World-famous since Robby Naish came to the north of Sardinia for a photo shoot in 1979, the Porto Pollo spot offers both flat water and bump & jump conditions as well as the highest wind yield on the island. Let us introduce you to this dream spot.
Journey to Porto Pollo:
Sardinia can be reached by ferry or aeroplane. You can fly to Olbia, in the north of Sardinia, in just two hours from several German airports. Alternatively, you can fly to Alghero in the west of the island. You can take the ferry to Olbia from Livorno, Genoa, Piombino or Civitavecchia. The journey takes between six and twelve hours, depending on the route and ferry. You can book with the ferry companies Sardinia Ferries, Moby Lines, Tris and Tirennia, among others. From Olbia it's about an hour's drive to the spot in Porto Pollo, from Alghero it's a two-hour drive.
Wind & Weather
The best time to visit is in the summer months from April to October - with the most days with gliding wind in April, May and October, November. With water temperatures of around 16 degrees in April, you should definitely take a 4/5 long-sleeved/long-legged wetsuit and possibly neoprene shoes. From May onwards it usually gets a lot warmer - then you can also take a shorty or short-sleeved suit with you.
The main wind directions here are west and north-west winds (also known as Poniente and Mistral), as well as north winds (also known as Tramontana) or east winds (known as Levante). Located directly on the Strait of Bonifacio - the strait between Sardinia and Corsica - westerly winds in particular are amplified here by a jet effect. You have the highest probability of wind in Porto Pollo. If it gets too strong for you, you can easily avoid one of the numerous spots in the area and have fun with a few knots less.
Porto Pollo - the spot
The causeway that connects the Isola dei Gabbiani with the mainland runs roughly from NNE to SSW and is therefore aligned at right angles to the main wind direction. On the windward side (where the wind comes onshore) you can practise your first jumps, while on the leeward side (when the wind blows offshore) you'll find fantastic flat-water conditions for heating and tricks. There are also plenty of car parks right by the dam - for a fee in summer. In the early and late season, overnight stays in the car are usually tolerated.
Alternative spots: In the immediate vicinity, usually a little more covered by land masses from the wind, you will find some spots near Palau, the nearest larger town, the freestyle spot Angola Azurro aka "Little Bonaire" and Porto Liscia with flat water and plenty of space. Just have a look in our map where you can find more detailed information on each of the spots.
Surf stations:
For 16 years now, the bay of Porto Pollo has been home to the Sporting Club Sardinia . This is located directly at the main car park, at the south-eastern end of the dam. At the centre you will find a beach bar, showers, toilets, storage facilities for your own equipment and, of course, surf lessons for everyone from beginners to prospective pros. Close to the dam you will also find the MB-Pro Centre Station by Michiel Bouwmeester. The centre offers a beach bar, a playground, showers and toilets, storage facilities for your equipment and, of course, surf lessons. Rental equipment can also be taken to the wave spots on the west coast. You can also book accommodation directly through the centre.
Accommodation:
You will find a large selection from flats to top hotels from the team at Il Borgo - They also have plenty on offer in the immediate vicinity of the Porto Pollo spot. You can also set up camp on one of the many campsites in Sardinia. You can find an overview of all campsites on the island at here . Wild camping is not permitted, but is often tolerated in the early and late season. Book complete packages you can among others at sun+fun .
Curious about other spots in Sardinia? Then you will find these HERE .
