Tsimari, also known as Dioni Katochi Beach, is a hidden gem located at the mouth of the Acheloos River, about 40 km from Messolongi in western Greece. Tucked away in a remote lagoon area with no electricity or fresh water, this spot—fondly nicknamed “Flatland” by kitesurfers—offers a raw, unspoiled kiting experience unlike anywhere else.

This isolated paradise is suitable both for a day trip by car and for self-sufficient kiters traveling by campervan. While the nearest town is about 30 minutes away, there are no services directly on the beach, so visitors should come well-prepared with supplies, drinking water, and everything needed for an off-grid stay. For those who choose to stay longer, the spot offers a peaceful, remote environment perfect for life by the sea. Despite its isolation, a touch of civilization remains—Jorgos’s taverna still serves simple Greek meals, and a modern beach bar now adds a relaxed atmosphere with sea views.

A narrow sand spit extends into the sea and divides Tsimari into two distinct kitesurfing spots. On one side lies a butter-flat lagoon, perfect for freestyle riding. Thanks to the shape of the land and the wind orientation, the lagoon offers glassy, shallow water and a steady breeze—conditions many freestylers dream of. On the sea-facing side, riders will find more dynamic conditions: shallow water near the shore is ideal and safe for beginners, while the increasing depth and small, clean waves farther offshore are well-suited for riders seeking variety and fun. On lighter wind days, the deeper section can also be suitable for kitefoiling.

The spot works best with west to northwest winds, which blow onshore to side-onshore on the sea side, and offshore to side-offshore in the lagoon. In the summer months, a characteristic thermal wind builds up, usually kicking in around 6 PM and often lasting until sunset. This wind averages 10–16 knots, offering at least a 3-hour session of steady breeze nearly every day. On special days with a passing front, the wind can start as early as 11 AM and blow strongly through the night, reaching up to 20–25 knots in the afternoon as it's reinforced by the incoming thermals. However, there are also days when the wind doesn’t pick up at all—even the evening thermal fails—and complete calm sets in. For this reason, it’s always recommended to check the forecast in advance.

After a spring storm in 2022, the coastal landscape shifted—the sandbar changed shape and so did the lagoons—bringing a new layout to this ever-evolving spot. Despite the changes, Tsimari remains a tranquil yet wind-reliable haven for kitesurfers seeking solitude, space, and perfect flatwater sessions in a raw natural setting.

Current photos from June 2022 and a description of the surroundings can be found in the blog article here: www.spots4kite.com/blog/kitesurfing-at-tsimari-dioni-beach-flatland-part-i

In July 2024, new signs prohibiting parking and camping appeared around the Acheloos River area, including the nearby lagoons. At the same time, the entire region was designated as a protected area. Combined with the newly enforced national law restricting wild camping (2025) and vehicle parking in natural zones, it remains uncertain how accessible this location will be for kitesurfers and campervans in the upcoming season.