills, or mastering tricks.

    *Learning outcomes depend on your individual progression during the lessons, as everyone’s kiteboarding journey is unique.

Fly High Kiteboarding Intermediate Lessons Riding Upwind

Intermediate

  • Intermediate Session

    • Duration: 2 hours

    • Price: $200

    This course is designed to get you comfortable in the water. You’ll learn water relaunch, body dragging upwind and with a board, steady pull exercises, and water starts. The session also focuses on developing a controlled stop, essential for safe riding. These skills are the foundation for independent kiteboarding.

  • Independent Package

    • Duration: 5.5 hours (minimum of 1.5-hour sessions)

    • Price: $500 (includes a $50 discount)

    For students with Intermediate-level skills, this package focuses on advanced independence. Learn speed control, upwind riding, sliding transitions, toe-side riding, self-launch, and self-rescue techniques, including deep-water pack down. Certification is available upon demonstrating required skills.

    Fly High Series

    • Duration: 10 hours (minimum of 2-hour sessions)

    • Price: $800 (includes a $200 discount)

    Take your kiteboarding skills to the next level with our Fly High Series. Perfect for any level, these flexible sessions are tailored to your goals, ensuring steady progress, whether you're just starting out, refining techniques, or mastering advanced tricks.

Fly High Kiteboarding Advanced Lessons Jumps

Advanced

  • Advanced Session

    • Duration: 2 hours

    • Price: $200

    Take your kiteboarding to the next level with advanced techniques tailored to experienced riders. This lesson includes basic jumps, jumps with grabs, jump transitions, power jibes, rider recovery, and board recovery. You’ll also gain deeper knowledge of weather, tides, and equipment optimisation.

  • Fly High Package

    • Duration: 8 hours

    • Price: $650 (includes a $150 discount)

    Tailored for advanced riders, this package focuses on perfecting stylish manoeuvres like basic jumps, jumps with grabs, jump transitions, and back-rolls. It’s ideal for those aiming to progress to big air riding or enhance their confidence and technique on the water.

    Fly High Series

    • Duration: 10 hours (minimum of 2-hour sessions)

    • Price: $800 (includes a $200 discount)

    Take your kiteboarding skills to the next level with our Fly High Series. Perfect for any level, these flexible sessions are tailored to your goals, ensuring steady progress, whether you're just starting out, refining techniques, or mastering advanced tricks.

Stoked Riders

  • An inflated Ozone kite resting on the grass.

    "Day one with Maya was simply incredible! She made everything easy to understand, and by the end of the day, I was able to fly the kite. I’m stoked for the next session! Thanks Maya!"

    Chris T.

  • A man riding downwind on a kiteboard in still water.

    "I had tried kiteboarding before but wasn’t 100% sure it was the sport for me. After my first lesson with Maya, this all changed. I felt much more confident and motivated. Now I’m hooked to the sport and can’t wait to keep learning with Fly High Kiteboarding—advanced techniques, jumps, tricks & riding waves!"

    Jan M.

  • A man learning how to body drag in water with a kite in the air.

    "Body dragging was tricky at first but by the end of the session, I was confidently controlling the kite in the water. Such an awesome feeling! Thanks Maya & Fly High Kiteboarding for a great session today!"

    Alex R.

ABOUT ME

A woman doing a trick on a kiteboard

Hi, I’m Maya, your IKO-certified kiteboarding instructor! I’ve been chasing the wind for over 7 years, but my love for water sports started way before that, growing up in Europe with my dad, a windsurfing slalom racer.

I’m here to share my passion for kiteboarding and help you feel the stoke of riding the wind. Whether you’re new to the sport or looking to level up, I’ll make sure you’re safe, confident, and having an epic time on the water.

Why Choose Fly High Kiteboarding?

IKO-Certified Instructors and more…

Learn with globally recognised instructors plus earn an IKO certification valid worldwide, giving you the freedom to kiteboard or hire gear anywhere on the planet.

Personalised Lessons for Every Rider

Tailored sessions to suit your skill level and goals, ensuring the best learning experience for every rider, with lessons held on the calm Broadwater or at the beach.

Proven Teaching Methodology

Our lessons follow tried-and-true techniques to ensure fast learning, skill mastery,
and a safe experience.

