Passionate riders! Would you like to go windsurfing in Greece? Between June and September, the Meltem (or Meltemi) blows generously over Greek windsurfing spots. It offers ideal conditions, with winds ranging from 15 to 40 knots, depending on the day and coastline effects. However, if it rushes between two islands, its power is increased tenfold, as between Rhodes and Karpathos. Greek spots are often suitable for all levels of practice. Although the majority of sailing sites are freeride-oriented, there are also wave spots. So here are our top 5 sailing spots in Greece.
1 – Windsurfing in Lefkada
A change of scenery and planning are guaranteed on the island of Lefkada! Located in the Ionian Sea, Lefkada offers more than ideal conditions for windsurfers, with thermals and sheltered bays.
Discover the idyllic beach of Vasiliki, on the island’s south coast. It is renowned for its steady winds and is recommended for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Come with family or friends, it’s a popular vacation destination. Charming accommodation. And there are plenty of sites to delight you, such as Nydri, Agios Nikitas and Sivota.
- Where can you windsurf in Lefkada? Vasiliki is considered one of the world’s best sailing sites. Despite the strong afternoon winds, the waters are often flat, ideal for windsurfing. At Agios Ioannis beach, the water is a little deeper and you’ll find higher waves, making it more suitable for kitesurfing than windsurfing;
- You can rent a board or learn to windsurf with the clubs and schools that offer courses and workshops, particularly in Vasiliki.
2 – Windsurfing in Paros
Dive into the turquoise waters of the Cyclades and Paros and set off for planning under the constant winds. The Golden Beach spot offers this intoxicating combo. Are you a beginner? Or would you like to improve your skills? Then contact the windsurfing schools in situ on the beaches of Paros.
- To rent a windsurf board, you’ll find several rental companies on Golden Beach, including Force 7 and Golden Beach Surf Club. They also offer windsurfing lessons.
- For beginners, you can learn to windsurf on Antiparos. The perfect opportunity to discover this charming little island next to Paros ;
- Accommodation in Paros: choose cosy accommodation.
3 – Sailing on the Athenian Riviera
After a few historical and gastronomic excursions in Athens, set sail for Varkiza Bay on the southwest coast! Ideal for a family outing, it is home to a seaside resort and a watersports club. Among the beaches closest to Athens, you can also ride at Schinias on the northeast coast and at Artemida-Loutsa.
- To get to the beaches of the Athenian Riviera, several are easily accessible by public transport;
- To rent a windsurf board or take a windsurfing lessonsIf you’re interested in windsurfing, go to Yasurfaki Windsurf School on Varkiza beach; or on the east coast at Schinias on Moraitis beach with the Moraitis Beach club and Salty Wave; and also several clubs and rental companies towards Loutsa-Artemida.
4 – The island of Rhodes for riding
As every windsurfer knows, Rhodes Island is the best spot for teasing the Meltem between 22° and 28° from May to October: what else? The best beaches are Ixia, Theologos and Prasonisi. Enjoy the strong winds and waves of the Aegean Sea. And if you’re just starting out, the calm waters of the lagoon are best.
- If you’re a forward-thinking kind of person, it’s a good idea to rent a windsurfer in advance;
- Windsurfing lessons are also available in Ixia Bay or from Theologos beach !
- If the wind drops, explore Rhodes’ most beautiful sites;
- And when it comes to accommodation in Rhodes, there’s something to suit every budget.
5 – Windsurfing on the island of Kos
Gliding is a Greek way of life: Meltem, softness, warmth… Come and ride, beginners or experienced windsurfers, on this island in eastern Greece. The island of Kos is 15 km from the Turkish shore and the beaches of Bodrum. It’s particularly popular, as it features a channel between the 2 lands that helps accelerate the wind. What’s more, Mastichari beach stands out for its steady winds and shallow waters.
- You will find various surfboard rental companies near the beaches of Marmari, such as Fun2Fun or Marmari Windsurfing Center, or Horizon Surfing Center Kos in Mastichari, or Watersports Kos in Psalidi ;
- To begin or improve your skills, you can also take windsurfing lessons;
- Here are our tips for getting there;
- As well as good places to stay on the island of Kos.
Everything is in place to make the most beautiful plans of your life: steady winds, beautiful temperatures, nothing to complain about! The Greek islands are a windsurfing paradise. They offer ideal conditions with sunshine, warm air and magnificent seas.
Read our tips in our articles :
- if you’re more into kitesurfing: Kitesurfing in Greece
Article written by Stéphanie G.
