Smile Beach / Djerba / Tunisia

Smile Beach is a lagoon spot located just outside the capital, Houmt Souk on the lovely island of Djerba which lies just off the coast of Tunisia. It offers really great conditions for beginners since it is shallow with no currents, and also for advanced kiters who can practice new stunts here. The season is all round although the best months are January to April and November and December.

The beach is 300 meters long with fine sand and 10-50 meters wide, depending on the tide and wind direction. It is cleaned up daily by the center crew and there is also a large hut located at the waters edge, for storing equipment and getting changed in. You can get here easily by taxi, which will carry up to 4 people with kite gear. They are quite cheap. Smile Beach is located right at the beginning of the “Zone Touristique” just outside of Houmt Souk.

The winds are fairly constant and medium to strong 10-20 knots, averaging 14 knots. The summer months of July to September have the lightest winds with north and north east winds which are sideonshore and average 10-15 knots. Winter brings stronger winds and a decent swell. The winds average around 25-30 knots November to April and sometimes are this strong in the summer when the thermals kick in. The lagoon is roughly 32 sq km. It is great for beginners with its soft sandy bottom, shallow water and no current. Advanced surfers will find it easy to train here and practice new stunts and you can walk across the entire lagoon which is only waist deep. The water is very flat when the wind is under 15 knots and stronger and it becomes a little choppy. There are no obstacles here apart from the odd wooden fishing boat here and there. There is a wave spot ahead of the lagoon with a small strip of sand dividing the lagoon from the ocean.

There are plenty of facilities in place here including a suf school, a shop, plus a rental and repair shop. There are toilet and shower facilities on the beach and a few places where you can get a drink or a bite to eat. Should you get into difficulties there is a rescue boat on hand. For accommodation or to stock up on provisions, head into Houmt Souk where you will easily find all that you need. Nightlife is very limited here on Djerba.

There are no rules or restrictions here. Just introduce yourself to the center and keep clear of the training zone which is clearly marked. Beginners have priority. There is no charge here for beach access.