Located just off the Venezuelan coast Margarita has become renowned for outstanding windsurfing with its reliable wind from November to June. Ideal for groups of mixed abilities and those that just want to blast! Combine this with a Latin American ambience, tropical weather, a sandy beach and generally good value.
The island itself has a varied landscape; the 10 minute transfer from the airport is through the dry scrubland that surrounds El Yaque. In the centre, the mountains rise to 900 metres and are covered in tropical vegetation. Around the north are pretty little villages, cliffs and more dramatic scenery. Over in La Restinga, most of the area is national park with mangrove swamps and long beaches.
The main spot is in El Yaque, directly of the main beach in front of the hotels and restaurants. From 10 to 5 this is strictly a Windsurfers' zone (no kiters). There are a few alternative spots, the most popular being Coche, a small island about a 20 minute boat ride away.
El Yaque The windsurfing conditions are very straightforward. There is usually no shore break, the beach and underwater is sandy and it is shallow (chest deep) for about 300 metres from the beach, marked by a small platform. This first area is also very flat and therefore ideal for learning new manoeuvres, especially water starting and carve gybing. This is also helped by the fact that you will probably be using a small sail. In fact the locals here will often learn to water start at the same time as learning to up haul. There is a distinct line as the bottom shelves away and the water is a much deeper blue.
COCHE: From El Yaque beach you can see Coche Island in the distance. If you like blasting on really flat water, it is worth joining a day trip there. The wind blows across the salt flats and beach, giving perfect super flat water conditions, it is like sailing in silk. This is generally more popular with Kitesurfers than Windsurfers.
LOS ROQUES: The archipelago of Los Roques has to be seen to be believed, it is stunning !! It is also a very romantic place, so if you were travelling with a partner we would highly recommend a few days visit. There is a windsurf centre there although the wind tends to be quite light. You will need to take a 90 minute flight to get there and then there is a selection of small but very charismatic accommodation to choose from. We recommend pre-booking as this is very popular, especially in high season, and there are limited rooms .
There are two things that stand out about Margarita; consistent side shore winds from left and shallow water. The wind season is from November to May with the strongest winds (bft 6-8) from January to March. Even in the least windy times, you would expect planing conditions for almost half of your holiday.
The wind usually builds up during the day, peaking in mid afternoon. Beginner lessons are therefore carried out during the mornings with the more advanced instruction available during the high wind part of the day.
In peak season it can be very busy. There are at least 7 places to hire equipment of varying standards; Planet's preferred partners are Club Mistral and Fun System. This can mean a lot of people on the water, especially in the shallow area. Sail 100 metres out and you will always have plenty of space.
The sea and air are warm in Margarita all year round. You can sail in shorts and bare feet. It is advisable to wear a rash vest and gloves, especially to start with. The warm water makes even tough hands blister. Some windsurfers have been know to finish their holiday using toilet paper wrapped round their hands with duct tape or use superglue!
The conditions in Margarita make it suitable for all abilities, from beginner to expert. It is ideal for slalom blasting, chop hopping, learning and improving gybing, some of the world top freestlye sailors come here to train in the winter, and it was home to world champion Ricardo Campello.
There are a hand full of beach bars in El Yaque and it is a very pleasant spot just to hang out although please be aware, apart from the locals that descend in their hundreds over the local holidays, this resort is set up just for the sport. Margarita is a good-sized island though and if you venture out of EL Yaque (rent a motorbike or take a taxi) you will find a busy local town with modern shopping malls and some good restaurants. Most centres also offer other activities such as surfing, horse riding and mountain biking .
For the more adventurous a trip to the main land of Venezuela can make for a memorable experience; there is so much to see but with limited time we would suggest either a trip to Angel Falls (can be done in a day) or the Andes....wow !
Kitesurfing is also very popular in Margarita although the spots are separated from the windsurf zone. There are many centres offering courses and rental; Planet partner with Sky Riders, they are simply the best and safest operation there.
Margarita follows the Latin American beat of merengue, salsa and reggae. Porlamar (20-30 min taxi) is a sophisticated international city with some bars restaurants and nightclubs to match, all at very good value. El Yaque has its share, with the emphasis more on a laid back windsurfing atmosphere with everyone nursing their blistered hands. During the week different hotels and restaurants run speciality nights. The late night action tends to revolve around Los Piratos. In addition most centres arrange several evenings out each week.
UK / EU passport holders: A full 10 year passport valid until at least 6 months after date of return. No visa required.
Other passport holders: Please check with Venezuelan Embassy (020) 7387 6727
There are no compulsory inoculations if travelling from the UK but we recommend to check with your GP for the latest advice. |
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