Spot Guide Greece mainlandThe best windsurfing spots around Athens and the Peloponnese

Frank Maibach

 · 13.04.2025

The shallow water paradise of Anavyssos invites you to enjoy the finest speed runs.  To take a break, simply put your equipment on the line.
Photo: Beach Vibes
It doesn't always have to be the Greek islands. The Greek mainland is also spoilt by the wind god Aiolos and offers a wide variety of spots. A man who lives for windsurfing and describes himself as windsurfing mad knows every spot between Athens and Kalamata like the back of his hand. Here he unpacks: Alexander Pepelasis.

"I do windsurfing all the time, and when I am not, I am dreaming of windsurfing," answers Alex when asked what his favourite thing to do is. So it's no wonder that he has turned his passion into a career and works in the windsurfing industry. In 2020, he signed with Point-7 as Sales Manager for Greece and in 2024 also for England and Cyprus. "I try to be on the water every day because windsurfing is the most beautiful sport in the world. And I want to share this enthusiasm and pass it on." That's what Alex tells me, and I can tell that he loves what he does more than anything. This impressive fact has ultimately led to the existence of this Spot Guide. His favourite thing is going out with slalom equipment in conditions that are actually reserved for wave pilots. Okay, you have to be a bit crazy. But there's more to it than that. He'll tell us more about that here.

Even though the islands in the Aegean are among the absolute surfing paradises in Greece, Alex raves about "his" spots, which lie between the ancient cult sites of the Temple of Poseidon, Marathon and the Acropolis, all the way to the Gulf of Corinth and the Peloponnese. And anyone who thinks that the original Greek hospitality can only be found far out on the islands doesn't know the spots and tavernas that Alex and his surfer clique have grown fond of.

In this spot guide, the local presents the most beautiful and best ventilated surf beaches on the Greek mainland, which he has chosen as his top 8 after 30 passionate years of windsurfing. And Alex also shows you the best other things a windsurfer can experience there for a truly perfect surfing holiday. Information from a windsurf-crazy insider who lives where you might soon be on a surfing holiday. It doesn't get any better than this.

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The best windsurfing spots on the Greek mainland

Many of the spots presented are located in the Athens metropolitan region.  There are many more spots to discover on the Peloponnese and the Gulf of Corinth.Many of the spots presented are located in the Athens metropolitan region. There are many more spots to discover on the Peloponnese and the Gulf of Corinth.

1. anavyssos

37.719, 23.945

As soon as the thermal winds kick in at the start of the summer season, the offshore north-east becomes a dream come true. The water is as flat as a pancake and ideal for speed runs, freeride/freerace sessions under laboratory conditions and therefore also perfect for freestyle moves. Depending on the wind conditions, the spot is basically ideal for all skill levels. The offshore wind poses no particular danger as Anavyssos is located in a bay that offers plenty of landing opportunities. However, consistent upwind sailing should be part of your repertoire. Beginners should take to the water with guidance when the wind is blowing in other directions and there is correspondingly little wind.

Even in winter, the north-easterly wind still works, but it is becoming increasingly unstable and gusty, so most windsurfers prefer to switch to another spot in Attica. "Attica" refers to the region in the greater Athens area. The spot doesn't work in a westerly direction as a hill around the gulf doesn't let the wind through. Anavyssos, on the other hand, works surprisingly well in a south-westerly direction, but only in winter. Many wave surfers from Attica meet here for their wave sessions. In summer, the south/south-westerly winds are more of a light sea breeze and are perfect for foiling. The great thing about this place is the windsurfing community, enthuses local Alex. We're all pretty close to each other and always look out for each other. Many generations have already grown up and grown together in this sporting spirit.

In summer, the Anavyssos spot attracts visitors with its perfect flat water. In winter, with strong south-westerly winds, this is where the Athens wave scene meets.Photo: Stavros PeradinidisIn summer, the Anavyssos spot attracts visitors with its perfect flat water. In winter, with strong south-westerly winds, this is where the Athens wave scene meets.

The beach in the sheltered bay of Anavyssos consists mainly of fine sand and is almost 2.5 kilometres long. There are ample parking facilities right next to the beach. The surf school 4 Sports Surf Centre, located in the eastern part of the bay, rents out windsurfing and wingfoil equipment for beginners and advanced surfers. The spot is only 42 kilometres from the centre of Athens and 31 kilometres from the airport. Despite its proximity to the capital, there are unfortunately virtually no campsites here. But you can camp for a few nights near the beach. You will always find a spot, except in high season.

