Salento: The Wind Paradise

From the turquoise waters of the Ionian coast to the wild waves of the Adriatic. Discover why the 'Heel of Italy' is the ultimate destination for kitesurfers.

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Welcome

The European Capital of Board Sports

Salento, the extreme tip of the heel of the Italian boot, is a peninsula bathed between two seas: the Adriatic to the east, the Ionian to the west. This unique geography creates an unparalleled playground for kitesurfing, with navigable wind practically every day of the year.

Here, the thermal winds of the Maestrale intertwine with the Sirocco and the Tramontana to offer a diversity of conditions found nowhere else in the Mediterranean. From the flat waters of Porto Cesareo to the powerful waves of Frassanito, every rider finds their ideal spot.

Beyond the wind, Salento is also millenary culture, Lecce's baroque, Puglia's gastronomy, southern hospitality, and a growing ecological commitment to preserve its wild coasts. Discover how the region combines passion for kite and respect for the environment.

Advantages

Why Choose Salento

A unique combination of wind, safety and infrastructure that makes it the number 1 kite destination in the Mediterranean.

Multi-Directional Winds

Peninsula between two seas = wind on both sides. When the Adriatic calms down, the Ionian activates. You ride every day, whatever the wind.

300+ Days of Wind

Unique microclimate in the Mediterranean. From May to October, thermal winds are almost daily.

Top Safety

Strict marking of kite zones, coastal lifeguards and regulated exit channels.

Certified Schools

15+ IKO/FIV certified centers. Multilingual instructors, gear renewed every season.

Geography

Two Seas, Two Styles

Salento offers two radically different kite experiences depending on the chosen coast.

Adriatic Coast

Power & Waves

The Tramontana (north) and the Grecale (northeast) generate solid waves and a challenging water surface. It's the playground for waveriders and experienced kiters in search of thrills.

FrigoleSan FocaFrassanitoAlimini

Ionian Coast

Flat Waters & Freestyle

The Sirocco (southeast) offers exceptional flat water conditions. Shallow turquoise waters, progressive sandy bottom, ideal for beginners, freestyle and foil.

Torre San GiovanniGallipoliPorto CesareoTorre Mozza
Duotone / Core Kiteboarding / North / Cabrinha / Ozone Kites / F-One / Naish / Sev-Millau / Slingshot / Kitesurf / Wingfoil / Foilboard / Freestyle / Big Air / Wave Riding / Freeride / Hydrofoil / Strapless / Twin-Tip / Duotone / Core Kiteboarding / North / Cabrinha / Ozone Kites / F-One / Naish / Sev-Millau / Slingshot / Kitesurf / Wingfoil / Foilboard / Freestyle / Big Air / Wave Riding / Freeride / Hydrofoil / Strapless / Twin-Tip / Duotone / Core Kiteboarding / North / Cabrinha / Ozone Kites / F-One / Naish / Sev-Millau / Slingshot / Kitesurf / Wingfoil / Foilboard / Freestyle / Big Air / Wave Riding / Freeride / Hydrofoil / Strapless / Twin-Tip / Duotone / Core Kiteboarding / North / Cabrinha / Ozone Kites / F-One / Naish / Sev-Millau / Slingshot / Kitesurf / Wingfoil / Foilboard / Freestyle / Big Air / Wave Riding / Freeride / Hydrofoil / Strapless / Twin-Tip / Duotone / Core Kiteboarding / North / Cabrinha / Ozone Kites / F-One / Naish / Sev-Millau / Slingshot / Kitesurf / Wingfoil / Foilboard / Freestyle / Big Air / Wave Riding / Freeride / Hydrofoil / Strapless / Twin-Tip / Duotone / Core Kiteboarding / North / Cabrinha / Ozone Kites / F-One / Naish / Sev-Millau / Slingshot / Kitesurf / Wingfoil / Foilboard / Freestyle / Big Air / Wave Riding / Freeride / Hydrofoil / Strapless / Twin-Tip /

Interactive Tool

Session Planner 2026

Enter your weight, wind strength and level: our simulator will recommend the ideal kite size for your next session in Salento.

Kite size simulator

75 kg
18 knots

Recommended size

12m²

Ideal conditions for a freeride session.

Rent this gear

Weather

Understanding Salento Weather

Two main seasons, two riding atmospheres. Adapting your equipment and expectations is the key to a successful stay.

Summer Season

May — September

  • Dominant Maestrale (NW) — 15 to 25 knots
  • Regular thermal winds from 1pm
  • Warm waters 22-27°C — shorty or boardshorts
  • Long sessions until sunset

Winter Season

October — April

  • Powerful Sirocco (SE) and Tramontana (N)
  • Big waves on the Adriatic coast
  • 4/3mm wetsuit recommended (water 14-18°C)
  • Deserted spots — total freedom sessions
See Full Forecast

Agenda

Events 2026

The must-attend events of the kite season in Salento.

Competition Europe & World

2026 Season

GKA Kite World Tour

The pro world circuit: freestyle, strapless and Big Air. Several stages in Europe, all broadcast live on YouTube.

Big Air Le Barcarès, France

2026 Summer

Lord of Tram

The mythic GKA Big Air stage. The Tramontana propels riders to crazy heights. Free access on the beach.

Festival Cervia, Italy

April / May 2026

Artevento Cervia

The largest kite festival in Italy, a few hours from Salento. Demos, workshops and family atmosphere.

All Events

Beginners

Start Kitesurfing

Three steps to move from curiosity to your first tacks on the water.

01

Choose the Right School

Select an IKO or FIV certified center. Check the student/instructor ratio (max 4:1), gear and reviews. Consult our school guide.

02

Theory and Kite Handling

The first hours take place on land: wind window, safety, flying a trainer kite. It's the indispensable basis before touching the water.

03

Bodydrag and Waterstart

Towed swimming to master power, then the first waterstarts. Expect 9 to 12 hours of lessons to become autonomous. All details on our beginners page.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Salento Kiter

What is the best month to come kitesurfing in Salento?
May, June and September offer the best compromise: consistent wind (Maestrale 15-25 knots), pleasant temperatures (25-30°C) and accessible beaches. July-August remain windy but more crowded. Consult our weather page for detailed forecasts.
Do I need a car on site?
Yes, highly recommended. Spots are spread over 200 km of coast and public transport is limited. Car rental allows choosing the best spot each day based on the wind. Budget: about 25-40€/day in season.
Are there specific dangers in Salento?
Adriatic Coast: shallow rocks on some spots (Frassanito, Torre dell'Orso). Ionian Coast: currents near Cape Leuca. Always consult locals and respect marked zones. Our wind & tides page details the conditions of each spot.
Are the beaches too crowded in summer to ride?
In July and August, tourist beaches are indeed very busy. However, Kite Zones are marked and separated from swimming areas. Kite spots remain accessible even in high season, and early morning or late afternoon sessions offer the best conditions.
Can I foil in Salento?
Yes, foiling is developing rapidly in Salento. Porto Cesareo is the reference spot thanks to its flat waters and consistent wind. Several schools offer kitefoil lessons for intermediate and higher level riders. Foil gear rental is available in the main centers.

Ready to ride the Salento waves?

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