Platinum Sun’s Guide to Florida’s Best Kitesurfing Spots

Kitesurfing is making a big splash with free-thinking innovators like Richard Branson and Bill Tai advocating the increasingly versatile watersport. And just like those entrepreneurs, we have been inspired by kitesurfing – so much so that we created Platinum Sun thanks to our favorite windy past time! And since Platinum Sun’s home base is in Miami, we felt it fitting to fill you in on the Best Kitesurfing Spots in Florida. The selection is plentiful, so get ready!

Kiteboarding season in Tampa is November through April, with average wind speeds of around 20-30 knots. Although there aren’t many waves, there is still a considerable amount of chop. On the plus side, the area has several beaches that are suited for all levels of kiters. 

Kitesurfing in Tampa, FL can be a thrilling experience, but there are some important things that kitesurfers should know before hitting the water. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Location: Tampa Bay is a popular spot for kitesurfing in the area, with a few beaches that are particularly good for the sport, such as St. Pete Beach, Pass-A-Grille Beach, and Clearwater Beach.

• Wind conditions: The wind conditions in Tampa Bay can vary depending on the time of year. The best time to go kitesurfing is during the summer months when the wind is typically strongest, with average speeds of around 15-20 knots.

• Hazards: While kitesurfing in Tampa Bay can be fun, it's important to be aware of potential hazards such as boat traffic, underwater obstructions, and strong currents. It's important to know the area well and to always wear appropriate safety gear.

• Rules and regulations: There are specific rules and regulations that apply to kitesurfing in Tampa Bay, including requirements for equipment and certifications. It's important to familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Resources: There are several kitesurfing schools and rental shops in the Tampa Bay area that can provide equipment and instruction for beginners and experienced kitesurfers alike. It's a good idea to take lessons or get advice from a local expert before hitting the water.

Most popular kitesurfing spots (beaches) in Tampa, FL include: 

1. Skyway Bridge Beach
2. Fort De Soto Park
3. St. Pete Beach
4. Pass-a-Grille Beach
5. Anna Maria Island
6. Honeymoon Island State Park
7. Caladesi Island State Park
8. Clearwater Beach
9. Treasure Island

Good launches and light, consistent winds from any direction make Tampa, Honeymoon, and Caladesi Island popular kitesurfing spots.  A good ripping ride builds up when the winds are blowing from the southwest. Extra caution is necessary though since Honeymoon island is a “bird sanctuary,” so be eco-aware and kitesurf no closer than 150 yards from the beach. 

Unfortunately, there are no kitesurfing schools located directly on Honeymoon or Caladesi Island. 

Honeymoon Island:

• Honeymoon Island is a bird sanctuary, so kitesurfers should be eco-aware and avoid kiting too close to the beach. Stay at least 150 yards away from the beach to avoid disturbing the local wildlife.

• The winds at Honeymoon Island are typically light and consistent, making it a good spot for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed kitesurfing experience.

• It's important to be aware of potential hazards, such as boat traffic and underwater obstructions, and to wear appropriate safety gear.

Caladesi Island:

• Like Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island offers good launches and light, consistent winds from any direction.

• When winds are blowing from the southwest, kitesurfers can enjoy a ripping ride.

• As with Honeymoon Island, kitesurfers should be mindful of potential hazards and follow safety guidelines.

New riders will enjoy Treasure Island since it has plenty of wide open spaces. The wind is pretty strong, so this will also keep the more experienced riders happy. The waves are typically small, but in the event of a tropical storm, they can get large. Space can get busy with skim boarders, windsurfers, and surfers, so make sure you are paying attention. Safety first! 

Treasure Island, FL is a popular spot for kitesurfing, but there are some important things that kitesurfers should know before hitting the water. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Location: Treasure Island is located on the west coast of Florida, about 20 miles west of Tampa. The beach is long and wide, with plenty of room for kitesurfing.

• Wind conditions: The wind conditions in Treasure Island can vary depending on the time of year, but generally, the best winds occur during the spring and fall months. Average wind speeds range from 10-20 knots.

• Hazards: As with any kitesurfing spot, there are potential hazards to be aware of, such as boat traffic, underwater obstructions, and strong currents. It's important to know the area well and to always wear appropriate safety gear.

• Rules and regulations: There are specific rules and regulations that apply to kitesurfing in Treasure Island, including requirements for equipment and certifications. Kitesurfers should be aware of these rules and follow them to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Resources: There are several kitesurfing schools and rental shops in the Treasure Island area that can provide equipment and instruction for beginners and experienced kitesurfers alike.

