The crystalline waters and soft breezes of the Ría de Vigo estuary make it the ideal place to enjoy a wide variety of water sports. From surfing the waves to paddling your kayak, the Ría de Vigo estuary and its surroundings offer an exciting experience for any water sports enthusiast.
Surfing
One of the most popular water sports in the Ría de Vigo estuary is surfing. Surfers from all over the world come here to enjoy the consistent waves and the beauty of the landscape. The beach at Patos de Nigrán is the most popular one among surfers, as they can find a wide variety of waves that are suitable for all abilities.
You can also do bodyboarding there. This is an easier sport to get the hang of as it uses a small board, which is much more manageable for children.
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing is a fun and exciting sports activity that can be practised on permitted areas of the Ría de Vigo estuary, where weather conditions allow.
If you decide to go kitesurfing, you will need to check the weather forecast. Wind is an essential factor for this activity, so it is important that it is blowing in the right direction and is strong enough for you to carry out the activity safely.
Some of the areas where you can take part in this sport are the beach at Patos, Playa América in Nigrán, and at Vao beach in Vigo.
Paddle boarding
Another popular water sport on the Ría de Vigo estuary is paddle boarding (sometimes known as paddle surf). You can often see enthusiasts of this sport enjoying the amazing landscapes of the estuary while staying balanced on their boards. Beginners can take classes in the local paddle surf schools before heading out into the waters of the estuary on their own.
Kayaking
Kayaking is another popular way to explore the natural beauty of the Ría de Vigo estuary from the water. Those who want to practise this sport can hire kayaks and explore the estuary on their own or join a guided tour to see the most spectacular scenery of the estuary in the company of a professional. Kayak tours tend to include visits to nearby islands, beaches and other tourist attractions.
There are many places on the Ría de Vigo estuary where you can kayak. Many beaches at Baiona, Nigrán, Vigo and on the Morrazo peninsula have kayak hire services.
Jet-skis
You can also ride a jet-ski in some permitted locations on the estuary. When practising this activity, it is essential that you use the appropriate safety equipment, such as a life jacket and a helmet, as well as following the instructions of the staff providing the jet-ski hire service.
Snorkelling
You can snorkel just a few metres from the coast on the Cíes Islands and view the marine life of this area from under the water. As these waters are part of the Atlantic they can be quite cold, but they are worth diving in so you can admire the fauna that lives in this diverse ecosystem. Crustaceans, fish, molluscs, starfish, octopus, spider crab… The whole marine landscape makes this a unique experience for snorkelling in Spain.
To snorkel on the Cíes Islands, you first need to request permission to access from the Xunta de Galicia website, and then book your ticket on the Mar de Ons Ferry to travel there.
Diving
Diving is a very common activity in some areas of the Ría de Vigo estuary. This can be carried out in some areas of Baiona and the estuary, as well as on the Cíes Islands and Island of Ons.
As they are part of a protected Natural Park, to dive around the islands you will need some special permits which you can request on the website. As the water in this area of the estuary is quite cold, with an average temperature of between 16-18 ºC, using neoprene wetsuits is recommended.
Sailing
Sailing enthusiasts can also enjoy the Ría de Vigo estuary. More experienced sailors can explore the estuary on their sailing boats and enjoy the scenery with a little help from the gentle sea breeze. For beginners, the local sailing schools also offer classes to learn how to sail or to improve your skills.
Other water activities that are becoming increasingly fashionable, but which are not yet as common in the estuary, include water skiing and flyboarding. We are certain that, with time, they will be practised more and more, as the estuary is the perfect location to enjoy these experiences.
The Ría de Vigo estuary is certainly the perfect place for water sports enthusiasts. As you can see, there is a wide variety of activities to be enjoyed in this select location. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, the Ría de Vigo estuary has something to offer all sporting abilities and preferences.
