Spiaggia Lunga / Puglia / Italy

The Spiaggia Lunga beach lies just outside of the City of Vieste going towards Molinella, north of Lido di Portonuovo in eastern Italy's puglia region. It is popular with kitesurfers, surfers and windsurfers of all levels and abilities with a season from April to November, although off season is possible.

There is a very long sandy beach which is contained within a bay and it is hazard and obstacle free. It can get very busy with tourists during the summer months and time restrictions may well be imposed. The best time to surf here is from September through to April because of this. You can get here by driving north of Vieste towards Molinella where you will see the beach signposted.

The winds are predominantly from the south east or north west and both of these directions work well as this spot. The bay curves and to the north, north and south winds are sideshore. The water is crystal clear and tide independent. It tends to be choppy with small waves for much of the time. The summers are warm here, as is the water, and you can get by with just a pair of shorts or a shorty. Come the winter months and you will need to suit up accordingly.

This spot is really gearing up for surfing enthusiasts and there is a surf shop selling all sorts of gear, a repair and rental shop as well as a surf school. In addition you can rent rooms here and there is plenty of parking. Vieste has a good selection of shops, restaurants and bars and the nightlife is not bad either.

This is a pretty safe spot but watch out for crowds on the beach in the summer months and swimmers in the water.