Isola dei Gabbiani: Kite & Windsurf Paradise Near Palau
Near Porto Pollo, close to Palau in the northeast, lies a narrow peninsula that ranks among Europe's best kite- and windsurfing spots – with two completely different bays packed into a tiny space.
One spit of land, two bays
Officially called L'Isuledda, but known mainly as "Isola dei Gabbiani" (Seagull Island). A narrow sand isthmus connects the small peninsula to the mainland, splitting two bays with opposite characters: Baia di Ponente sits exposed to the wind, with corresponding waves and chop, while Baia di Levante near Porto Pollo lies in the wind shadow and offers almost mirror-flat water. Beginners and freestylers stay on one side, wave riders simply switch to the other – one reason the spot is so highly regarded internationally.
Why there's so much wind here specifically
The location right on the Strait of Bonifacio brings reliable thermal winds and Mistral, sweeping unobstructed across the bay. The best months for a kite- or windsurf holiday are May, June, September, and October – wind is steady then and the beaches are noticeably emptier than in peak summer.
Camping right at the spot
If you don't want to drive in every day, the best option is to camp on-site: the "Isola dei Gabbiani" campsite and village sits right on the spit, with around 140 pitches, power hookups, and Wi-Fi, either on the classic tent field or in bungalows with sea views. That lets you focus almost entirely on your gear and the wind, without long drives to the beach. More on camping options in this corner of the island in our (German-language) article on La Maddalena, reachable from Palau by a short ferry ride.
Who the trip is worth it for
The area is worth a visit even without your own gear: several kite- and windsurf schools right at the spot offer lessons and equipment rental, and from the beach you can simply watch the colourful activity on the water. A postcard view of the La Maddalena archipelago in the background comes free of charge.