Cabanas Island / Algarve / Portugal

Cabanas Island lays offshore from Cabanas De Tavira in Portugal's Algarve region and is actually part of the Rio Formosa National Park. The spot is popular with kitesurfers of all abilities who manage to ride here all year around, although officially the seasoon is from March to September.

There is a very large sandy beach with plenty of room for everyone apart from in the summer months of June, July and August when it can get very crowded. Time restrictions may well apply so it is best to check before you set out.

The winds are pretty constant at this spot particularly from March to October when there is a south west wind which has a speed of between 12-16 knots. The rest of the year the wind switches to east or south east at a speed of beween 10-14 knots, although this is not as constant as the south west wind. The water quality is clean and tends to be flat to choppy especially on the land side. This side is also quite shallow which makes it perfect for beginners. The ocean side does not attract that many waves, and it tends to be quite choppy. Summers are warm and only a pair of shorts is needed. Come the winter months and you need a full wetsuit.

There is plenty of parking and accommodation to be had here. There are also several small bars at which to grab a bite to eat. Cabanas de Tavira has some very good fish restaurants.

There are no real safety issues here but watch out for any shipping traffic and respect other surfers.