Lefkada – Vassiliki
Greece · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil · SUP
- Best winds SE (Eric, thermal)
- Level Beginner · Intermediate
- Water Chop
- Best months Jun–Sep
About this spot
Vassiliki sits in a horseshoe-shaped bay in the south of the Ionian island of Lefkada and has been a classic of the European windsurf scene since the 1980s. The geography means it almost always has more wind than anywhere else on the island.
The star is the thermal afternoon wind "Eric". From morning to midday a light onshore breeze blows over flat water – ideal for beginners, kids and light-wind freestyle, helped by a shallow sandbar off the beach. Around 1 pm "Eric" shifts and builds, usually to 4–6 Beaufort, on strong days 7–8. On the water it stays flat to light chop. When does the wind arrive in Vassiliki? Reliably in the early afternoon, as clouds push over the mountains to the west.
This mix makes the bay a rare spot that serves beginners in the morning and ambitious advanced sailors in the afternoon. Season runs April to early October, strongest in July and August.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, February is the windiest month: on 26 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the south-east. The least wind is in August (2 %). The water ranges from about 17 to 27 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
18 %
| 10 kn | E | 13 °C | 17 °C |
| February |
26 %
| 10 kn | SE | 13 °C | 17 °C |
| March |
19 %
| 10 kn | E | 14 °C | 17 °C |
| April |
13 %
| 9 kn | E | 16 °C | 18 °C |
| May |
15 %
| 9 kn | SE | 19 °C | 20 °C |
| June |
5 %
| 8 kn | SE | 24 °C | 24 °C |
| July |
4 %
| 9 kn | SE | 27 °C | 27 °C |
| August |
2 %
| 8 kn | SE | 27 °C | 27 °C |
| September |
8 %
| 8 kn | SE | 24 °C | 27 °C |
| October |
23 %
| 9 kn | SE | 21 °C | 23 °C |
| November |
25 %
| 11 kn | SE | 18 °C | 21 °C |
| December |
19 %
| 9 kn | SE | 15 °C | 19 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from SE (usable according to the spot info) are counted. Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
Mornings are flat and onshore – perfect for beginners, kids and SUP; wind typically arrives from midday. Watch for clouds over the western mountains as the cue for "Eric" and rig down in good time.
⚠︎ Hazards
In the afternoon "Eric" comes up quickly and strong – choose sail size with foresight. Its cross-shore character carries you out of the bay, so judge your range realistically.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lefkada – Vassiliki suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Lefkada – Vassiliki suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate (water: Chop).
Which wind works at Lefkada – Vassiliki?
Best with wind from SE (Eric, thermal). In the windiest month (February), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the south-east.
When is the best time for Lefkada – Vassiliki?
The best months are considered to be Jun–Sep. According to the wind statistics, February has the most wind days (26 % of days).
How warm is the water at Lefkada – Vassiliki?
Over the year about 17 °C in February to 27 °C in August (model data).
Something missing or wrong? Suggest a change
Your note goes to the editors and is not shown publicly. We only need an email address if we have questions.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first.