Puzziteddu / Sicily / Italy

Puzziteddu is located on the south west coast of Sicily and is only a 45 minute drive from Palermo airport which makes it popular with surf enthusiasts. It is a suitable spot for all types of surfers of all abilities and has a season from April to October although the best time for wind and waves is Fall, winter and spring.

The beach is of a good size with lovely soft golden sand. There are no obstacles or hazards here. It can get very busy with holidaymakers and tourists here during the months of June, July and August and is probably best avoided at this time. To get here from Palermo take the A29 for Mazara del Vallo. Exit at Campobello di Mazara, approx 100 km, go through town following the signs for “Torretta-Granitola” and then for “Kartibubbo Village”.

This spot works best with west and north west winds and the latter offers some great conditions for windsurfing. The south west winds come side on and bring some massive waves. With east and south east winds it is possible to sail downwind 300 m in the Gulf of Kartibubbo where the wind, side off, makes the waves longer and smoother. The water is crystal clear and flat to choppy in the summer with thermal winds although there are waves when the summer storms roll in. The winter waves can be up to 4 meters in height. The summers are warm so you can get by with just a pair of shorts or a shorty, although you will need to suit up in the winter months.

There is a windsurf center which is open all year round that has a bar, showers, equipment storage and rentals. The wind and kitesurf school is open from April to October. There is ample parking here and toilet and shower facilities on the beach. There are also plenty of places where you can buy food and drink and camping nearby. Should you get into difficulties there is also a rescue boat on hand. If you're after some nightlife, then head into Marzara del Vallo.

This is a pretty safe spot but take extra care when the wind is really strong and watch out for crowds, especially at weekends.