Varkiza

Varkiza is a protected bay located on the Athenian coast south of Athens, Greece, facing northeast toward the Saronic Gulf. The spot is characterized by a wide sandy beach backed by extensive residential development and a major highway. The bay contains numerous moored boats indicating recreational and fishing activity. Water conditions are generally choppy with very small average wave heights (0.34m), making this primarily a wind-dependent spot rather than a wave-driven destination. The northeast-facing orientation and presence of moored vessels indicate sheltered conditions with limited fetch. Best conditions occur with northwesterly winds providing side-shore conditions. The low average wind speed (6.5 knots) and extremely low wind reliability (9.9%) suggest this spot is marginal for kitesurfing and highly weather-dependent. Varkiza suits beginners during rare strong wind events due to the shallow, protected waters and sandy bottom. However, kiters must carefully navigate around boat traffic and mooring lines. The spot's proximity to Athens provides accessibility but limits wind flow due to surrounding urban development. Conditions are typically light and unreliable for regular progression.