  • Elite Watersports
  • Island Action Sports
  • Kiteboarding Tampa Bay
  • Watersports West

These schools offer equipment rentals, lessons, and other resources for beginners and experienced kitesurfers alike. It's always a good idea to take lessons or get advice from a local expert before hitting the water.

With unspoiled natural surroundings, Fort Desoto Park is perfect for beginners. Flat, shallow water makes it easy to check out your riding style in the reflection. 

With unspoiled natural surroundings, Fort Desoto Park in Florida is a popular spot for kitesurfing. Here are some key points to keep in mind before hitting the water:

• Location: Fort Desoto Park is located in St. Petersburg, Florida, on the western coast of the state. The park features six miles of beach, two fishing piers, and over 300 camping sites.

• Wind conditions: The wind conditions at Fort Desoto Park can vary depending on the time of year, but generally, the best winds occur during the spring and fall months. Average wind speeds range from 10-20 knots.

• Hazards: As with any kitesurfing spot, there are potential hazards to be aware of, such as boat traffic, underwater obstructions, and strong currents. It's important to know the area well and to always wear appropriate safety gear.

• Rules and regulations: Kiteboarding is allowed in most areas of Fort Desoto Park, with the exception of North Beach where it is restricted. There are specific rules and regulations that apply to kitesurfing in the park, including requirements for equipment and certifications. Kitesurfers should be aware of these rules and follow them to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Resources: There are several kitesurfing schools and rental shops in the Fort Desoto Park area that can provide equipment and instruction for beginners and experienced kitesurfers alike. Here are some of the most popular kitesurfing schools in the area:

  • Elite Watersports
  • Kiteboarding Tampa Bay
  • Watersports West
  • Tampa Bay Kiteboarding Association (TBKA)
  • 321 Kiteboarding & Watersports

Tiger Tail Beach in Marco Island is a favorite kite spot in this area. Kite surfers of all levels can use the waters to practice freestyle, free riding, long distance, and speed riding. There is an open and clean water riding area facing the Gulf with winds from the north-northwest to west and south-southeast directions. 

Here are some key points to keep in mind before hitting the water:

• Location: Tiger Tail Beach is located on the southern end of Marco Island, which is about a 20-minute drive from Naples. The beach offers a wide and open water riding area that faces the Gulf of Mexico.

• Wind conditions: The best winds for kiteboarding at Tiger Tail Beach come from the north-northwest to west and south-southeast directions. The winds can range from 10-25 knots, depending on the time of year. The best time to ride here is during high tide from November through May.

• Hazards: As with any kitesurfing spot, there are potential hazards to be aware of, such as boat traffic, underwater obstructions, and strong currents. It's important to know the area well and to always wear appropriate safety gear.

• Rules and regulations: There are specific rules and regulations that apply to kitesurfing at Tiger Tail Beach, including restrictions on where and when kitesurfing is allowed. Kitesurfers should be aware of these rules and follow them to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Resources: There are several kitesurfing schools and rental shops in the Naples area that can provide equipment and instruction for beginners and experienced kitesurfers alike. Here are some of the most popular kitesurfing schools in the area:

  • Naples Kiteboarding and Surf School
  • Marco Island Water Sports
  • F-One Kites

Cherie Down Park is a seven-acre beach park that boasts of a 200-ft. boardwalk dotted with picnic shelters. YES, that means it can get crowded on weekends and holidays. The advantage of this spot the large parking area…when it’s not packed. Still, what makes this place popular with kite boarders and windsurfers are the really big waves on a wide beach at low tide! Heaven. You can also ride from almost every wind direction here.

Here are some things to keep in mind when kitesurfing at this location:

• Location: Cherie Down Park is a seven-acre beach park located in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
• Wind conditions: This spot offers good riding conditions from almost every wind direction, making it suitable for kitesurfers of all levels.
• Hazards: The big waves at Cherie Down Park can be a hazard for inexperienced riders. It's important to always assess the conditions and your own skill level before heading out.
• Rules and regulations: As with any kitesurfing spot, it's important to check for any local regulations or restrictions before riding. There may be designated launch and landing areas, as well as rules about riding distance from shore and other water users.
• Resources: There are several kitesurfing schools and rental shops in the area, including Air and Earth and Good Breeze Kiteboarding, that offer lessons and gear rentals for those looking to get started or try out new equipment. Here are some kite schools that are located within 5 miles of Cherie Down Park:
  • Ron Jon Kiteboarding - located in nearby Cocoa Beach, offering lessons, gear rentals, and sales.
  • Air Pirates Kiteboarding - located in nearby Cocoa Beach, offering lessons, gear rentals, and sales.
  • KGB Kiteboarding - located in nearby Cocoa Beach, offering lessons, gear rentals, and sales.

