Heading towards the beach there's a beautiful flat
zone that seems to benefit from funnelling breeze. For
those into aerial contortionism (read freestyle) this is
your spot. Alternatively crank a gybe and head back
out for another run.
Lastly there's a downwind reef that isn't sailable. It's
pretty obvious, with fangs of lava protruding skyward,
so keep well clear as it takes no prisoners.
The kitesurfing element
Flag Beach is a place many visiting and local
kitesurfers head for. As such you'll never be alone on
the water. There was never any issue, however, as
kiters generally stay further upwind, and even if you
fancy playing in Flag’s waves then there’s plenty of
courtesy shown. As anyone will know when going
afloat keeping eyes and ears open is a must – as long
as this is adhered to then you’ll have no problem.
35
Corralejo
Staying in the north Corralejo is pretty much the main
tourist hotspot on the island. It’s a five minute drive
(give or take) from town to Flag or roughly 20 mins
walk. A whole plethora of accommodation types are
available to suit all budgets. The Flag Beach guys have
their own and can arrange this for your stay.
In terms of after hour’s ents you’ll find bars, restaurants
– traditional and not so authentic – as well as obligatory
clubs where you can rave it up until the wee hours (if
you wish). There’s also a water park (open in summer)
and various play areas for kids.
Over the years Corralejo has become rather built up, but
it doesn’t take long to get away from the hubbub. Even
with large volumes of tourists on the island we were
able to find our own space. Numbers increase for high
season, however, so keep this in mind.
Kit and other stuff Summing up
Flag Beach offer a variety of windsurfing equipment
choices featuring bang up to date Fanatic boards and
North rigs. As we were nearing the end of our trip the
crew had started receiving shiny new 2017 kit with
some of it straight out of the wrapper and onto the
water – there’s no messing about! For anyone
needing to sort wetties and harnesses this can be
arranged onsite with the FB team. As a winter windsurfing bolt hole, with the added
diversity of being able to offer other sports, Flag Beach,
and Fuerte as a whole, is a good choice for many. For
families who enjoy frolics in the ocean there’s plenty to
keep your little ones amused while mum and dad take
turns going for a blast, paddle or surf. There may be
more consistently windy spots available globally but for
an easy to access location, that’s generally hassle free,
Flag will tick the boxes for many.
Should the wind not blow then fear not as there’s
plenty of other entertainment to keep you occupied.
Centre side and guests will find catamarans, kayaks
and snorkelling paraphernalia. Also, this being the
Canaries, there’s always the option for a little surf –
be that trad style or with the aid of a paddle. We were
kindly allowed to take away Fanatic SUPs which were
put to good use in a variety of flat water and wave
spots. Be aware, however, if you do the same then
it’s your responsibility to take care of equipment.
Big thanks to Ben and the Flag Beach team
who helped out massively with this article.
Also props to Toby at Handiworld who kindly
provided the inflatable roofracks we used
extensively during our stay. Check out
www.flagbeach.com and www.handiworld.com
for more.
uk
WIND
SURFING