Review by Mathias
As an experienced kitesurfer, I’m always on the lookout for spots that offer an adrenaline rush, powerful waves, and challenging conditions. Chia, located on Sardinia’s southern coast, is one of those places that I highly recommend—but only for the right riders. If you’re an advanced wave rider looking for strong winds and well-formed swells, Chia can be an epic spot.
However, if you’re a beginner or someone looking for easy conditions, Chia is NOT the right place to learn. Trust me, I’ve seen riders struggle here, and if you’re just starting, there’s a much better alternative: Punta Trettu—Sardinia’s best flat-water kitesurfing spot.
Chia: A Stunning Location with a Tough Learning Curve
What Makes Chia a Great Spot for Experienced Riders?
Chia is undeniably beautiful, with its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rolling sand dunes. It’s an iconic Sardinian location, but for kitesurfers, it’s not just about the scenery—it’s about the waves.
The best time to ride here is from October to May, when strong off-season winds generate powerful swells. Unlike the gentle thermal winds you find at beginner-friendly spots, Chia’s wind conditions demand precision, skill, and confidence.
Best Winds for Kitesurfing in Chia
- Grecale (NE Wind) – The most consistent wind, producing side-onshore waves that are perfect for riding.
- Levante (E Wind) – One of my favorites; brings in smooth but powerful wave sets.
- Scirocco (SE Wind) – Warmer wind that can create excellent swell and long, rideable waves.
- Ponente (W Wind) – Can build huge waves, but it’s mostly offshore, so you’ll need boat support.
When these winds are at their peak, Chia transforms into one of Sardinia’s best wave-riding spots. It’s not a place for freestyle tricks or easy cruising—it’s all about wave kitesurfing and high-energy riding.
Why Chia is NOT a Beginner Spot
While Chia is a dream location for experienced kitesurfers, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who isn’t comfortable with big waves and strong winds.
Key Challenges for Beginners in Chia
❌ Deep water & strong currents – No standing zones, so if you fall, you’re in deep water.
❌ Powerful, shifting winds – Sudden gusts make kite control difficult for new riders.
❌ Waves make learning harder – If you’re just starting, the constant movement of the water makes balance and board starts incredibly difficult.
❌ No kite schools available – There are no beginner-friendly schools in Chia.
During summer (June–September), kitesurfing is not even allowed from the beach, due to crowded shorelines full of swimmers and sunbathers.
If you’re thinking of learning kitesurfing in Sardinia, don’t waste your time struggling in Chia—head to Punta Trettu instead!
Punta Trettu: The Perfect Alternative for Learning Kitesurfing
If you’re a beginner (or even an intermediate rider looking for easy conditions), there’s no better place in Sardinia than Punta Trettu.
Why? Because Punta Trettu offers:
✔ Flat, shallow water – No waves, no deep water, just perfect conditions to learn safely.
✔ Reliable wind all year – Works with Mistral (NW), Scirocco (SE), and Levante (E).
✔ Dedicated kite schools – Unlike Chia, Punta Trettu has top-rated kite schools for all levels.
✔ No beach crowds – This is a kitesurfing-only spot, so there’s no interference from swimmers.
If you want to progress quickly and learn with confidence, Punta Trettu is where you need to be. Check out the best kite schools here:
👉 Punta Trettu Kite Beach
Final Verdict: Is Chia Worth Visiting for Kitesurfing?
YES – If You Are an Experienced Rider
💨 Chia is an awesome wave-riding spot during the off-season (October–May). If you have the skills to handle strong winds and challenging wave conditions, it’s worth visiting.
NO – If You Are a Beginner
❌ If you’re just starting out, Chia is too difficult, too dangerous, and has no schools. Go to Punta Trettu instead!
My advice? If you’re serious about kitesurfing in Sardinia, Chia is a fantastic challenge—but Punta Trettu is the best place to learn, progress, and enjoy hassle-free riding.
Ready to start your kitesurfing adventure? Check out the best schools at Punta Trettu here:
👉 Learn Kitesurfing in Punta Trettu
See you on the water!