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Kitesurfing in Tarifa

Last updated:

7 Sept 2024

Tarifa Kitesurf Beach

© Andaluciamia

A guide to Tarifa's top spots and the ideal season to kite.

Tarifa: Europe's wind capital

Tarifa is the best place to kitesurf in Europe—no discussions! It's also the most searched-for kitesurfing destination in the last 2 years! Nestled at the southernmost points of the continent, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, Tarifa is renowned for its 2 distinctive winds: the Levante and Poniente. The Levante brings strong, consistent conditions, perfect for advanced riders, while the Poniente offers a lighter breeze that's ideal for a more relaxed session. On clear days, you can even spot the northern coast of Morocco, just 15km away.


But be warned—Tarifa gets very crowded in the summer, especially during peak season from late June to August. If you're a beginner, the crowded beaches and strong winds will be overwhelming. It’s best to visit when you confidently ride, or outside peak season.


When you’re not kitesurfing, Tarifa is an insane place to hang out. The small town has a vibrant vibe with plenty of cool spots to eat, chill, and enjoy a drink. During the summer, pro riders flock to Balnéario’s popular spot, especially when the Levante blows. If you can, head out on a windy day to witness some serious Big Air action!

Tarifa's kite season

Tarifa is a kitesurfer's paradise almost year-round, thanks to its unique wind patterns and stunning coastline. The Levante, blowing from the east, is the star of the show from April to October. Known for its powerful gusts reaching speeds of 30 to 45 knots, this warm, offshore wind creates perfectly flat water conditions, ideal for working on those Big Air and board-off tricks. However, its unpredictability means a solid skill set is essential. When storms hit, swells can reach up to 4 meters—perfect for wave riding!


On the flip side, the Poniente wind from the west is milder and cooler, typically blowing at around 20 knots. It’s mostly onshore, offering choppy seas and smaller waves but still provides a great ride for all levels. This gentler wind is a welcome change and can be enjoyed almost as much as the Levante.


Tarifa’s coastline stretches 35km of breathtaking beaches, with consistent wind conditions for about 300 days a year. For the best conditions, we'd recommend planning your trip between April and October, when the wind is most reliable and the weather is warm.


Water temperatures vary throughout the year: you’ll need a long wetsuit (4/3) in spring, autumn, and winter, while a shorty or even a 4/3 might suffice in summer. To make the most of the diverse conditions, be sure to bring a range of kites, as the conditions can vary significantly!

Kite spots in Tarifa

8 Spots

Balneario in Tarifa: The ultimate playground for advanced and expert kitesurfers in Spain.

© Big Air Kite

Balnéario

One of the best big air spots worldwide, with strong offshore winds and perfect kickers. If you're not launching big, this isn't the place for you—the locals will probably boo you out.

Advanced

Sea

Freestyle, Big Air

Valdevaqueros in Tarifa: A kitesurfing paradise catering to all levels of riders in Spain.

© Wake Up Stoked

Valdevaqueros

Valdevaqueros can get very crowded, especially with many beginners and less experienced kitesurfers.

Beginner to Advanced

Sea

Freeride, Freestyle, Wave Riding

Kitesurfing at Los Lances, Tarifa - scenic mountain backdrop

© Kiteworldmag

Los Lances (South)

Beginner to Advanced

Sea

Freeride, Freestyle, Wave Riding

Kitesurf spot Punta Paloma, Tarifa

© Surfwaze

Punta Paloma

Beginner to Advanced

Sea

Freeride, Foiling, Freestyle, Wave Riding

Los Lances: Prime kitesurfing spot in Tarifa catering to all levels of riders.

© Buscokite

Los Lances (North)

Beginner to Advanced

Sea

Freeride, Freestyle, Wave Riding

Kitesurfers at Palmones spot, close to Tarifa

© Total Kitesurf Conil

Palmones, Algeciras

A small beach about 800 meters long, best with east or southeast winds. Be cautious of drifting across the river if the wind drops; returning can be tricky. Parking is limited, and kiting is banned in summer. Algeciras, 18 km from Tarifa, is excellent for kitesurfing and wingfoiling.

Beginner to Advanced

Sea

Freeride, Freestyle

Kitesurfing at Bolonia, Tarifa - pristine beaches and waves

© I.ytimg

Bolonia

Kiting is not allowed here from June 15 to September 15. This spot is typically used for windsurfing and has waves during the winter months.

Beginner to Advanced

Sea

Freeride, Freestyle, Wave Riding

Kitesurfing at Arte Vida, Tarifa - clear waters and coastline

© Hotel Arte Vida Tarifa

Arte Vida

Kiting is not allowed here from June 15 to September 15.

Intermediate to Advanced

Sea

Freeride, Wave Riding

Map of Tarifa's kite spots

Other kitesurf spots in Spain

Aerial of Sotavento's kitesurf lagoon, Fuerteventura

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Barcelona Beach and Skyline

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Kitesurf beach in El Medano, Tenerife

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Tenerife, Spain

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