Surfing in Greece

Greece is known for their steeped history and paradisiac islands but surfing is also starting to attract visitors to the country. With a vast number of islands and 16,400 km of shoreline there are lots of surf spots available to be explored. When you think about Greece most people picture an idyllic turquoise water with golden sand. Add to that the meltemi summer winds and you will have one the most beautiful and exotic surf spots in the world. Thanks to the low surfing population these waves are rarely registered when pumping making Greece one of the best kept surf secrets in Europe. Besides surfing the Greek Islands have many things going for them. History? sure. Culture and architecture? Definitely. Food? Right on. What makes Greece so unique is that you can visit the country to enjoy culture, history, scenic landscapes, architecture and also surf.

Climate in Greece

Greek climate is mostly Mediterranean, but each area of the country can have a distinctive micro-climate and weather forecast. That fact makes it hard to find the swells that can be going on in a spot and vanish overnight but also creates multiple opportunities for different kinds of swells. The winter (November to March) produces the biggest and best waves but also brings lots of stormy conditions. The water temperature can get down to 14°C (58°F) and strong winds can make temperatures feel colder. During summer the consistent meltemia winds that come from the southeast of Russia create ideal conditions especially on the Southeast islands of the country. Generally the summers along the coast are usually hot and winters are mild with enjoyable temperatures.

Best surf spots in Greece

Greece has a vast amount of islands offering innumerous perfect setups to surf. Here are the main surf spots in the country. Kolymbithres in Tinos, Keros in Limnos, Arkassa beach in Karpathos, Lagouvardos beach in Messinia, Agios Theologos beach in Kos and Messakti in Ikaria.

Budget Planning

Meal price range

Simple meals start at $10 USD. Mid-range meals start at $23 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $70-140 USD

Equipment rental

On certain islands you can find board rentals. Might be best to take your own gear.

Prepaid SIM cards

Vodafone is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from branded shops. Prepaid packages start at $20 USD.

Public transport

The most popular transportation to go from Athens to the Greek islands is by ferry. 

The intercity bus system in Greece is very efficient. Greek taxis are among the cheapest in the Mediterranean.

Car rentals start at $30 USD a day.

Gas prices  

$1.48 USD a liter                                                                    

Types of risks

Winter conditions. Short-lived swells

How to prepare

Visa

Citizens from 62 countries, including the US, and Australia, can enter Greece without a visa for up to 90 days.

Vaccines

Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella. 

Things to know

Language & Currency

Official language is Greek. But you will find many, especially in tourist destinations, that speak English.

Best time to go

SW winds produce the longer period swells in winter.

Checking Surf forecast 

Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.

Do I need pack a pharmacy kit

You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.

Travel/Surf Insurance

World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.

Emergency

Dial 112

Check surf pictures of Greece at #surfinggreece.