Torre San Giovanni

Torre San Giovanni (Ugento) is a sand-bottom, shallow-water kitesurfing destination built around a wide beach and generally forgiving inshore conditions. Riders benefit from flat water for freeride and freestyle, with space to set up on the sandy launch area. Water clarity is described as very good/clear, and the bottom is primarily sand. Wind is dominated by thermal/gradient patterns. In the summer, afternoon thermal reinforcement supports reliable sessions, with a stated NW Maestrale pattern that often builds later in the day; spring/autumn can also bring stronger southerly/Scirocco disturbances. Typical kite wind ranges are reported across roughly 10–25 knots, and winter conditions can be especially consistent (with some sources also noting higher gustiness than purely steady winds). For safety, the summer rules are critical: in peak season (June–September), kitesurfing is restricted to designated launch channels/lanes, and outside those lanes launch/landing is forbidden due to bathing-area rules and heavy beach use. Expect additional summer crowding and the presence of swimmers outside sport zones. Sharp rocks toward the southern end of the bay (and occasional patches further out) also require careful navigation. The spot is widely recognized for beginner suitability (while still allowing progression, including Big Air and foiling). Gear guidance commonly includes a leash and an impact-vest, and riders should consider wetsuit thickness based on month: colder winter water and air can require thicker wetsuits, while warmer months may only need a very thin layer or rash guard.