Kitesurfing Greece

Pros & Cons

+ Great wind conditions
+ Good infrastructure (airports, roads, accommodation)
+ A lot to do besides kiting
+ Delicious fresh seafood
- Water can be choppy, not many wave spots
- Accommodation can be expensive

What you need to know about kitesurfing in Greece

There are two main regions, each with different wind characteristics. For both regions, the best months to go are June to September – warm weather, no wetsuit needed, and good wind probability. To the west, there is the Ionian Sea which enjoys almost daily NW thermal winds that start at around midday and blow a good 15-25 knots until sunset. Popular destinations in this region are the islands of Lekfada and Corfu whilst on the mainland Cape Drepano is somewhat of a hidden gem. Access is easy, with airports being at most a few hours’ drive away from the spots.

The Aegean Sea is on the other side of Greece, to the east. Here, the seasonal Meltemi can blow for days on end, and is one of the few Mediterranean winds that does not die during the night meaning moonlight sessions become possible.! However, it is not a thermal wind so can die down for a couple of days at a time. Limnos, Rhodes and Crete feature some of the most famous kitespots in Greece, and even the occasional decent wave. They all have international airports with inbound flights from many European countries. Paros and Naxos are less well-known and a bit harder to get to, due to fewer flights being available. These spots, however reward determined intermediate and advanced riders with stronger winds. There are many other kitespots, but we’d be stoked to ride all the above for a start.

Kite Camps in Greece

Rhodes is a great starting point in your kitesurfing journey. It’s easy to reach by air and provides a very safe, uncrowded 2km long beach with side-shore and side-on-shore winds. At the end of an intense windy day you can enjoy the lava-red sunset right on the beach or go to one of the many bars & restaurants on the island. Those looking for a more intimate or quiet destination would enjoy the warm welcome in the small village of Marmari, situated in the south of Evia island. Easily accessible from Athens airport via Ferry from the port of Rafina, the reliable Meltemi wind along with spectacular unspoiled scenery will be waiting for you.

Kite Cruises in Greece

The Cyclades are wonderful to experience a kitesurfing cruise. The wind is super reliable and you have the possibility to explore Greece from a whole new perspective.

Accommodation for kitesurfers in Greece

Greece has a rich tradition in tourism and offers countless hotels, pensions and villas. There are plenty of options no matter which kite spot you go to, from locally-flavoured traditional homes to luxury hotel chains.

For Beginners

Play it safe and go to the more popular islands. Even in case of no wind, there will be plenty of other stuff to do and people to meet. Limnos and Rhodes are your best bets. On each island you will find large, well-equipped and well-managed kite spots with experienced instructors who can teach in a variety of languages.

Why is Greece so special for kitesurfing?

Familiarity and diversity. While still in EU territory and enjoying all its safety and benefits, Greece feels almost exotic at times and offers a variety of conditions to kitesurf – thermal and seasonal/katabatic winds, flat water spots, open sea and even some waves.

Infrastructure available

A short flight from most European capitals plus some driving or a ferry ride can get you almost anywhere in Greece. The roads are generally in good condition and there are some spectacular scenic routes to enjoy. A popular option amongst some kiters is road-tripping with a campervan- either setting up in one place or exploring different spots. Since flights and car rentals are reasonably cheap, bringing your own kite gear isn’t generally too problematic. Kite centers also offer a good variety of services, lessons and equipment for rent. As a member of the EU, Greece is generally safe and has respectable healthcare services, should the need arise.

What else to discover

Rich culture & history, naval tradition and sea-based cuisine can fill your holiday by themselves. Almost anywhere you go there is on old temple to see and legends to learn about, a yacht cruise to take or simply great scenery to behold. Social and nightlife is great and can be a real trap, so be careful to get enough sleep for your next kite session.