Cádiz – Valdevaqueros
Tarifa, Andalusia, Spain
Sports: Kitesurfing, Wingfoiling, Windsurfing, Parawing
Best time to go: May–October
Valdevaqueros is a wide sandy bay about 10 km west of Tarifa, between Punta Paloma and its large dune and the beach of Los Lances. The Strait of Gibraltar funnels two main winds through here. The easterly Levante is often strong and gusty and blows side-offshore from the left, so it calls for experience and caution. The westerly Poniente is cooler and steadier and blows side-onshore, bringing small waves and safer conditions for learners. July and August are the most reliable months, with good wind from spring to autumn.
The bottom is sand throughout. On Levante days the water near the beach is choppy but flatter in parts of the bay, while Poniente days bring wind swell. Many schools teach here, and in summer the beach is divided into zones for swimmers and wind sports, with launch corridors; keep to them and check local rules. Strong Levante can push riders out to sea, so never ride beyond your limits. The water is cool for the latitude, often 17 to 20 °C, so a 3/2 wetsuit is useful.
Spots near Cádiz – Valdevaqueros
- Tarifa – Los Lances (6 km)
- Bolonia (8 km)
- Lagos – Meia Praia (290 km)
More: All spots in Spain · Kitesurfing in Spain · Wingfoiling in Spain · Windsurfing in Spain · Parawing in Spain