Guide to Gibraltar windsurfing holidays

There is more to Gibraltar than its famous Rock. The Straits of Gibraltar, the narrow strip of water that separates Europe from Africa, helps to funnel wind across its shores, and there are several great spots to choose from – both on Gibraltar itself, and nearby, especially in Tarifa. Take a Gibraltar windsurfing trip and find out for yourself what Europe’s southern outpost has to offer.

Gibraltar can see some strong winds, especially when the famous Levante winds come from the western Mediterranean and whip across the Straits. Gibraltar has several nice, sandy beaches around its shore, from which you can catch some wind and sometimes a wave. Beaches on the eastern side, including Sandy Bay and Eastern Beach, are more exposed and windier than those on the western side.

While Gibraltar does offer some good windsurfing, many prefer to make the short trip to Tarifa, where conditions are world-class. This super-windy Spanish beach is Europe’s most popular windsurfing beach. Speeds up to 40 knots are not uncommon, and there is windsurfing to be had most days of the year. Tarifa is not a place for beginners, with little in the way of sheltered shallow water. But for experts, especially flat-water speed-freaks, it is just about perfect. Those looking for waves will find some decent swell when the conditions are right.

If you’re really adventurous – not to mention skilled – you could even windsurf all the way over the Straits of Gibraltar to Morocco. It’s not a trip to undertake lightly – but it has been done!

Take a Gibraltar windsurfing trip and you’ll be on the doorstep of the best windsurfing in Europe.