About us
25+ years of passion and sharing our love for kitesurfing
What were you doing in 1998?
Mathieu, a French naval engineer and passionate waterman, moved to Tarifa—then a windsurfing hub—to craft boards. As kitesurfing emerged, he quickly mastered it and began teaching. In 1998, he founded Tarifa Max, one of the first kitesurfing schools in the area.
Over the next 25+ years, he grew it into the most recognized school in Tarifa, known for innovative teaching and harmony with nature. Thousands of kitesurfers have since started their journey with Matt and his team.
The Next Chapter
Over twenty years later, in 2018, Giulia discovered Tarifa Max during her very first kitesurfing course. What began as a holiday soon grew into a lifelong passion and a deep connection with the sport. By 2020, she had left her corporate life behind to embrace Tarifa as home, becoming first an instructor, then manager, and today the proud owner of the school.
Mathieu, founder of Tarifa Max, continues to teach with her and share his passion on the water, ensuring the spirit of the early days lives on. Together, they keep the school’s legacy alive—guided by their love for the ocean and the sport, and dedicated to welcoming every new rider into the Tarifa Max family.
What are you waiting for to ride 2025?
Kitesurfing is more than a sport—it’s freedom, adrenaline, and a connection with the ocean like no other. If you’re ready to challenge yourself, try something new, or simply feel alive again, Tarifa Max is waiting for you. With top-quality gear, supportive instructors, and a community that rides together, you’ll discover strength you didn’t know you had—and a passion you’ll never want to let go.
At Tarifa Max we support you with our proven approach:
- proven teaching based on the IKO method (International Kiteboarding Organization)
- flexible organization to adapt to your needs and desires
- and above all: passionate instructors, speaking several languages
Meet the Crew Behind the Ride
We’re not just instructors—we’re passionate kitesurfers who know these winds like the back of our hands.
From beginners to pros, we’re here to guide your ride with experience and stoke.
MATHIEU
Founder of the school in 1998 (& Instructor), he continues to be as passionate as on the first day.
- IKO certified
- Speaks French, English and Spanish
GIULIA
Owner and Head Instructor. Responsible for reservations, she will organize everything for you with her Italian passion.
- IKO L3 and FAV certified.
- Speaks Italian, English, Spanish and French
GAUTIER
Beach Boss (& Instructor), he pampers the team so that they pamper you.
- IKO certified.
- Speaks French, English and Spanish
ABDEL
Quiet strength, coming from Morocco and windsurfing.
- IKO certified
- Speaks Arabic, French, English and Spanish
GIANLUCA
The force NOT quiet, coming from South Africa and very strong wind.
- IKO certified
- Speaks Cape Town English
NILO
Future beach assistant, in full training.
- Speaks Italian, Spanish, English, French
LA FURGO
Our Operations Center, a faithful traveling companion.
- 100,000 km between Tarifa, Los Lances and Valdevaqueros
In town or on the beach, always ready to kite with you
Rip Curl Kite Shop
You can find us in this wonderful shop on the main street and take advantage of the Tarifa Max discounts to equip yourself with a wetsuit or dress like a kitesurfer
Playa De Los Lances
As soon as it’s windy, that’s where you can find us: you can’t miss our van or our flag