Kitespot Los Lances North: What to Expect?
Located on the southern coast of Spain, kitespot Los Lances North is most popular for intermediate riders.
The spot is situated in the province of Cadiz, near the town of Tarifa, known as the kitesurfing capital of Europe. Los Lances North is the place you've probably seen pictures of with hundreds of kites in the air.
The ocean at Los Lances North provides the perfect conditions for kitesurfing, with a variety of water types, from flat to chop and small waves with Levante, and larger waves with Poniente. Tarifa is a charming and vibrant town with a great atmosphere, a perfect spot for kitesurfers with plenty of options for accommodation, restaurants, and nightlife.
Wind
Kitespot Los Lances North's best wind months are from March through October.
There are basically 2 kinds of wind. Levante (E) and Poniente (W). Levante is strong, blows from the land, a bit gusty, off-shore, and is boosted by the Venturi effect. Poniente is a lighter wind, blows from the sea and when sunny, boosted by a thermal effect.
The forecast does not show the real deal around summer. 8 knots Levante (E) on the forecast will be around 17 knots in real life, and 20 knots will be around 35 knots. Every few days Poniente (W) will be present and 8 knots on the forecast will be around 17 knots in real life. This is because the forecast doesn’t include the Venturi effect and thermal wind.
If you’re curious about the current action at the spot, check the Surf Center Tarifa webcam.
Thermal wind & Venturi effect
The Venturi effect is caused by the Levante wind from the eastern mediterranean. This wind is compressed between the Sierra Nevada and the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and results in a strong wind (20-50 knots).
The thermal wind is caused by the temperature difference on land and water. When heat, during the day increases, the thermal wind will do the same. It starts increasing at 11:00 until the afternoon and calms down in the evening. The thermal effect is most present with Poniente, which results in a wind from 15-25 knots.
Kitesizes
The kite sizes that work best at Los Lances North vary depending on the wind conditions and rider ability. It's best to check the forecast to pack your quiver, remember to add around 5-10 knots to the wind gusts to determine your quiver.
- Kitesizes with Levante: 4-12m (80kg)
- Kitesizes with Poniente: 7-14m (80kg)
Kiteseason
- Low season: Nov-Feb
- Mid season: March-May / Sept-Oct
- High season: June-August
Water conditions
The water at Los Lances North is suitable for all types of riders. It is mostly choppy with Levante, and can have small to medium waves with Poniente.
Launch Area
The launch area at the beach is quite large. With ample space to set up.
From June 15 to September 15, the spot is divided into zones for beginners with lessons and more independent kitesurfers. The lesson zone is located near Chiringuito Agua, next to Rio Jara river.
Please check the IKO rules to make sure everyone can have a good session at this kitespot.
Lessons & Gear
There are several schools in the area that offer lessons and rental gear.
Hazards
Riders should be aware of the hazards at kitespot Los Lances North. The beach can get crowded with kitesurfers, mainly in the summer. Additionally, off-shore winds and gusty wind with Levante can be hazardous for riders.
Considering the off-shore wind with Levante, it’s advised to get a rescue card at a nearby kiteshop. If you need a rescue and don’t have a card, the rescue fee can be up to €150.
Level of Riding
Los Lances North is most suitable for intermediate riders, this is mostly because of wind gusts wind Levante. If you’re under guidance of a kitesurf instructor you can also kitesurf when you’re a beginner.
If Levante is very strong it's advised to visit nearby kitespot Palmones.
How to Get There
Kitespot Los Lances North is located near the towns of Tarifa just above the Rio Jara river up to the “end of the beach” Camping Tarifa.
If you travel from Malaga airport, then it’s a 2 hour drive to the spot. There is also a bus service that runs between Malaga and Los Lances North. If you are driving, there is plenty of parking available near the spot.