Tarifa

Spain

Tarifa is Europe's kitesurfing capital, perched on the southern tip of Spain where the Atlantic squeezes into the Mediterranean through the Strait of Gibraltar. That funnel delivers two reliable winds: the strong easterly Levante and the smoother westerly Poniente, blowing most days from late spring through early autumn. The long sandy beaches of Los Lances and Valdevaqueros suit every level, from first lessons in the shallows to high-wind sessions and downwinders. Off the water, Tarifa's old town buzzes with kite shops, tapas bars and a young international crowd. Best months are May to October, when the wind is most consistent and the water warms up.