The choice of restaurants is huge. My favourite taverna after windsurfing is Pefka. At the southern end of Anavyssos, turn left at Diver's Corner into Dim. Evelpidos Kousia, and after 100 metres on the right-hand side you'll be there. Here you can meet locals and tourists in a cosy and sociable atmosphere. At Pefka you can enjoy pure Greek hospitality.

I have spent countless hours on the water in Anavyssos and it feels like my second home. And it was here that I met my wonderful Elena and later worked with her at the 4 Sports Surf Centre for two years, she as the receptionist and I as the surf school manager. We got married in 2023. I found my love in Anavyssos in many ways, but the greatest was Elena.

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2. nissakia/loutsa

37.991, 24.030

Nissakia is the most famous windsurfing spot in the capital region of Attica in the Loutsa area. This is where the windsurfers around Athens meet. And for two reasons: Firstly because the wind conditions are often better compared to other spots, most wind directions work and because every windsurfer gets their money's worth here. The second reason is simply that Athens is not far away and the spot is easy to reach from all the surrounding areas. So it's no wonder that Nissakia/Loutsa is the centre of the scene around the Greek capital. Even professional athletes train in Loutsa. Most slalom events and training sessions take place here, and there are also wave and freestyle competitions from time to time.

The great thing about Nissakia is that, like Anavyssos, this spot is ideal for wave, freestyle, freeride and slalom riders alike, including big downwind speed runs - but with one major difference: not at different times, but at the same time! If you start on the north-west beach, i.e. on the left-hand side of the headland, you will get a decent wave from the left. On the right-hand side, which is more towards the small island of Saint Nicholas, mirror-smooth water spoils the shallow-water junkie - or simply those who want to glide through a clean jibe.

On the north-west beach upwind of the headland, official waves roll in strong north-easterly winds, while at the same time freeriders get their turn in the lee.Photo: Alala SalalaOn the north-west beach upwind of the headland, official waves roll in strong north-easterly winds, while at the same time freeriders get their turn in the lee.

The best wind direction is north-east, but actually all wind directions work pretty well. Except west wind. At weekends in the high season, it can get crowded on the water. In addition to the kiters and wingfoilers, there are also a few water sports clubs specialising in iQFOiL for the next generation of Olympians and other surf schools.

In the evenings, you meet up at the Nissakia restaurant, where you can enjoy a beer with friends right on the beach in a wonderful atmosphere and then eat very well. The location is at the very front of the headland in front of the two small islands, less than a minute's walk from the spot where we surfed either the side with the shallow water or the N side with the waves. The perfect place to be.

Despite the sometimes large crowds, parking directly on the beach is usually not a problem. You can easily spend one or two nights in one place with a motorhome. Use the relevant apps to find a parking space. There are also plenty of hotels and Airbnbs in the area to suit every taste.

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3. xylocastro

38.087, 22.603

Xylokastro is located on the Peloponnese on the Gulf of Corinth and is one of the most popular and trendiest windsurfing spots. Anyone travelling from Patras to Athens will pass by here anyway. Anyone who enjoys waves and bump & jump should definitely take a break here. The turquoise-coloured water in combination with the light-coloured pebbles is simply fascinating. As soon as the westerly wind sets in and the first whitecaps form, the Playground is a magnet for all wind addicts. Other wind directions are rideable, but not ideal.

Depending on the strength of the westerly wind, Xylokastro offers perfect conditions for good surfers, from bump & jump conditions to powerful waves.Photo: Giorgos KarakostasDepending on the strength of the westerly wind, Xylokastro offers perfect conditions for good surfers, from bump & jump conditions to powerful waves.

From Athens, it takes about an hour and 30 minutes to reach this dream spot. Xylokastro is ideal for port-tack jumping (left hand in front), as the waves roll in sideonshore. Advanced surfers will get their money's worth here. If you love bump & jump, this is also the place for you. However, the sometimes strong current in the Gulf of Corinth in combination with waves and strong winds is not suitable for beginners as it is too dangerous. The same applies to advanced surfers: ask the locals about the special features first! Due to the long stretch of coast near Xylokastro, there are some areas where you can set up right next to the camper and go straight into the water from there. But the best entry point is at the Hotel Navarino. After the session, the café right by the water with its magnificent sea view is the perfect place for après-surfing. Sitting on this marvellous beach is indescribably beautiful.

