THE LURE: Why come to Tarifa? Wind, wind, wind! And they do! This is the busiest kitesurfing destination in the world. Luckily the huge beaches can cope with the hundreds of kites that descend on Tarifa.
Well established as a mecca for windsurfers, Tarifa can now boast around 20 kite shops and 39 industry-related businesses operating along a two kilometre stretch of high street! The whole town is a buzz with wind-inspired people, making for a very unique atmosphere. Some of the PKRA's top riders live in Tarifa, so the standard of riding is very high, but for the most part there really is very little attitude on the beaches. On busy Summer days there can be up to a thousand kites up on the beaches of Tarifa, so it's important to observe the rules and respect each other.
Issue #18 had a feature on Tarifa. It is available free online, just click here . THE WIND - PONIENTE & LEVANTE: Two wind patterns operate in the area. The Poniente wind comes from the west, right to left cross-onshore. It's super-consistent, usually the summer wind and brings nice weather. It doesn't usually get too strong apart from during a winter storm. The Levante wind comes from the east and is cross-off from the main beach, gusty and can get very, very strong. Poniente comes in for three to four day periods whereas the Levante will often blow day and night for more than 7 days. One of the reasons that Tarifa can cope with all this is because there are a lot of different beach options, so it's a very good idea to hire a car. If the wind gets too strong or offshore, then drive to another beach. And with so many different beach options comes a huge variety in conditions. Choose from onshore wave riding to classic cross-off down-the-line conditions. In Winter a huge lagoon forms in the dunes of the main beach and is perfect for flat water fun, although it does get very busy as it's so popular.
Due to the large variation in wind strengths - take all your kites.
KITESURFING LESSONS: There are many centres that give lessons to all levels and hire kit.
Dragon Kite School is an IKO centre. To make learning as easy as possible they use the latest radio helmets as well as 2009 Best kit. Lessons are run at Los Lances or Valdevaqueros, depending on wind direction. They can be contacted on + 34 660 882 710,
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or www.dragonkiteschool.com
BOARDS: Tarifa has the highest concentration of kite related businesses in the world, bar none. If you have a breakage or to increase your quiver, you won't have a problem here. You can also get one of the latest boards available an enormous amount of R & D goes on here.
Plan in advance and it will be ready when you arrive
WEATHER: Air temperatures can remain pleasant all year, but can dip to 14°C in January and get above 30°C in July.
WATER: The water gets warm in the summer, requiring only boardies or a shortie wetsuit but can feel much cooler in the colder winds in the winter, when you will need a spring suit.
OFF THE WATER There is also lots to see and do outside Tarifa, from mountain biking in the hills to visiting ancient and picturesque towns along the coast.
GETTING THERE: Tarifa is a destination where you can put all the bits together yourself. There are many options for cheap flights to Malaga especially but also Gibralter and Jerez. AIRPORTS: Malaga (AGP): Malaga is between a 90 minute and two hour drive from Tarifa. Jerez (XRY): Jerez is a much smaller airport but is only about a 60 minute drive from Tarifa. Gibraltar (GIB): the closest airport to Tarifa, only 30 minutes drive. Make sure you collect your car from the Spanish side of the border.
ACCOMMODATION: There is stacks to choose from to suit all budgets
GREAT ESCAPES
Great Escapes has a unique setting, at walking distance to beaches and views across to Morocco. Their chalets offer comfort and the perfect getaway after a hard day's surfing. With plenty of secure parking and equipment storage it's the ideal place to base yourself whether alone, with friends or family.
EATING OUT: Again there is a huge choice. At least once during your trip you must try the Hurricane Hotel. Booking may be necessary at weekends and in Summer.
CAR HIRE: A rental car is pretty much essential, especially if you want to get to the beach with the best conditions that day. USEFUL LINKS:
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