Having never witnessed this sport in action before, I didn’t know what to expect. I knew before my arrival in the town, that it was a windy destination. Where there is wind and a beach, there is sport. The best kitesurfing paradise in Tarifa Spain is what I found on the Atlantic Ocean.
Winds
There are two dominate winds here, creating a destination that is windy on average 340 days of each year! The Lavente wind comes from the east and is gusty. The ocean has small waves on these days, but the winds are unpredictable and big, ranging from 20-40 or even 50 knots.
Poniente winds come from the west, over the Atlantic Ocean. These are not as strong as the Lavente winds and are much more consistent, more predictable. The ocean waves are greater and these days the regular surfers will be out as well.
I have been out walking everyday of course. I can tell you from first hand experience, some days, these winds are no joke. Not only does it throw any debris around but it also creates air quality warnings. The particulate matter that fills the air becomes unsafe for some folks. The alerts have been red more than a few days during my stay.
If you wander down to the beaches on these particularly gusty days, take something to cover your face and wear long clothing. The sand blasting your bare skin will thank you. Exhilarating as it has been to be out in the warm winter air, feeling one with the wind, it is a little terrifying too.
Playa de Los Lances
This is the main beach in Tarifa and stretches for 10 kilometres of coastline from the city to some massive dunes in the distance. During the summer months (June 15-Sept 15), kitesurfing is not allowed on this beach. But in the off season, like now, when the winds are big, the surfers are out.
Balneario
This is a hot spot for advanced kitesurfers and the ones that I see the most frequently here in Tarifa at this time of year. Located right beside the isthmus to the Isla de Tarifa (small island now connected by a land bridge), these surfers are rad.
For spectators such as myself, walk the isthmus towards the island for the best vantage spot. Be careful when walking past Chica Beach at the beginning, for the sand will blast your face and any exposed skin and it hurts.
About ¾ the way along, hunker down, either in the rocks or on a bench and watch these amazing daredevils soar through the air.
These folks are incredibly brave and seemingly have no fear.
Other Spots
Further along this coastline, are various other places to kitesurf, hike and explore. If you don’t have transportation, hop on a local bus and see where it will take you. Exploring the dunes, the Duna de Valdevaqueros would be such a fun trip and one I look forward to.
Before I arrived in Tarifa, I didn’t really know this sport existed, now I’m obsessed. I’m not brave enough to try myself, but to watch these amazing spirited humans, perform out there on the wild ocean, is one incredible thing to witness. I’m obsessed and I can’t get enough.