 FAQs

  • It’s easy! Simply text or call Maya at 0420 496 749 for a quick chat, or use the contact form to send her an email. Maya will get back to you as soon as possible to help you lock in your lesson and start your kiteboarding journey!

  • Learn at some of the best kiteboarding spots in South East Queensland:

    • Gold Coast: Including Shearwater Park, Phillips Park, Jennifer Ave (Anglers Park), and Broadwater, each offering unique conditions suitable for various skill levels.

    • Sunshine Coast (Caloundra – Golden Beach): Available on weekends only, this spot features large shallow areas and numerous sandbars, making it ideal for learning kitesurfing.

    Whether you’re a beginner looking for calm, still waters or an advanced rider ready to push your limits, we’ll choose the perfect location for your lesson. The spot will depend on the best wind and water conditions for the day—or your personal preference.

  • Yes, all lessons and packages include equipment! This covers everything you need: kite, board, harness, safety vest, and helmet. If you have your own gear, feel free to bring it along, and Maya will ensure it’s safe and suitable for your lesson.

    Thinking about buying your own equipment? We can provide expert advice on choosing the right gear, whether new or second-hand, to match your skill level and goals.

  • The time it takes to learn kiteboarding depends on your goals, natural ability, and how often you practise. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand what to expect:

    First Steps (Discovery/Beginner)
    For complete beginners, 1–3 lessons (around 3–6 hours) are usually enough to master the basics, including kite control, safety systems, and body dragging. These lessons help you build confidence and get a feel for the sport.

    • Recommended Options:

      • Discovery Session (2 hours): $200 – An introduction to kiteboarding fundamentals like safety systems and practical kite flying.

      • Beginner Course (2 hours): $200 – Build foundational skills to prepare for water-based kiteboarding.

      • Discovery Package (5.5 hours): $500 (save $50) – Combine lessons for a complete beginner training experience.

      • Ultimate Beginner Package (8 hours): $650 (save $150) – Progress quickly to water starts and controlled stops.

    Getting on the Board (Intermediate)
    Reaching the water start stage typically takes 6–12 hours of lessons. At this level, you’ll focus on steady pull, water relaunch, and controlled stops. Bundling lessons or taking intermediate packages can help you progress steadily and efficiently toward riding independently.

    • Recommended Options:

      • Intermediate Session (2 hours): $200 – Learn water relaunch, body dragging, steady pull, and controlled stops.

      • Independent Package (5.5 hours): $500 (save $50) – Develop independence with upwind riding and transitions.

      • Fly High Series (10 hours): $800 (save $200) – Flexible lessons tailored to your goals and skill level.

    Riding Confidently (Independent)
    Becoming a fully independent kiteboarder, including riding upwind, transitions, and self-rescue, generally requires 12–20 hours of lessons. This is also when you can aim for an IKO certification, which is required to rent gear worldwide.

    • Recommended Options:

      • Independent Package (5.5 hours): $500 (save $50) – Build the skills needed for full independence and IKO certification.

      • Fly High Series (10 hours): $800 (save $200) – Comprehensive sessions to progress to independent riding and beyond.

    Mastering Advanced Skills
    Advanced techniques like jumps, grabs, and stylish tricks can take months—or even years—to master, depending on your dedication. Many students continue with advanced lessons or the Fly High Package to refine their skills and unlock new manoeuvres.

    • Recommended Options:

      • Advanced Session (2 hours): $200 – Focus on advanced techniques like jumps, transitions, and power jibes.

      • Fly High Package (8 hours): $650 (save $150) – Perfect your jumps, transitions, and back-rolls.

      • Fly High Series (10 hours): $800 (save $200) – Tailored for advanced riders aiming to master stylish tricks and big air.

    Every student is unique, and progress depends on your learning style, practice frequency, and comfort level. With Maya’s expert guidance and structured lessons, you’ll be building skills and having fun every step of the way.

  • Kiteboarding relies more on technique than physical strength, so you don’t need to be super fit to start. However, knowing how to swim is essential since kiteboarding takes place in open water. With basic fitness and mobility, you can easily learn to kiteboard. During lessons, Maya will guide you to let the kite do the work while you focus on control and balance—it’s all about working smarter, not harder!

