Alaçati, on the Cesme peninsula of Turkey, opposite the Greek island of Chios and on the same latitude as Athens, is a perfect surfing spot on Turkey's Aegean shores. Until recently, Alaçati was a sleepy little village populated by fishers, craftsmen and farmers; now they share it with many enthusiastic kiters and windsurfers.
The combination of consistent winds and a very safe, nearly 500-m- long and 400-m-wide shallow section with completely flat water makes Alaçati an extremely attractive destination for beginners. Your learning curve is guaranteed to be steep here, and prices for accommodation and meals are more than reasonable.
THE MAIN BAY
The wind in Alacati is an accelerated meltemi that is funnelled through the hills. A local thermal effect caused by the dry hills heating up increases the strength. It has wind the whole year, with the strongest and most reliable in summer.
The combination of constant wind and a very safe shallow section with completely flat water make Alacati an extremely attractive destination for beginner kitesurfers. Sky Riders kite boat takes you daily to the best and safest spot. Unfortunately the local coast guard has limited the kiting area for 2005 so the area is only suitable for those on beginner courses, as kit storage and local boat transport is only provided for those people on courses.
Alacati has a variety of excursions and tours on offer within the resort and nearby. The hotel offers wakeboarding, water-skiing and has a tennis court.
There are dive centres in Cesme from where it is also possible to take day trips to Greece. It is also worth taking a day trip to Ephesus, one of the most famous antiquities in Turkey.
As with kiting Alacati is also suitable for a whole range of abilities of windsurfer and is an ideal place to learn to waterstart.
There are several bars and restaurants on the beach where food and drink is good value. Nearby Ilica (8km) and Cesme (15km) offer some more nightlife as well as some very nice restaurants around their picturesque harbours.
UK / EU passport holders: A full 10 year passport valid until at least 6 months after date of return. No visa required. Arrival tax is £10 payable in sterling.
Other passport holders: Please check with Turkish Embassy (0207 589 0949).
There are no compulsory inoculations if travelling from the UK but several are recommended. Please check with your GP or local travel health clinic for the latest advice.
OVERVIEW 
