Learning to kite surf like a pro would be cool. Learning to kite surf on the beautiful, golden-white beaches of Tarifa, Spain–even more cool!
One cannot visit the region of Andalucia without walking the surf of Spain’s most southern port. The greatest surfing in the world is here, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, forming the Strait of Gibraltar between Europe and Africa. A surfer’s paradise, Tarifa is a little bit different from the usual tourist attractions. Perhaps, one could say, it’s “laid back.” The cuisine is divine, the company friendly, and accommodations are relatively cheap. A regular day at the beach includes fresh air, sunshine, and a rainbow of surf kites beautifying the skyline.
The Mediterranean climate means summers that are a bit cooler than those experienced further inland to the north, and winters are much warmer. One could conceivably surf on any given day of the year. There is certainly plenty of wind; some call Tarifa the wind capitol of the world. The wind is constant and the beach is long, sandy, and amazing. A cerulean blue sky, an azure ocean, and breath-taking vistas are an average day in Tarifa. Besides the pristine coastline, Tarifa offers a thriving nightlife. There are numerous night clubs, bars, and restaurants in the area. And the city of Tangier, Morocco, is only a few kilometers across the strait.
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing is a surface water sport that combines elements of wakeboarding, surfing, and paragliding. The form started to reach perfection around the mid ’90s in Hawaii and Florida. Today there are over one and a half million people who enjoy the sport, and the worth of the resulting global market for equipment sales is over three hundred million dollars–it is that popular. Who wouldn’t want to work on a Mediterranean tan while harnessing the wind to propel over the waves in grand style and unbridled freedom? The exilheration of kitesurfing has even led to incredible trans-Atlantic journeys, and distance and speed records.
Kitesurfing in Tarifa
The Strait of Gibralter weather patterns create perfect conditions for kitesurfing. The ocean current moves the water in such a way as to form fun, but friendly waves, while there is always a wind source from the West or the East–there is always wind. Kitesurfing Spain is a must. Tarifa is a kitesurfer’s dream and the perfect place for any novice interested in learning. And there are plenty of experienced kitesurfers, like Aurelia Herpin (owner, operator, instructor, and former world champion–Kiteschool Tarifa), who are willing to teach. Learning is easy, and with a few lessons and the right instructor, anyone can enjoy one of the funnest water sports ever. One can even tailor his or her vacation and accommodations around kitesurfing lessons.
What could be a grander vacation than kitesurfing Spain? What better place in the entire world could there be than Tarifa? The truth is, nothing and nowhere–Tarifa, Spain is a kitesurfer’s haven. Conditions are perfect, the weather is perfect, the waves are perfect, the accommodations are perfect, etc. While Tarifa is its crowning jewel, the region of Andalucia–origin of the famous and graceful Andalusian horses–has plenty more to offer. Some of the most authentic Spanish dishes may be found here, as well, blended from both Spanish and Moorish influences. And the tourist culture, while present, is not overwhelming; much of the villages and countryside remains untouched and unblemished by hotel chains and tourist traps. Charming, sun-kissed villages, lovely weather, beautiful people, and a fun nightlife are all benefits of a kitesurfing vacation in Tarifa.
