The Skyway, aka the Highway to Hell

[Steve-O]

RM3001

All is true as there are not that many great places for beginners to go. East Beach over the Skyway for sure. Gulf over the backside of the Skyway for sure on westerlies. Yes the gulf is deeper and wavier, but a bit more forgiving than the backside.

When riding Eastbeach on an East wind, just make sure you take the time to walk way upwind of the riding area. This will have to be done in about a foot of soft muck with your kite in the air, but it is the only way. This will allow you some riding time as you are going downwind before getting into the riding area. On southerly winds East Beach is more onshore so it is a bit more difficult to get away from the riding area. Bottom line, effort will need to be taken to stay clear of the riding area to keep yourself and others from getting tangled. Unfortunately, East beach can get crowded so get there on weekdays and early morning for least crowds.

Riding the gulf can have some advantages as you can just work yourself downwind for miles and take a trolley back to your car. Plenty of room and no walking. What could be better???

Hit these spots on winds that your are comfortable in and you will be fine. It is all about being patient and finding the right conditions for your ability level. There are no shortcuts.