Wind Surfing

Thanks to its ideal situation on the Straits of Gibraltar opposite Africa, where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet, with constant winds, Tarifa is already known as the European capital of windsurfing. The expansive golden beaches to the north of the town (Playa de los Lances and Playa Valdevaqueros are ideal for these sports). For more information see our windsurf page.

The history of windsurfing is short. Apparently, in 1967 a Californian called Hoyle Schwritzer fixed a sail on his surfboard so he could keep moving when there weren't any waves. Today, there are national and international championships, including several regularly held in Tarifa in Cádiz province like the Ballantine's Championship and the Toro Andaluz race which takes place during Semana Santa (Easter Week), which is when the windsurfing season really takes off.