520 Slick is a world-renowned kitesurfing spot located in Cocoa Beach, Florida. A.K.A. 520 Boat Ramp is for advanced riders only since the spot has a very technical launch area covered by mangroves. Amateurs, sorry but you just can’t even attempt to ride here. Wind directions are good from north, north northwest, northwest to west. Most people choose to wear booties in this area because the bottom is mucky. The spot is famous for its flat and shallow water. Here are some key things to know about kitesurfing at 520 Slick:

• Location: 520 Slick is located in Cocoa Beach, Florida, near the Cocoa Beach Pier.
• Wind conditions: The best wind direction for kitesurfing at 520 Slick is from the east to southeast. Wind speeds typically range from 10 to 20 knots.
• Hazards: While the water at 520 Slick is generally calm, there are some hazards to be aware of, including shallow areas, rocks, and submerged structures.
• Rules and regulations: Kitesurfing is allowed at 520 Slick, but there are some rules and regulations to follow. Riders should stay at least 100 feet away from other riders and any obstacles in the water. Additionally, riders should avoid launching and landing their kites near any pedestrians or wildlife.
• Resources: There are several kite schools located in Cocoa Beach that offer lessons, gear rentals, and sales. Some of the kite schools located near 520 Slick include:
  •  Air Pirates Kiteboarding
  • Ron Jon Kiteboarding
  • KGB Kiteboarding

Pompano Beach has conditions for extreme kitesurfing! The area is loaded with safety limitations because the riders and the kitesurfing community have been fighting for years to keep the area an open kite surfing spot. Make sure you get acquainted with the rules because local authorities are quite strict. It’s a good idea to understand your limits, be careful, and of course, respect the people there. Kitesurfing is only allowed at Northeast 13th St. and Northeast 16th St. Break the rules and the locals will pop your kite, and worse, authorities will ticket you. West winds are off limits on Pompano Beach.

• Location: Pompano Beach Kitespot is located at the north end of Pompano Beach, near the Pompano Pier. It can be accessed by the public beach parking lot on NE 5th St.
• Wind conditions: The best wind direction for kitesurfing at Pompano Beach is from the east to southeast, with wind speeds ranging from 10 to 25 knots. The wind can be quite gusty, so be sure to keep an eye on the forecast and adjust your kite size accordingly.
• Hazards: The water at Pompano Beach is generally calm, but there are a few hazards to be aware of, including occasional seaweed and jellyfish. Additionally, the beach can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so be sure to stay a safe distance from other beachgoers.
• Rules and regulations: The only areas where kitesurfing is permitted within the city limits are Northeast 13th St and Northeast 16th St. Please note that kitesurfers must ride outside the buoys in these designated areas.
• Resources: There are several kite schools located in Pompano Beach that offer lessons, gear rentals, and sales. Some of the kite schools located near Pompano Beach Kitespot include:

  • Highfly Kiteboarding - located at 1800 NE 5th St, Pompano Beach, FL 33060

  • Kiteology - located at 101 N Ocean Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062 

  • Pompano Beach Kiteboarding - located at 220 N Ocean Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Every year kiteboarders from all over the globe come to Crandon Park in Miami to showcase their best talents and tricks for the public at The Kitemasters. The event consists of slalom racing and freestyle riding for Pro Men’s, Women’s, Junior and Masters. You know what that means, during non-competition time, the area is great spot to develop your skills in kitesurfing like the pros do. 

Crandon Park is a picturesque kitesurfing spot in Miami, Florida, renowned for its crystal clear, shallow blue waters. It is an ideal location for kitesurfing, offering a huge area of shallow water. Although the setup area may be small during high tide, the shallow waters make it a great spot to launch. The sandy bottom is accompanied by seagrass as the water gets deeper. Here are some key things to know about kitesurfing at Crandon Park:

• Location: Crandon Park is located on the east coast of Miami, Florida, near the village of Key Biscayne. 
• Wind conditions: The best wind direction for kitesurfing at Crandon Park is from the east to southeast. Wind speeds typically range from 10 to 20 knots. 
• Hazards: While the water is generally calm, kitesurfers should be aware of the shallow areas and submerged structures that can pose hazards. 
• Rules and regulations: Crandon Park has specific rules and regulations in place to ensure safety and proper usage of the area. All kitesurfers must sign in at the MKB Truck on the parking lot, and only yearly members or daily pass holders are permitted to kitesurf. A maximum of 25 riders are allowed on the water, and only advanced kitesurfers Level 3 are permitted to kitesurf. 
• Resources: Kitesurfing certification and personal insurance are mandatory requirements at Crandon Park. Kite school is available in the area:
  • Miami Kiteboarding (MKB)

