Florida boasts 1,350 miles (about 2,170 km) of coastline, endless miles of vast sandy beaches, warm climate year-round, and strong, steady winds. All of it makes Florida one of the best destinations in the US for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The strongest winds start to blow on Florida's coast in October–November after the hurricane season, and it lasts until April or May. Winter season is also better for windsurfers and kitesurfers because the beaches are significantly less crowded.
Kiteboarding in South Florida
Southeast Florida is not only the warmest area in the colder season. It also boasts consistent winds and lots of infrastructure and amenities. In the Miami area, kiteboarders and windsurfers flock to North Miami Beach and Crandon Park, located on Key Biscayne. Calm, waist-deep, clear water, and access to the ocean make it a perfect spot for all levels. Check out Jupiter, located within a 1.5-hour ride from Miami, if you are an advanced rider. Islamorada and other Florida Keys destinations offer exciting wave-riding.
Kiteboarding in Central Florida
Central Florida is another rival for the title of the best kiteboarding destination in the state. North and Northwest winds bring large waves in the ocean, while there are still flat waters in sheltered areas. Cocoa Beach, located not far from Orlando, is one of the prime kitesurfing spots as it has some flat areas around Banana River. About 20 miles south of Cocoa Beach, there is another spot popular with kiters—Melbourne with some excellent intracoastal launch sites.
Kiteboarding in Northeast Florida
Northeast Florida has some excellent launch spots that offer both flat water and waves. In winter, cold fronts usually bring strong Northerly winds and big waves. In St. Augustine, kiteboarders dot the sea and the like at Matanzas Inlet and Porpoise Point. Jacksonville lures kitesurfers to Jax Beach and Neptune Beach.
Kiteboarding on the West Coast of Florida
Western Coast of Florida is washed by the Gulf of Mexico and has plenty of kitesurfing locations in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater area. In this part of Western Florida, check out Treasure Island, Fort Desoto Park, and Picnic Island—all excellent kitesurfing locations.
Windsurfing in Florida
American windsurfing tour traditionally starts in Florida, which has always been a primary destination for this sport. You will find plenty of rentals and schools in Miami-Dade County. Check out Windsurfer Beach on Biscayne Bay, Virginia Key, Crandon Park, and Matheson Hammock Park. Most of these locations have a good mix of wind, waves, and flat water.
Windsurfing on the West Coast and in South Florida
Westerly winds blow on the Gulf of Mexico coast. Destin, Marco Island, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park are popular destinations along the west coast of Florida. The Florida Keys are of course another top place for sailing and windsurfing, especially Islamorada and Key West.
Windsurfing on the East Coast of Florida
In the central part of the state, Merritt Island is indeed a unique location due to its fantastic nature and wildlife. Cocoa Beach, Fort Pierce, and Jupiter also have something to offer for a great windsurfing experience.
Practical info
When is the best time to go kitesurfing or windsurfing in Florida?
Florida's best kitesurfing and windsurfing time is from November to April. Strong consistent winds, less crowded beaches and near-perfect temperatures characterize this period, which starts in October and extends until May. Winter is the perfect exercise season in Florida with fewer tourists and lovely winds to make kitesurfing or windsurfing a fantastic experience for experts and beginners alike. Show more
Where are the best kitesurfing and windsurfing spots in Southeast Florida?
Southeast Florida is home to three excellent kitesurfing and windsurfing spots: North Miami Beach, Crandon Park, and Jupiter. North Miami and Crandon offer calm, clear, waist-deep waters that make them the go-to location for kiteboarders and windsurfers of all levels. More proficient riders can try out Jupiter or take the trip down to Florida's Keys destinations to get the best of wave riding and challenging waters. Show more
What are the best places in Northeast Florida for kiteboarding and windsurfing?
Matanzas Inlet and Porpoise Point are two popular spot choices in Northeast Florida. Matanzas Inlet provides both flat water and waves for kiteboarders. Winter brings northerly winds and enormous waves ideal for experienced riders. Jacksonville is home to Neptune and Jax Beach, which cater to riders of all levels. Kitesurfers looking for winter waves will equally find Jacksonville a good option. Show more
Where can I find windsurfing schools in the Miami-Dade County?
Miami-Dade County, a windsurfer's paradise with various currents and winds, offers some of Florida's best rentals and schools. Matheson Hammock Park, Crandon Park, Virginia Key, and Windsurfer Beach all offer certified rental services and professional lessons to suit beginners and intermediate riders. It's advisable to book a spot early for lessons or rentals as specialized services tend to fill up quickly. Show more
What are the best places for windsurfing in the central part of Florida?
Cocoa Beach and Merritt Island are two great central Florida spots for windsurfing with different appeals to visitors. Fort Pierce and Jupiter are other locations for great windsurfing experiences in Central Florida. Intermediate riders are, however, best suited to maximize these locations' full potential, thanks to vast water bodies and slightly more substantial winds. Beginners are advised to take lessons from rental shops and professional schools to ensure proper skill development. Show more
