Spot Guide
Lefkada, Ionian Islands · Greece
- Sports
- Windsurfing, Kitesurfing, SUP
- Water
- Flat water, Small waves
- Level
- Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Advanced, Expert
- Wind directions
- N, W, WNW, NW, NNW
- Flat water: W, WNW, NW · typical 12.0–20.0 kn
- Small waves: N, NNW
Spot description
Agios Ioannis, also called Milos Beach, is an exposed beach on Lefkada's northwest coast. In summer the thermal sea breeze usually builds from midday and suits freeride, slalom and freestyle. In light wind the surface stays smooth; stronger thermal wind creates chop. The windsurfing launch at the southern end keeps clear of the northern end, which is more heavily used by kitesurfers.
More spot information
In summer the local thermal wind turns west around midday and strengthens in the afternoon. With a weak west forecast it can often build locally to around 12–20 kn. In low-pressure systems, northwest to north brings over 25 kn and swell; these exposed strong-wind conditions are considerably more demanding than the summer thermal breeze.
In a light breeze the water stays smooth to flat; around 20 kn, chop builds for jumping. Winter or off-season northwest to north conditions can produce 1–2 m swell. Sand, gravel and occasional rock slabs alternate on the beach.
Agios Ioannis is north of Lefkada town. For windsurfing, use the launch at the southern end of the long beach; windsurfers there are better separated from kitesurfers at the resort and northern end. Observe marked launch and swimming zones on site.
Windsurfing and kitesurfing schools, equipment rental, beach bars, tavernas and accommodation line the beach. The kitesurfing area is more heavily used at the northern end.
The exposed coast can build swell and heavy chop in strong northerly winds. There are rock slabs in places in the water; watch for current and swimming zones. Keep windsurfing and kitesurfing areas separate according to local markings.