Stiltsville has perfect conditions for kite surfing enthusiasts since the water is flat, shallow, and warm! These qualities seem to allow new students to develop their skills a lot quicker. Not to mention, the view is fantastic! There is a community of charming wooden houses on a huge sandbank that is only accessible by boat. Here are some key things to know about kitesurfing at Stiltsville:

• Location: Stiltsville is located in the northern part of Biscayne Bay, Florida, south of Cape Florida State Park. 
• Wind conditions: The best wind direction for kitesurfing at Stiltsville is from the east to southeast, with wind speeds typically ranging from 10 to 20 knots. 
• Hazards: While the water at Stiltsville is generally calm, kitesurfers should be aware of the shallow areas and submerged structures that can pose hazards. 
• Rules and regulations: Kitesurfing is allowed at Stiltsville, but there are some rules and regulations to follow. Riders should avoid launching and landing their kites near any structures, and should also stay at least 100 feet away from other riders and any obstacles in the water. Additionally, riders should be mindful of boats passing through the area and give them the right of way.
•  Resources:There are several kite schools located in Miami that offer lessons, gear rentals, and sales. Some of the kite schools located near Stiltsville include:
  • South Florida Kiteboarding
  • Kiteboarding Miami Beach

Islandmorada Kitespot is a top destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts looking for diverse wind conditions and stunning views. Here are some essential things to know about kitesurfing at Islandmorada Kitespot:

• Location: Islandmorada Kitespot is located in the Florida Keys, approximately 82 miles south of Miami. The spot is easily accessible from the Overseas Highway, which connects the islands in the Keys.
• Wind conditions: One of the unique features of Islandmorada Kitespot is that you can ride in any wind direction. Wind speeds typically range from 10 to 20 knots, with the best conditions from November to April. Launching from the knee-deep water is effortless, and you can ride far offshore and still be in shallow water.
• Hazards: While the water at Islandmorada Kitespot is generally shallow and flat, riders should be aware of the obstacles on the bottom. It is recommended to bring polarized glasses to improve visibility and avoid any potential hazards.
• Rules and regulations: Kitesurfing is allowed at Islandmorada Kitespot, but riders must follow some rules and regulations. Riders should launch and land their kites away from other riders and any structures, boats, or swimmers. It is also essential to stay at least 100 feet away from any obstacles in the water.
• Resources: There are several kite schools located in the Florida Keys that offer lessons, gear rentals, and sales. Some of the kite schools located near Islandmorada Kitespot include:
  • Goodwind Kitesurfing: offers lessons and gear rentals for all levels of riders.
  • Otherside Boardsports: offers kitesurfing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding lessons and rentals.
  • Islamorada Kiteboarding: offers lessons, gear rentals, and sales for kiteboarding and hydrofoiling.

Another famous spot in the Keys is Anne’s Beach in Lower Matecumbe Key thanks to the crystal blue, shallow water. While the setup area is small during high tide, the water is shallow therefore it is still a good area to launch. If you seek flat water kite boarding spot, this is the place for you especially if you are a beginner. The downside though is Anne’s Beach gets pretty crowded during weekends.

• Location: Lower Matecumbe Key is located in the Florida Keys, between Plantation Key and Islamorada. Anne's Beach is situated around Mile Marker 74 on Lower Matecumbe Key.
• Wind conditions: The wind conditions in Lower Matecumbe Key are typically from the east-northeast to east to south-southwest. Kiteboarders can expect a range of 10 to 20 knots of wind speed.
• Hazards: One of the potential hazards for kiteboarders at Anne's Beach is the shallow water. While this is great for beginners, riders should be cautious and watch where they perform their tricks. The beach can get crowded during weekends, so riders should also be aware of other kitesurfers and swimmers in the water.
• Rules and regulations: There are no specific rules and regulations for kiteboarding at Anne's Beach, but it is important to be respectful of other beachgoers and follow general kiteboarding etiquette. Riders should also take care to properly dispose of any trash or equipment after their session.
• Resources: Otherside Boardsports is a kiteboarding school located near Anne's Beach in Islamorada. They offer lessons and gear rentals for riders of all levels. Additionally, a few other kiteboarding schools are located in the area including Keys Cable.

