Vada / Tuscany / Italy

Situated on Italy's north western coast in the region of Tuscany lies the beach at Vada. It is a spot that is enjoyed by kitesurfers and windsurfers of all abilities. During the summer months of June, July and August the beach gets very crowded with tourists and so restrictions may be in place. Having said this the best time to surf is between May and September when the thermal winds kick in.

The beach is very long and sandy and hazard and obstacle free. As mentioned above, its gets very busy in the summer so it may be wise to check on restrictions before you set out. You can get here by heading towards Cecina on either the S1 along the coast or via the A12 . Before Cecina follow signs for Vada.

The main wind directions are north northwest and south southeast. Both directions work really well here. The water quality is clear and conditions are choppy with small waves. There is also a shallow access into the water. The water temperature remains somewhere between 10-26 degrees depending upon the time of year, During spring, summer and autumn you can get away with shorts or a shorty, but in the winter it is best to suit up.

There isn't all that much here at the beach apart from the odd beachside bar and kiosk. Vada isn't as popular as some of the other destinations in Tuscany but it has it's fair share of bars, restaurants, shops and hotels. There is limited nightlife here, much of which is hotel based. A trip into Cecina will find a larger choice of facilities and nightlife.

This is a very safe spot but be aware of swimmers in the water and tourists on the beach in the busier months.