Italy
San Giovanni beach in Alghero, located on the north-west coast of Sardinia, is a coastal spot favored by kitesurfers in the region. It is a place that benefits from regular wind conditions and an authentic local atmosphere, away from the summer tourist hustle.
The spot offers easy access to the sea with a sandy beach allowing for a hassle-free launch. It is a destination suitable for both riders seeking calm sessions and those looking to progress in a less crowded environment than the major tourist spots in Sardinia.
Les données de vent affichées ici proviennent d’ERA5 (via Open-Meteo) sur 4 ans, retraitées pour refléter des conditions réalistes.
👉 Le vent moyen a été calibré pour éviter la sous-estimation habituelle des modèles.
👉 Les rafales ont été corrigées par un ratio médian afin d’éviter des valeurs extrêmes irréalistes.
👉 Chaque jour est résumé par le vent médian (P50) observé pendant les heures utiles (8h–20h), puis classé dans des plages de vent.
👉 Le mode pondéré mélange vent moyen et rafales pour refléter au mieux le vent ressenti.
chopchopSan Giovanni benefits from a regular and consistent wind regime throughout the year. The dominant wind comes from the north-west (Mistral) and north-east (Grecale), creating generally side-shore to side-on conditions depending on the exact configuration of the spot. The wind typically blows between 10 and 25 knots, with the best sessions occurring between 15 and 20 knots.
The water surface is characterized by flat to slightly choppy water near the shore, with a sandy bottom allowing for a gradual and safe entry. The launch area is directly from the sandy beach. Conditions remain relatively stable throughout the day, with wind blowing regularly, particularly in the early afternoon. The influence of tides is limited, ensuring consistent navigation areas regardless of tide times.
Ideal kitesurfing conditions at San Giovanni are between 15 and 20 knots, with wind coming from the north-west (Mistral) or north-east (Grecale). At these speeds, the water surface offers a perfect balance between control and feel, with flat to slightly choppy water suitable for all riding styles. The constant and steady wind at the spot allows for extended sessions without major variations, making it an ideal environment to progress or simply enjoy a good session.
The water surface at San Giovanni is characterized by flat to slightly choppy conditions depending on the areas and wind conditions. Near the shore and the launch area, the water is generally flat and progressive, ideal for learning and progression. Further out, one may encounter a slight chop, particularly during sessions with stronger winds. Waves remain moderate, except during exceptional weather conditions. The sandy bottom offers excellent visibility and increased safety for all levels of riders.
The influence of tides and currents at San Giovanni is relatively limited. The water level remains fairly constant throughout the day, meaning that navigation areas and riding conditions remain consistent regardless of tide times. It is still recommended to consult local tide tables for precise planning, but the spot does not present particular challenges related to currents or tidal variations.
For San Giovanni, the recommended kite sizes depend on the day's wind conditions. With wind between 10 and 15 knots, a kite of 14 to 17 m² is appropriate. For optimal conditions between 15 and 20 knots, a kite of 12 to 14 m² offers excellent control and good feel. During windier sessions, between 20 and 25 knots, a kite of 9 to 12 m² is preferable. It is advisable to have at least two kites to cover the full range of conditions encountered at the spot.
The wind regime at San Giovanni is dominated by the Mistral, a north-west wind that blows with regularity and consistency. The Grecale, a north-east wind, complements this regime and also offers excellent conditions. These two winds create a predictable and reliable kitesurfing environment throughout the year. Wind strength typically varies between 10 and 25 knots, with optimal conditions around 15 to 20 knots. The wind blows consistently, particularly in the early afternoon, making it a reliable spot for planning sessions.
Alghero enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The summer months, from June to September, offer temperatures between 25 and 30°C, while spring and autumn provide slightly cooler but equally pleasant conditions. Winter remains mild, allowing kitesurfing all year round. General weather conditions are stable during the kitesurfing season, although it is always recommended to check forecasts before a session.
The depth at San Giovanni is progressive with a sandy bottom, making it a very accessible spot. One can stand easily from the beach over a significant distance, allowing for a gradual and safe entry into the water. The sandy bottom offers excellent visibility and eliminates risks related to rocks or underwater obstacles. The depth increases gradually, which is particularly suitable for beginners and progressing riders.
The water temperature in Alghero varies with the seasons. In summer, from June to September, the water reaches 22 to 25°C, allowing for riding in shorts or a light wetsuit. In spring and autumn, temperatures are around 18 to 22°C, requiring a short wetsuit. In winter, from December to February, the water cools to 13 to 16°C, making a full or semi-full wetsuit necessary for comfort. Despite these variations, the spot remains rideable all year round thanks to the mild Mediterranean climate.
