Kiteboarding in California 2025
Just choose the right season and the right spot to enjoy your favourite water activity in the Sunny State
Best time: April–August
If you are looking for some kiteboarding, you'll find endless opportunities in California. The main problem you can face is a choice of the right beach and enough space for launching. Everybody in CA is doing the same thing as you, and everyone needs a spot on a beach. The most popular kiteboarding areas include the Bay Area, Central Coast, and Southern California to San Diego.
The constant wind you are looking for can be found in northern and central parts of the state. The strongest wind occurs in the north and gets lighter as you go down the coast. North-west winds are just perfect for kites. The region between Los Angeles and San Diego may be hidden from those winds, but you can still find several good spots for your favourite activity.
In LA the best season for kitesurfing is spring through summer, although Southern California wind is less predictable than in the north. Beginners may practise at Belmont Shore Beach, while other locations are for intermediate and advanced riders. Topanga on the west of LA has an advanced kiteboarding launch next to trees and houses. You'll definitely need a helmet. It may also be very crowded, as it is the closest kitesurfing spot to the city.
Leo Carillo, west of Malibu, is a sandy beach with some thermal side shore winds. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced riders. Zuma Beach in Malibu is a long stretch of sand and perfect conditions for intermediate kiteboarder. Morro Bay features small and medium waves, which are perfect for beginners, while Pismo Beach is advised for experienced riders only.
One of the most spectacular kiteboarding opportunities can be found at San Francisco Bay Area. Strong, reliable winds and great waves together with some flawless flat water locations make this area an ideal location for beginners and experienced riders alike. Ocean Beach and 3rd Avenue near San Mateo are the most popular spots. Beginners may also try some lighter winds at Alameda Crown Beach. Port Hueneme Beach won't be too crowded.
The strongest winds appear in April and May. In, June they are completely poor. In general, during summer months winds range between 15-25 knots. The best hours for kiteboarding are from 2 p.m. till sundown. Winter is also good for kitesurfing, but winds are less predictable than the summer thermal ones. They mainly appear after storms and blow side onshore. Some of them may be gusty and completely in the wrong direction. The strongest clearing winds appear between February and April. Water starts becoming much colder and a full wetsuit is highly recommended. That's why spring to summer seems to be a much better option to enjoy one of California's favorite water sports.
Practical info
When is the best time for kiteboarding in California?
Kiteboarders can enjoy the perfect winds from April to August in California. The winds are strongest at this time, ranging 15-25 knots, and are best from 2 p.m. until dusk. During winter, kiteboarders can still enjoy the sport, but winds are less predictable. They mainly occur after storms and blow side onshore. To be safe, wear full wetsuits and other safety gear while kiteboarding. The winter season, especially, warrants protective gear due to the unpredictable nature of the winds.
What are the best kiteboarding spots in Los Angeles?
Kiteboarding enthusiasts have several options in Los Angeles. Belmont Shore Beach is perfect for beginners, while intermediate to advanced riders are recommended to try Topanga. Advanced kiteboarding launch is next to trees and houses in Topanga. Beginners and advanced riders can both enjoy Leo Carillo west of Malibu. For intermediate kiteboarders, Zuma Beach in Malibu offers ideal conditions. Beginners can try their hand at Morro Bay, while experienced riders are invited to Pismo Beach. Enthusiasts can also find numerous good spots between Los Angeles and San Diego.
What is the wind like in northern and central California?
Kiteboarders looking for strong, constant winds will find the northwest wind in Northern and central California ideal for kitesurfing. The wind gets lighter as you go down the coast from north to south. San Francisco Bay Area is a favorite location for kiteboarding enthusiasts due to strong, reliable winds, ideal waves, and some perfect flat water locations that cater to all levels. While wind conditions in northern California are great, kiteboarders should note that wind conditions in Southern California are less predictable than the North.
Which San Francisco Bay Area beaches are suitable for kiteboarding?
Ocean Beach and 3rd Avenue near San Mateo are two of the most popular kiteboarding spots in San Francisco Bay Area. Additionally, beginners can try Alameda Crown Beach for lighter winds, while Port Hueneme Beach is ideal for kiteboarders looking for unimpeded access. San Francisco Bay Area boasts of reliable winds, great waves, and numerous flat water locations that cater to beginner and experienced kiteboarders alike.
What safety guidelines should kiteboarders follow in California?
Kiteboarding can be hazardous, and it is vital to follow safety guidelines when kiteboarding in California. To ensure a safe and enjoyable kiteboarding experience, check weather conditions before going out to kiteboard and wear appropriate gear, such as full wetsuits and safety gear. It is also essential to find enough space while launching and to be cautious of crowded beaches. Beginners should use the designated launching areas and exercise caution while kiteboarding close to trees and houses, such as Topanga. Ideally, kiteboarders should have an attendant or observer watching out for emergencies while kiteboarding.
