Kitesurfing in Turkey – as featured in Kiteworld Travel Guide

February 25th, 2011    /    One Comment magazine

THE LURE

Constant winds hitting 60 square kilometres at shallow, flat water lagoons with over 15 spots all within a 25 minute drive set against a spectacular mountain backdrop are what you can look forward to in Didim. No matter what the direction, you can always find epic flat water.

THE SET-UP

Situated between Alacati and Gokova, Didim benefits from both daily thermals and the stronger Meltemi wind. ‘Mad Dog’ (Basaran) beach is the main teaching area. An outer sand bar, shallow water and no chop make it a perfect spot for some heavy amounts of progression. Head out beyond the sand bar and you’ll reach slightly deeper water and small bits of chop more suited to big lofty jumps as it’s more forgiving on bad landings. This is the start of a mindblowing series of lagoons dotted over a 60 square kilometre section of coast, including Flamingo lagoon (for obvious wildlife reasons), Muddy lagoon and Secret lagoon. This area works on all wind directions, though can be gusty on due south and easterly winds.

It you follow the coast back to Akbuk Bay there are several beaches and bays that work well, are almost always onshore, but more suited to intermediate riders. Look hard enough and you may find ‘Almost Secret lagoon’, which works best on westerlies. Akbuk bay itself has several spots and the whole bay opens up to work on westerlies with beautiful flat water behind ‘Spoon Island’. On a north wind the harbour itselt becomes a massive flat water playground. The best launch spot is off the end at the harbour, so short lines are best. Akbuk Bay is for experienced riders only. Be cautious of power lines at the water’s edge and of swimmers in June, July and August, however, the 5 namerous floating pontoons make for some great grinding sessions. As yet, there are no crowds at any spots in Didim, so learners can focus 100% on what they’re there to do.

WIND WATER AND WEATHER

This area of Turkey is famous for its Meltemi winds. The main season runs April – September when northerlies prevail. Averaging 15-22 knot wind speeds makes it ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike, building at 10am (so you get a lie in) and dying off just before sunset, giving you time to pack up with a relaxing beer and wonder at the amazing sunsets, unless it’s a Meltemi wind, which can blow for up to a week!
October — March gets more sporadic southwesterly winds which tend to nuke, so bring your six metre around that time. Air temps average 20°C / 68°F; water April October: 22°C / 72°F. April — September it’s boardies and bikinis all the way. December —January you’ll need a shorty or full summer suit. No warm clothing needed May — August. A hoody will be handy out of that time.

GET AROUND

Unless you are on a five day course with Radical Kitesurf you will need your own transport as most of the best spots are remote and with limited facilities, so don’t forget the BBQ, drinking water and the cooler for that well-deserved after session beer. As well as car hire, motorbike rental is also an option.

FOOD AND DRINK

There’s plenty of things to do here for all, whether you just want to chill on the beach or hang out in the numerous restaurant and bars. There are Turkish markets nearly every day in the surrounding towns with everything from lash fresh fruit and veg to ‘genuine copy’ designer labels, but don’t forget to barter tor a better price.
Party animals head to Altinkum where there are numerous dance clubs, bars and restaurants. Take your own designated driver or be prepared for a high cab fare home though — 5OTL/£21/€25/$33).

NO WIND

Home to some of the ancient wonders of the world, expect to be amazed by Apollo’s Temple and Miletos which are right by some of the kiting locations and Ephesus which in 90 minutes away. Visit the ancient cities or take daily boat trips around the numerous bays and islands. The Didim water park is the biggest in Turkey. If you want to keep it radical then hit the sky dive centre 90 minutes away.

AIRPORT

Bodrum (BJV) is 40-60 minute transfer / lzmir (ADB) is two hours away.