The island community of Marathon in the Florida Keys is home to another popular kitesurfing spot, Curry Hammock Park. Here are some essential things to know about kitesurfing at Curry Hammock:

• Location: Curry Hammock Park is located on both sides of US-1, starting at Little Crawl Key, Mile Marker 56.2, and 11 miles west of Long Key. The park's entrance is on the ocean side of US-1.
• Wind conditions: Curry Hammock Park is a top destination during great predicted wind weekends, which can get pretty crowded with kiters during those times. Wind directions are from east-northeast to east to west-southwest, making it a good spot for riders of all levels. The park offers tons of flat shallow water, and a big sandbar is located 1/4 mile to the east. Riders can expect to see rays, sharks, tarpon, bonefish, baitfish, ospreys, and bald eagles.
• Facilities: Curry Hammock Park is a Florida State Park, and it is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Amenities include soda machines, bathrooms, running water, pavilions with picnic tables and grills. There is also a grassy setup area to keep sand off of your kite.
• Admission fees: Admission to the park costs $5 per vehicle with a limit of 2-8 people per vehicle, $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers, $4 for single-occupant vehicles or motorcycles, and an additional $0.50 per person Monroe County Surcharge. Camping is available for $36 per night, plus tax, and includes water and electricity.
• Precautions: Riders should be aware of some hazards, including submerged rocks and super slippery mud (marl) at the water's edge. Booties or foot protection are recommended, especially for beginners due to sharp rocks, urchins, and coralline algae. Riders should also watch out for park volunteers in golf carts who sometimes run over kite lines with their carts.
• Rules and regulations: Riders should keep 300 feet (100 yards) from the shoreline on the campground side of the fence when riding. It is also important to roll up your lines when not flying to prevent trip hazards.
• Resources: For those interested in kiteboarding at Curry Hammock Park in Marathon, Florida, there are several kite schools in the area that offer lessons, rentals, and sales. Some of the kite schools located near Curry Hammock Park include:

  • Florida Keys Kiteboarding: offers beginner to advanced lessons, gear rentals, and sales.

  • Seven Sports: offers kiteboarding, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding lessons, rentals, and sales.

  • Keys Cable: offers wakeboarding and kiteboarding lessons, rentals, and sales.

  • Kiteboarding Key West: offers kiteboarding lessons, rentals, and sales.

  • Keys Kiteboarding and Paddleboarding: offers lessons for kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Key West boasts of some of the most consistent winds in the entire state of Florida. The wind is best from east, south or southwest. The most popular area is Smathers Beach – near the last jetty at the east end of the beach – where there is plenty of room to rig your gear and launch. BONUS: Smathers Beach has bathrooms at the west end of the beach! The area is crowded in season, and beginners need to beware of the roadway and power lines. Kitesurfing areas are designated, launch areas are regulated, and many restrictions apply.

• Location: Smathers Beach is located near the last jetty on the eastern end of the beach in Key West, Florida. To get there, take US-1 until the end of the USA/Florida, and when you reach Key West, stay to your left on 1A (S. Roosevelt Blvd). The park will be around the bend on the left-hand side.
• Wind conditions: The wind conditions in Smathers Beach are ideal from east, south, or southwest, making it one of the best kiteboarding spots in Florida. The winds are typically rideable with E to S to WSW winds.
• Facilities: Smathers Beach has a small fake sandy beach that is perfect for setup. It also has a sticky peat bottom close to the shore line and some areas of hard bottom offshore. The beach provides ample space for kiteboarders to rig their gear and launch. There are even bathrooms available on the western end of the beach. Along the road, there are also bathroom and shower facilities, and if you head down the beach a little way, you can purchase food and drinks from vendors.
• Admission fees: There are no admission fees to access Smathers Beach.
• Rules and regulations: Kiteboarders should take precautions when kiteboarding at Smathers Beach. There are powerlines and a street near the launch area, so beginners need to be extra cautious to avoid getting their kites caught in the power lines. Kiteboarders should also stay away from swimmers and beachgoers and be careful not to hit the jetties. It's important to note that kitesurfing areas are designated, launch areas are regulated, and many restrictions apply to ensure everyone's safety.
• Resources: For those interested in taking kiteboarding lessons or renting gear, there are several kite schools operating in the Key West area, including Key West Kite School, Keys Cable, Miami Kiteboarding, Florida Keys Kitesurfing, Lazy Dog Adventures, 305 Kiteboarding, Goodwind's Kitesurfing, Island Time Kiteboarding, Kite House Key West, and Southernmost Kiteboarding.