  • Day 1 is all about getting you familiar with kiteboarding basics in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. Here’s what you can expect:

    • Duration: 2 hours (depending on your chosen lesson or bundle).

    • Location: A beginner-friendly spot, such as Broadwater or Golden Beach, with calm, shallow waters perfect for learning.

    What You’ll Learn:

    • Sea Environment Assessment: Understand the wind, tides, and the safest conditions for kiteboarding.

    • Kite Setup: Learn how to correctly set up and pack down your kiteboarding gear.

    • Safety Systems: Get hands-on experience with safety vests, harnesses, and kite control systems, so you feel confident before hitting the water.

    • Wind Window Basics: Start flying the kite on land to get a feel for steering and control.

    • Launch and Land Assistance: Learn how to assist with launching and landing—a vital skill for kiteboarders.

    What Happens Next:
    If you’re progressing quickly or continuing with a package like the Ultimate Beginner Package, you’ll pick up where you left off in your next session, gradually building toward body dragging and water starts.

    Day 1 is designed to give you a solid foundation and get you hooked on kiteboarding from the very start. Get ready for an exciting introduction to an incredible sport!

  • While it’s possible to try learning on your own, it’s not recommended—and here’s why:

    1. Safety First: Kiteboarding involves powerful equipment and requires knowledge of safety systems, wind conditions, and rescue techniques. Without proper guidance, the risk of injury to yourself or others increases significantly.

    2. Steeper Learning Curve: Teaching yourself often leads to bad habits that are hard to break later. A certified instructor can help you learn the right techniques from the start, saving you time and frustration.

    3. Progress Faster: Lessons with an experienced instructor like Maya are designed to get you up and riding quickly, with clear steps and personalised feedback tailored to your skill level.

    4. Access to Gear: In lessons, all the equipment is provided and correctly set up for you. If learning solo, figuring out the right gear and setup can be overwhelming and may lead to mistakes.

    5. IKO Certification: Taking lessons through a certified instructor can lead to IKO certification, which is required to rent gear and kiteboard independently in many locations worldwide.

  • Yes, group lessons are a fantastic way to learn with friends! Maya offers sessions for small groups, making it a fun and supportive experience. Each lesson is tailored to the group’s overall skill level, so everyone progresses together. Contact Maya to discuss group options and availability.

  • Kiteboarding depends on wind, and Maya closely monitors the forecast to ensure the best conditions for your lesson. If the wind isn’t strong enough, your lesson will be rescheduled to a suitable day. Flexibility is key with kiteboarding, but don’t worry—Maya will make sure you get the most out of your sessions!

    If you need to reschedule your lesson, please let Maya know at least 48 hours in advance. This ensures your spot can be offered to another student and helps everyone enjoy a seamless experience.

  • The cost of kiteboarding equipment can vary depending on whether you buy new or used gear, as well as the brand, size, and type of equipment. Here’s a general guide:

    New Equipment:

    • Complete Setup (kite, bar, board, harness): $2,500–$4,000

    • Individual Items:

      • Kite: $1,200–$2,000

      • Bar: $400–$800

      • Board: $600–$1,000

      • Harness: $150–$300

    Used Equipment:

    • Complete Setup: $1,000–$2,500

    • Individual Items:

      • Kite: $500–$1,500 (depending on condition and age)

      • Bar: $200–$500

      • Board: $300–$700

      • Harness: $80–$200

    What to Consider:

    • Buying new ensures you get the latest technology and warranty, but it’s a bigger investment.

    • Used gear is more affordable but requires careful inspection for wear and tear (e.g., leaks, frayed lines).

    • Maya can help you choose the right equipment based on your skill level and budget, whether you’re buying new or second-hand.

    Investing in quality equipment ensures your safety and helps you progress faster, so it’s worth taking the time to get the right gear!

  • The terms "kiteboarding" and "kitesurfing" are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to slightly different aspects of the sport:

    • Kiteboarding: A broader term that covers riding a kite-powered board on flat water or in various conditions. It’s commonly used to describe the sport as a whole.

    • Kitesurfing: A specific style of kiteboarding that focuses on riding waves, similar to traditional surfing but powered by a kite.

    In general, both terms describe the same thrilling sport—what you call it might just depend on where you’re riding and who you’re talking to!