Overnight accommodation with a campervan is also easy to find here, although there are almost no campsites. If you are looking for a campsite, drive about half an hour in the direction of Patras to Akrata Beach Camping (akrata-beach-camping.gr). The site is open all year round. Otherwise, check pitch options online or get tips from other campers. If you're staying in Xylokastro for a few days and it's not windy every day, visit ancient Corinth or the castle of Acrocorinth, which offers a great panoramic view of the Gulf of Corinth.

On a windless day, a trip to ancient Corinth or the castle of Acrocorinth is well worthwhile."

My favourite taverna is just under ten minutes by car from the spot. The traditional taverna with the unconventional name Eirones Oinopotes ("ironic wine drinker", eironesoinopotes.gr) is located in the small village of Mertikeika at the entrance to the village on the left on a hill with a great sea view. The food is a little more expensive, but absolutely fantastic. Spyros and Dimitris always have a smile for every guest and make sure that everyone feels really comfortable here. Eating at this special place after a session in Xylokastro makes the day complete, a unique experience - you won't find more Greece even on the popular Aegean islands.

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4th Gythio

36.730, 22.555

Without a doubt my favourite place for a family windsurfing holiday. The place is simply majestic. Gythio is a small, picturesque harbour town on the Laconian Gulf in the south of the Peloponnese and has long been known beyond its borders for its windsurfing qualities. It is 310 kilometres from Athens airport and 327 kilometres by car from the port of Patras. Unfortunately, there are many toll booths along the way, unless you use the old national road. There are plenty of hotels and campsites for overnight stays in the catchment area. The ideal time to visit is from April to the end of June, as it can be crowded in July and August, and then again in autumn. In ancient times, Gythio was the main harbour of the Spartan fleet, which even then benefited from the exposed winds. Anyone travelling to Gythio will pass through the legendary Sparta, which is only around 50 kilometres north of the popular surfing destination.

My favourite place for a family windsurfing holiday."

The early morning hours are ideal for beginners with south-south-westerly, sometimes even south-easterly, winds of around eight knots. As soon as the heat picks up in the warmer months, the wind direction changes until midday with a light onshore breeze from the sea, whereby the wind picks up slightly. The locals call this light wind "Mpatis", also called "Mpoukadoura" by the locals, which translates as "sea breeze". The conditions gradually become a little more challenging, especially as the swell also increases, creating a nice playground for advanced surfers. The still rather moderate wind conditions are then ideal for foiling or for large slalom equipment with 7.8 to 8.5 square metres and a 130-litre board.

Around midday, the wind suddenly dies down and the eagerly awaited westerly wind sets in, gathering wind-hungry surfers from all over. Theodore Mandalas, the surf school manager and owner of the Ocean Café Bar, then looks out to sea to the right with his binoculars to see when the front from the west will roll in so that he can immediately inform the hungry crowd via his WhatsApp account. Ten minutes later, the party starts - on the water. Attentive holiday surfers are immediately in on the action. 15 to 20 knots then spoil the board pilots. These winds are most reliable from April to September.

At lunchtime, I wait for Theodore to deliver the long-awaited wind message. God, I love these moments! The locals call the strong westerly wind "Pounedes". This makes Gythio ideal for kilometre-long slalom turns. I love foiling here even in strong winds - an absolute dream for me. Anyone who surfs here in these conditions will never forget it. I pull up extremely hard on the wind with the foil, as far to the right of the gulf as possible, exactly where the wind drops away from the mountains. The water becomes as smooth as glass and the wind is at its strongest. Then it feels like there are no limits to my speed. This is soul surfing at the limit. For me, it's not just an extreme sports experience, but a way of life, a pure, excessive windsurfing lifestyle. Pushing to the limits! That's also the reason why I don't compete. I am convinced that this is the only way I can fully live and enjoy the deep and undisguised passion for this unique sport. Competitions would take away an important part of it that I can't do without, because it's an integral part of my life.

Gythio is one of the best-known and most popular spots on the Peloponnese. Alex mainly comes here to heat up, also on the foil.Photo: Elena DiafonidouGythio is one of the best-known and most popular spots on the Peloponnese. Alex mainly comes here to heat up, also on the foil.

