Three water sports for enjoying Spain’s coasts after the summer

1 The waves of Zarautz, perfect for surfing

In 1991, Spain’s first surfing school opened in Zarautz, just 25 minutes from San Sebastián. Though it no longer exists, new clubs have been opening in the area ever since. The 2.5-kilometre beach is perfect for both experts and beginners, thanks to the different kinds of swells that characterise it. Some of the schools, such as Essus, even have courses for families who would like to try surfing with their children and get them started in the sport.

The best months for surfing at the beach in Zarautz are from October to March, although you need to be careful, as the waves can frequently be big.

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2 Kitesurfing spots in Fuerteventura

The Windsurf and Kiteboard World Cup has been held on the beaches of Sotavento since 1985, which has popularised this sport on the island. What’s more, the weather and wind conditions so characteristic of this Canary Island – the closest to Africa – make it an ideal spot for lovers of this sport.

The best places for kitesurfing on Fuerteventura are:

• Sotavento: where the world cup is held and the area with the most wind – an offshore wind – on the island.
• Flagbeach: in Corralejo, in the north, is where this sport is most popular and is perfect for all levels and ages.

In addition, the Festival Mundial de Cometas kite festival is held here every November. Don’t miss it this year, from 7 to 10 November, flying to Fuerteventura from 7,500 Avios each way.

3 Sailing the Mallorcan coast

The Balearic Islands have an impressive list of Olympic champions in different sailing styles, and is Spain’s most successful discipline.
Mallorca is an ideal destination for getting started in sailing. The mild temperatures and stable winds favour this sport, which has brought well-known professional competitions such as the recent Copy del Rey king’s cup race to these waters.

There is a wide variety of sailing schools on Mallorca that offer classes designed for the least experienced to those wanting professional qualifications. Most – such as the Puerto Portals sailing school – offer classes all year long.

After a full day of sailing, you can also plan a rural getaway on the island.