Introduction
Welcome to Lo Stagnone, a shallow lagoon on Sicily’s western coast that’s become a mecca for kitesurfers across Europe. Known for its butter-flat water, consistent winds, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where mornings begin with yoga and end with mojitos at sunset parties.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just learning to fly, this corner of Sicily delivers the perfect blend of sport, culture, and slow-living Italian charm.
Getting There
You’ve got two main airport options:
- Trapani–Birgi (Marsala) Airport – just 10 minutes from the kite spot
- Palermo Airport – around 1 hour away by car
I flew into Palermo and took a Salemi bus directly to Birgi Airport for only €9. From there, a quick €25 taxi got me to Birgi Vecchi — the main kite village.
🚴♀️ Pro tip: If you’re staying local, a bike is enough. I got one for free from my apartment, and bike lanes connect Birgi to Marsala, passing through scenic salt flats (the saline).
The Kite Scene
Lo Stagnone is a kiteboarding paradise:
- Super shallow lagoon — ideal for beginners and freestylers
- Thermal winds most of the year
- Wide, open spaces with plenty of launch zones
- International crowd — you’ll hear more English than Italian at the kite schools
I kited with Primesurf, a popular school that also organizes:
- Morning yoga sessions (yes, your muscles will thank you)
- Saturday pizza nights
- Group outings for no-wind days
Instructors are friendly, professional, and from all over Europe. The vibe is relaxed, but the coaching is top-notch.
Wind Forecast
- Best months: September & October (warm water + steady wind)
- April: Windy but cold — bring a wetsuit
- June (when I went): Hit or miss — 2 days of perfect wind, 1 okay day (used a 15m kite), and 3 windless days
- July–August: Possible, but less reliable
⚠️ Heads-up: There’s an algae in the water that might sting. A wetsuit + booties are highly recommended.
Where to Stay: Baglio Tuzza
I stayed at Baglio Tuzza, and it felt like home:
- Super clean, with owners who clean multiple times a day
- On arrival: a bottle of wine of your choice
- Daily fresh fruit & vegetables from their garden
- Delicious Neapolitan espresso and breakfast treats
- Free bike included
The hosts are warm, helpful, and always around if you need tips or help. Can’t recommend it enough.
What to Do (When You’re Not Kiting)
Sunset & Nightlife
- Le Vie del Vento: Beach chiringuito with sunset parties, DJ sets, and a good crowd. I went on a Sunday — music went late, but the real party is during golden hour.
- Chill, house music vibes. Great cocktails and a nearby food truck.
Local Eats
- Don Matteo: Best mojito in town, top-notch Sicilian food, and Matteo himself — an absolute legend. He’ll tell you stories of celebrities who’ve dined there. A must-visit.
- La Peola: For an aperitif in the vineyards, this place is unbeatable. Book online. They serve their own wine with gorgeous bruschetta and charcuterie platters — including a unique fish-based one that was mind-blowing. You can sit on benches, recline on the grass, or enjoy high seating under the stars.
Explore the Area
- Marsala: The nearby town is worth a visit for wine tastings, strolls through historic streets, and a break from the kite world.
- Favignana Island: Take a ferry and spend a day swimming in some of the clearest waters in Sicily.
- Puzziteddu: If the wind dies at Lo Stagnone, drive an hour south to this alternate kitesurf spot. Great fallback.
Need to Know
- Stagnone Mini Market is the only small shop nearby. It’s tiny, slightly pricey, and has unreliable hours (don’t trust Google Maps for this). If you’ve got a car, do a proper grocery run in Marsala or further out.
Final Thoughts
Kiting in Lo Stagnone is more than just a sport — it’s a lifestyle. Between the easy-going kite schools, warm lagoon water, epic sunsets, and delicious Sicilian food, it’s easy to see why this place keeps pulling people back.
Whether you’re chasing your first water start or landing your next trick, Lo Stagnone is a perfect mix of wind, wellness, and wine.
Boarding Beats 