Gythio also regularly casts a spell over the bump & jump and freestyle scene. The coastline is so varied and extensive that everyone can let off steam as they please. If you want to hire equipment or take windsurfing lessons, the surf school on the beach has plenty of well-stocked equipment and great instructors. Theodore and his team are always on hand, take great care of their customers and help with any questions.

After the surf session, the Gythio surfers meet up at Theodore's Ocean Café Bar. You can also have an impressively good dinner there. He just knows what surfers love. The Meltemi campsite is right next door. 90 per cent of the campers are windsurfers, and most of them come from Germany and Austria. The site is full of olive trees, so everyone and their camper can find a shady spot with a cool breeze.

Gythio is beautiful and offers many different restaurants and bars in the harbour. You can walk across a narrow causeway to the small island of Marathonisi and visit the lighthouse there, which you can reach through a pine forest - a picturesque scene. Incidentally, Gythio is said to be a very special place for lovers: It is said that Paris and Helen spent their first night of love here on their flight from Sparta to Troy.

The Messinian Gulf is only 20 kilometres away by car. A stop for a bite to eat in the bay of Limeni and then a drive up to Areopoli is hard to beat in terms of variety of impressions. Areopoli is the main town on the Mani peninsula and, together with its five small villages, offers a picturesque feast for the eyes of a special kind - be sure to visit! The caves of Diros are not far from here. These stalactite caves are a historical sight that can be visited from aboard small boats. According to ancient tales, the Spartans believed these caves to be the entrance to the underworld. The gateway to Hades sends its regards.

After a few kilometres, you can continue by car to the southernmost point of the Peloponnese, where you can hike to the lighthouse at Cape Tainaron - a great experience. The 45-minute hike (one way) requires sturdy shoes and you should definitely take water with you. If you set off from the car park to the lighthouse at around 18:30 in summer, you can experience the fantastic Ionian sunset. Even the hardcore surfer becomes a romantic.

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5th Marathon/Schinias

38.133, 24.013

Marathon is located around 42 kilometres from Athens. This fact probably means nothing to very few people. After all, a runner is said to have run this distance to Athens in 490 BC to deliver the Athenian victory at the Battle of Marathon. 2,500 years later, the marathon race is the measure of all things worldwide. What is far less well known is that there is another enchanting windsurfing spot just five kilometres from the town of Marathon: Schinias. Schinias is a real jewel on the coast, especially for Athenians. Holidaymakers can reach the spot just 31 kilometres from the airport. Schinias feels like being on an island far away from the hustle and bustle and noise of a big city.

The best wind direction is without doubt east-northeast sideonshore to sideshore from the left, ideal for downwind runs. Apart from west and north-west, however, all other directions also work pretty well. The most frequent visitors are slalom, freerace/freeride surfers and freestylers. The standing area extends for around 50 to 70 metres. Winds from the south-east or south put a smile on the faces of the wavers. Then the swell pushes clean waves along. Southeast means onshore conditions that are only suitable for advanced windsurfers due to the shorebreak.

If you see one windsurfer/foiler who rides insanely fast and pulls off some amazing lay down jibes, it's John Soukos. This guy is a phenomenal exceptional windsurfer who won the 2023 PWA Youth World Champion title on the fin and on the foil. I always enjoy training with the likeable John. Every time, I realise how important and irreplaceable it is to get out on the water with better windsurfers and have fun improving your own skills. If you have the opportunity, do it. As often as you can.

Schinias is the home turf of PWA slalom and foil youngster John Soukas.Photo: Rena GiotiSchinias is the home turf of PWA slalom and foil youngster John Soukas.

If you want to spend a wonderful day on the beach with family or friends, where you can also enjoy some shade, the Karavi Beach Bar is just the right place. The owner Babis Maniatis is a windsurfing fanatic himself, a great guy who is still very active in the windsurfing community today. Karavi has certified instructors and up-to-date windsurfing/windfoil and wing equipment. In addition to the perfect surfing infrastructure, Babis also takes care of your physical well-being in his beach bar. Anyone travelling to Schinias should definitely visit Karavi. The vibe here is simply hip. Just my thing.

