Tampa Kiting / Kite Shop
 

I will be on/off in Tampa for the next few months staying close to the airport. Are any of the luanches within 20 minutes or so of the airport?

Also any retail kite shops in Tampa as I need to get a new harness while I am up there this week?

The only kite shop in the are is Watersports West in Largo. You'll find a big selection of harnesses. Unfortunately they are about a 30 minute drive from the airport(but worth the trip). There is an Adrenalina store in the International mall which is right next to the airport that sells kite equipment. They have a small selection, have absolutely no knowledge of kiting and I'm sure charge an arm and a leg. If you're looking for a shop to walk into, support local and go to Watersports West. There are also a couple of "launch stalking van-bound retailers", but I'd skip that experience.
As far as spots near the airport there's Cypress wich is very close and Picnic Island. I'll let someone else enlighten you, as I've been to both places but never ridden there.

check www.kiteboardingtampabay.com for Tampa Bay area launch sites info.
A pair of booties is a good thing to have at most of our launches. ;)