Why go to the Caribbean for white sand and crystal clear waters when it’s right here in Europe? Not only is the Mediterranean home to some of the most beautiful places on the planet, it’s only a few hours flight from the UK. Plus, you can expect reliable winds, world-class facilities and ease of travel within the EU (for now, at least).

Here’s a closer look at some of the Med’s best windsurfing destinations.

Cyprus

Cyprus’ main windsurfing spot is Pissouri, a traditional Cypriot village where you’ll find a lively town square and friendly atmosphere. With strong winds and some protected waters it’s good for beginners. However, advanced windsurfers will really love the choppier, full force winds that create great jumping conditions.

France

The Mediterranean island of Corsica is stunningly beautiful but the south of the island is also home to reliable winds and windsurfing beaches.

Greece

Crete, Kos and Rhodes are the two main windsurfing islands in Greece. Marmari and Psalidi in Kos both offer a good range of accommodation and facilities, with plenty to do for non-windsurfers too. So they’re excellent for family breaks with a spot of windsurfing on the side. Kremasti and Prasonisi in Rhodes offer long sandy beaches and cross shore winds.

Italy

Sardinia is one of the Mediterranean’s best-kept windsurfing secrets. Check out Porto Pollo if you’re looking for a quiet beach with excellent sailing conditions.

Portugal

The Algarve, as well as being a tourist hotspot and resort capital, is also a stunning nature reserve and world-class windsurfing destination. Base yourself in Lagos, a charming and lively fishing village, and check out the lagoons and reliable winds of Portugal’s south coast. It might be more Atlantic than pure Med but it’s close enough to count.

Spain

Most of Spain’s windsurfing destinations are located in the Canary Islands, found in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of the African continent. But the mainland is still home to one of the best. One of the windiest places on the continent, Tarifa is found on a small peninsula on Spain’s southern coast. In peak season, it can get really busy but with winds blowing for most of the year, you can visit off peak to enjoy superb conditions.

Turkey

Jutting out in the Aegean Sea, Alacati is Turkey’s main windsurfing hotspot. Flat turquoise waters and incessant winds keep this holiday resort among the favourite Med windsurf destinations. And, when it’s not blowing (really not that often), you can visit some of the region’s most historic sites at Troy, Ephesus and Assos.

For the most part in the Med, conditions are best in the summer months between June and late August. This is also peak season so some resorts can get busy but there’s usually plenty of room to go around. And with most places at three or fewer hours’ flight time, access to this corner of southern Europe is superb.