A few metres further on is the Moraitis Club, another well-organised surfing oasis with an island feel. Here, too, there are certified instructors and equipment for hire for wingfoiling and windsurfing - pure surfer atmosphere on the expansive sandy beach. The Karavi Beach Bar and Moraitis Beach are located south of the 2.5-kilometre Olympic Rowing and Canoeing Centre, which can be visited and is best explored by bike. After long sessions, John, a few other windsurfer friends and I always like to eat souvlaki at To Steki Ton Filon, which means "the meeting place of friends"! Après beer is of course a must. And if there's no wind, it's worth taking a trip to Lake Marathon, which is located around eight kilometres north-west of the small town of Marathon. It is an artificial reservoir that supplies water to a large part of Athens and is a wonderful place to hike along its southern shore.

As far as camping is concerned, there are a few organised campsites with the necessary infrastructure along the bay of Marathon and towards Athens: Camping Nea Makri (campingneamakri.gr), Camping Athens Motorhome (athensmotorhomepark.gr), Campsite Davis-seaside-location-Athens (campsitedavis.eu).

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6. varkiza

37.821, 23.813

Varkiza is even closer to Athens than Marathon/Schinias. Just 23 kilometres from the centre of Athens and 19 kilometres from the airport, this is where the Greek capital's surfers meet south of the city. Even if the spot is therefore often very crowded, the beautiful bay of Varkiza has the advantage that most wind directions work well here. Another advantage of the location so close to Athens is that local surfers have the opportunity to have an after-work session right after work. Wind from the north-east is ideal. The sea couldn't be any shallower. It is as smooth as glass.

If you need a bit of chop, head a little further out towards the offshore island of Pontikos and keep to the right. The wind is definitely stronger then and the swell increases. However, for safety reasons, it is only advisable to go further out at weekends when the teams are out training with one or two dinghies. Some people may find it a little annoying that many yachts and sailing boats anchor around the Gulf of Varkiza during the summer season. You then have to zigzag between the boats, which can be associated with wind shadows and wind shifts. However, it is usually a bit gusty in Varkiza anyway and the conditions are not constant. If you're up for it, you'll still have fun here.

You rarely have this much space on the water in Varkiza. The proximity to Athens attracts many water sports enthusiasts to the spot when the wind is good.Photo: Alexander PepelasisYou rarely have this much space on the water in Varkiza. The proximity to Athens attracts many water sports enthusiasts to the spot when the wind is good.

Varkiza is not suitable for beginners in offshore winds. In all other wind directions, however, beginners can also venture onto the water. The best place to do this is at the windsurfing/wing school called Yasurfaki, which is located in the Varkiza resort. The head instructor and owner of the school is Pavlos Cheiladakis, a waterman before the Lord! The school can teach windsurfing at all levels and has the latest equipment for everyone. Next door is the Nautical Sports Club of Varkiza, which offers professional training and also has a beginners' school. From here, windsurfing races in the Olympic category in the Mistral One design of the 90s, later in the RSX and now in the iQFOiL and Techno have been organised time and again.

With onshore southerly winds, the bay of Varkiza belongs to the wavers. The take-off and landing conditions can be quite challenging due to the pronounced shorebreak - only suitable for advanced wave masters! When the wind turns to the south-west, most people jump in their cars and drive down the coast to Anavyssos in 20, 25 minutes, which works surprisingly well in SW winds. If the wind is westerly, Varkiza is not suitable as it then becomes incredibly changeable and unstable. In the summer season, free standing with a camper is neither permitted nor recommended. Finding a hotel or other similar accommodation, on the other hand, is fairly easy as the town is so close to Athens. Varkiza offers many restaurants, from inexpensive tavernas to expensive fish restaurants. An excellent and inexpensive souvlaki at Zaxos Grill in Vouliagmeni is highly recommended if you're feeling peckish or need some calories.

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7th Lavrio/ Bay of Thorikos

37.732, 24.0536

Well, this spot is the exception. No, it doesn't have beautiful turquoise clear water, nor a beach with beautiful golden sand, green trees are also missing, and it's definitely not the place where you want to spend a family holiday. But for all wave freaks looking for waves to jump (port) and for clean cut backs, this is exactly the right spot on the east coast. Lavrio is 58 kilometres from the centre of Athens and 36 kilometres from the capital's airport.

The entrance is located north of Lavrio in the bay of Thorikos. You park right by the water in a large car park next to Thoriko Marina. From there, it's straight into the surfing fun. When winds of force six or more are forecast from the east to south-east, Lavrio is probably the best wave spot in the wider Athens area. Remarkably, with moderate onshore winds, Lavrio is also an ideal spot for all wave beginners. Most of the entry is fairly flat and the take-off on soft sand is perfect.

