Luv Spot, Karpathos

When even the strongest are overpowered on the east coast, or if you’re desperate for some waves, hire a car and head here. The Meltemi is a Force or three lighter, and Luv Spot's little reef-break is an option for getting into wavesailing. However, especially in August it can get a bit crowded – and it's not as easygoing as it looks. Be careful on the reef surrounding the inner bay which offers only two passages to open sea. The rocks just beneath the surface are razor sharp – and infested with sea urchins too. Don't even think about standing there, even for a quick break! The wind waves further out are quite harmless plus the wind's more constant. But be sure you can make it back in as there's only one emergency exit downwind in the bay in front of the airport, then the next landfall is Libya!