The Wind

Tarifa is a world famous venue for both windsurfing and kitesurfing, often referred to as the “Wind Capital of Europe.” With it’s constant winds, over 7 miles of white sandy beaches, deep blue water and three thousand hours of sunlight per year, it makes a great all year round destination.

There are two prevailing winds; the ‘Levante’ (Easterly), is a stronger warmer wind, which blows cross-offshore from the left creating flatter water conditions. The ‘Poniente’ blows cross on shore from the Atlantic Ocean producing waves and is more predominant in Autumn and Spring. The wind is generally strongest in the afternoons.

Kitesurfing

The large, wide beaches are a perfect launch site for kitesurfing. There are many different locations to choose from along the coast especially in the Winter when the beaches are quieter. Hiring a car will enable you to make full use of the different spots. If the wind is Easterly, or in July and August the best spots for kitesurfing are Dos Mares or Valdevaqueros, which is the safest area in Tarifa.

There are over fifteen kitesurfing schools if you require lessons or kit rental. However bringing your own kit couldn’t be easier (see getting there section). The Skyriders centre is based at Valdevaqueros for more information go to Club Mistral.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing put Tarifa on the map many years ago, and is still popular today. The fabulous sandy beaches and gently curving bays offer a fantastic play ground to improve your skills. Bring your own kit to make use of the different spots (see getting there section), or hire from the Club Mistral which is based at Valdevaqueros (Las Dunas). Club Mistral offer group or private instruction (available on request), and have a wide choice of North Sails and Mistral boards.

Other centres are also available for rental and lessons.