The bay of Thorikos can't convince with its beauty, but the windsurfing conditions are all the better.Photo: EDWARD ARMAOSThe bay of Thorikos can't convince with its beauty, but the windsurfing conditions are all the better.

Unfortunately, the spot is relatively small because of the bay and can therefore get very crowded, so you have to pay more attention to the distances between each other. This is where I love to ride the waves with slalom equipment. It's my new passion and a borderline experience for me every time. Yes, I know that sounds crazy and it is in marginal winds. But it's precisely these borderline experiences that push me incredibly and lead to new levels of performance. That's exactly what I'm looking for. And here I find brilliant conditions for my own personal "slalom rodeo". Together with the wave surfers, I then have a well-earned beer on the beach in the evening and everything is chic.

A visit to the Temple of Poseidon is a must for every windsurfer who comes to Lavrio to surf."

Everyone who comes here is well advised to bring something to eat and drink, which is always a good idea anyway. Especially here, however, because there is nothing to buy near the beach. You only go to Lavrio in strong winds for wave surfing. If you like to take long strokes in light winds with freeride, freerace or slalom equipment and screw a longer fin under your board, you can then surf hard upwind to the exit of the bay or even out into the open sea. I really enjoy flying out on the foil to the historic offshore island of Makronisos, which is the westernmost island in the Cyclades and lies around four kilometres off Lavrio. For safety reasons, I always have a phone and a small tracking device with me on this ride across the open sea.

After such a wonderful surf session to Makronisos and back, a visit to the Temple of Poseidon is a must. It is only nine kilometres from Lavrio and it would be a real mistake not to visit this historical gem. Perched on a high cliff with a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea, this ancient temple is dedicated to Poseidon, the god of the sea. This is the place where I proposed to my wife Elena! Probably the first and last time I prayed that there would be no wind. On 27 July 2023, I rented a small boat and invited Elena on a tour of this significant ancient monument. So the Temple of Poseidon became the cradle of our little family. And Aiolos, the Greek god of the winds, was present that day. There was virtually no wind.

So it was only natural for the two of us to celebrate our love at the nearby Legrena restaurant Theodoros & Eleni, an insider tip. Almost only Greeks meet here to enjoy the best N food far and wide. It's definitely a little more expensive, but totally justified. There are even Athenians who travel the 50 kilometres or so to Legrena just to be pampered at Theodoros & Eleni. Insiders swear by the mussels cooked in wine and garlic or the delicious fish soup and incredibly crispy prawns.

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8th Galazia Akti

37.800, 23.869

This is definitely a secret spot, and when it comes to the pure beauty of nature, Galazia Akti is definitely a special place. Like some of the other spots already mentioned, Galazia Akti is located on the main coast of Athens, the so-called Souniou Avenue, which lies on the Saronic Gulf. Unlike Anavyssos and Varkiza, Galazia Akti works surprisingly well with north-westerly and westerly winds. The north-westerly wind blows from the right parallel to the beach, while the westerly wind blows diagonally onshore.

In north-westerly and westerly winds, the water is quite choppy and in stronger winds it can get pretty choppy, but it's ideal for long downwind runs with a welcome wave boost that adds another knot of speed on top. You can let the board run for kilometres; if you want, all the way to the island of Pontikos, as the wind is even stronger there. Surfing closer to Varkiza is a bad idea, as the headland of Varkiza blocks the west or north-west wind. But the island of Pontikos is so far out that it doesn't get any lee. I have to go here again and again. It's so unique! Please remember to always keep an eye on when the wind dies down in an offshore easterly wind. Because as soon as the first signs become noticeable, it's time to return to the beach immediately, as the wind then dissipates quickly. You shouldn't go far out in such conditions anyway.

Only a few locals can be found in Galazia Akti from time to time. Most Athenians are completely unaware of the existence of this special spot. During many of my sessions, I was completely alone on the water, which has a beauty all of its own. The term "soul surfing" could have been coined here. But for safety reasons, you should take precautions. So if you are planning to go out on the water in Galazia Akti, you should have a GPS and a communication device with you, otherwise at least stay close to the shore.

In north-westerly winds the foil goes under the board, in strong south-easterly winds it can be three or four small fins.Photo: Panagiotis AlevrasIn north-westerly winds the foil goes under the board, in strong south-easterly winds it can be three or four small fins.

