Beginner Windsurfing Holiday Margarita

Located just off the Venezuelan coast Margarita has become renowned for outstanding windsurfing with its reliable wind from November to June. Ideal for groups of mixed abilities and those that just want to blast! Combine this with a Latin American ambience, tropical weather, a sandy beach and generally good value.

The island itself has a varied landscape; the 10 minute transfer from the airport is through the dry scrubland that surrounds El Yaque. In the centre, the mountains rise to 900 metres and are covered in tropical vegetation. Around the north are pretty little villages, cliffs and more dramatic scenery. Over in La Restinga, most of the area is national park with mangrove swamps and long beaches.

+ 44 (0) 870 749 1959

Itinerary / Highlights

THE WINDSURFING
The conditions in Margarita make it suitable for all abilities, from beginner to expert. It is ideal for slalom blasting, chop hopping, learning and improving gybing, some of the world top freestlye sailors come here to train in the winter, and it was home to world champion Ricardo Campello.
In peak season it can be very busy. There are at least 7 places to hire equipment of varying standards; Planet's preferred partners are Club Mistral and Fun System. This can mean a lot of people on the water, especially in the shallow area. Sail 100 metres out and you will always have plenty of space.
The sea and air are warm in Margarita all year round. You can sail in shorts and bare feet. It is advisable to wear a rash vest and gloves, especially to start with. The warm water makes even tough hands blister. Some windsurfers have been known to finish their holiday using toilet paper wrapped round their hands with duct tape or use superglue!

THE WIND
There are two things that stand out about Margarita; consistent side shore winds from left and shallow water. The wind season is from November to May with the strongest winds (bft 6-8) from January to March. Even in the least windy times, you would expect planing conditions for almost half of your holiday.
The wind usually builds up during the day, peaking in mid afternoon. Beginner lessons are therefore carried out during the mornings with the more advanced instruction available during the high wind part of the day.

Other Details

Accommodation Details

CASA RITA
Casa Rita is a charming hotel; our firm favourite in El Yaque because of the quiet location, beautiful lush gardens, large rooms and first class service. It is not beachfront but in our experience the rewards of being set apart is a more tranquil and relaxing accommodation.
The breakfast terrace (and some rooms) have spectacular views of the ocean and Isla de Coche. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the 20 rooms are spread over two floors around a quiet internal courtyard. We love Casa Rita!! All rooms are air conditioned.

EL YAQUE BEACH HOTEL
Situated in a perfect position above the Vela centre, El Yaque Beach Hotel has a range of accommodation from standard and deluxe rooms to one and two bedroom apartments. The breakfast courtyard actually looks right out over the spot – perfect!
You have the choice between Standard and Deluxe Rooms and 1- and 2- Bedroom apartments. All are with air-conditioning, private bathroom with hot and cold water, safe, telephone, TV and refrigerator. The apartments include a fully equipped kitchenette.

WINDSURFERS OASIS
The Windsurf Oasis is unique in El Yaque as it is the only beach front hotel with a pool. The rooms however are a little small. The hotel has a lovely quiet garden area around the swimming pool, a whirlpool and sunbeds on the beach.
The Oasis Hotel has 22 rooms, all with air conditioning, fridge, safe and TV. Rooms are also available with a very small balcony at a supplement. Other facilities include a small pool, private sunbathing area and on-site beach bar.

COCHE PARADISE
The Coche Paradise is based on Coche Island, a 25 minute ferry ride from El Yaque on Margarita Island - be prepared to get a bit wet on the crossing ! This resort is set on the most beautiful beach in the area, away from all the crowds on the mainland.
All rooms have: air conditioner, security safe box, colour T.V. with remote control, telephone, private terrace, mini fridge, hot and cold water, and room cleaning every day. Hotel facilities include tennis court, pool for adults and children, kids' area.

WINDSURF PARADISE
Located within a few metres of the beach the Windsurf Paradise Hotel was built by windsurfers for windsurfers. This Hotel is surrounded by beautiful gardens and it has a beautiful tropical terrace with an incredible view of the sea and a pretty pool.
Our Hotel consists of 64 rooms of which 53 are standard and 11 are Superiors with capacity for 4 and 5 adults. The superior rooms are big and more comfortable than the standard ones.

CASA VIVA
Ideally situated right on the beach in El Yaque Casa Viva is a small block of 9 rooms and 2 apartments with 30 sq m terrace, relaxing sofas and hammocks overlooking the main beach….perfect ! All rooms have air-conditioning, fridge, direct TV.
Casa Viva has the Fun System windsurf centre based on site as well as a very friendly and sociable beach bar. Planet have had excellent feedback regarding the friendly and professional service here !

EL YAQUE LUXURY APARTMENTS
This new hotel is the first luxury accommodation available in El Yaque just a stroll over to the beach where the windsurf and kitesurf centres are based.
The one and two bedroom suites have a fully equipped kitchen, living area and bedroom/s, two full baths, washer/dryer, air-conditioning & huge balconies. Guest have free access to 100's of dvd's and commercial center in the lobby.

CASA VIENTO
A newly refurbished accommodation a very short walk to the beach in the heart of El Yaque. These reasonably spacious apartments make for a great value base from which to windsurf and kitesurf in Margarita. They are quite basic but well managed and clean.

Departure Dates, Options & Prices

COURSES AND INSTRUCTION
6 / 10 HOUR STARTER COURSE INCLUDING EQUIPMENT £130 / £160
6 HOURS INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED INSTRUCTION EXCLUDING EQUIPMENT £119
5 / 10 DAYS UNLIMITED PREMIUM £225 / £375

RENTAL (MISTRAL/NORTH SAILS)
1 WEEK £180
2 WEEKS £300

+ 44 (0) 870 749 1959