The spot is not suitable for beginners. Currents can occur here and the water is only a few metres deep. The beach consists mainly of golden sand and the water could not be more crystal clear. There are a few large stone slabs in the shallow water along the beach, where there is a risk of slipping. Take care with your fins here too! As the westerly wind starts early in the morning and dies down completely by midday, only early risers will get their money's worth here. It is advisable to check the weather forecast from the evening before. If you are planning a long session, you should be on the beach by eight o'clock, or ten o'clock at the latest. I promise you: it's worth it!

The spot is ideal for freeride, slalom and foil in light winds, but in strong winds it's best to use wave equipment with a quad and thruster setup. I, however, prefer hardcore slalom. Back on the beach, I know where my limits are. Each time I have to push them a little in my favour. The spot is ideal for westerly and northerly winds, but it's also fantastic in south-easterly winds. South-west, on the other hand, is a no-go, as the waves can get big with a lot of white water and no wind coming through at the same time.

With a south-easterly wind, the swell pushes large waves with a strong current. This is ideal for wave riding. Or for slalom runs between the waves, if you're crazy enough. It is important to know that some surfers sometimes gather on the right-hand side of Galazia Akti. At your own speed, it can be difficult to see the surfers while they are waiting to catch a wave. It is therefore always best to stay on the left-hand side as a windsurfer. Galazia Akti also works in north-easterly winds, especially in summer when the wind is more constant. However, larger boards and sails are then required as the offshore wind is not as strong.

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Spot Info Greece Mainland

General windsurfing information

Greece is one of the top windsurfing destinations in Europe, especially in summer. The Cyclades islands (e.g. Paros, Naxos and Mykonos) and the Dodecanese (Rhodes, Kos, Karpathos) are particularly popular. But there are also many good windsurfing spots on Crete in the south and Lefkada in the north. The secret behind the popularity is the strong Summer wind Meltemiwhich provides fairly fast air, especially in the Cyclades and the Dodecanese. However, the islands can only be reached by plane or a long ferry journey in your own car or camper van.

In contrast, the spots in this guide are not spoilt by the classic Meltemi, but can still boast impressive wind statistics. Thermal reinforcements in particular ensure a good draught at some spots.

Journey

If you want to travel to the Peloponnese or the Athens region, you have several options. Of course, many airlines fly to Athens from numerous German airports, but Condor, for example, also flies to Kalamata at favourable prices. However, travelling by motorhome is probably the more popular and practical option. It is just under 2,500 kilometres from Frankfurt to Athens. However, the ferry connections from Italy (Venice, Ancona, Brindisi) to Greece (Patras, Igoumenitsa) make travelling to and from Athens much easier.

Living and camping

If you don't have your accommodation with you, you will find everything from simple flats to luxurious hotels, especially in the Athens region. You will quickly find what you are looking for via the usual booking portals. In the high season in July and August, supply is scarce and prices skyrocket.

As in many countries, wild camping is generally prohibited in Greece. Regular checks are carried out, especially in the high season and at tourist hotspots, and fines are also imposed. Somewhat off the main tourist routes and in the low season, overnight stays in motorhomes are tolerated in many places. If you don't set up all your camping equipment including awning, tables and chairs and leave the pitches clean, you have little to fear. However, there are also a large number of motorhome pitches and campsites right by the water. Especially on the Peloponnese. You will find some direct recommendations in the spot descriptions.

Material and neoprene

Freeriders in particular will get their money's worth at the spots in this guide. There is also a lot of foiling around Athens. Sails between six and eight square metres should definitely be in your luggage. With a bit of luck, holidaymakers can also catch good wave days at some spots. Temperatures in the summer months easily approach 30 degrees (air). The water warms up to a good 25 degrees. But even in the early and late season, you can expect air temperatures of over 20 degrees and water temperatures of around 20 degrees. This means that, depending on how warm you feel, a short-sleeved neo, shorty or even a lycra in summer will suffice.

And what else?

Throughout the region, history literally jumps out at you. The Greek myths, gods and historical sites seem to be omnipresent. In the spot descriptions you will find a few destinations worth visiting on a slack day. Directly in Athens, practically right behind the airport, you will also find another spot on Artemis Beach with the Tony Frey Windsurfing Club. Tony is a former Worldcupper and Olympian. tonyfrey.com


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