Kiteboarding at the Scenic View rest area off I-275 can be good under the right conditions. This spot is also known as the windsurfer’s spot. For this reason it is good to be respectful of them. Give them right of way and make sure to avoid a situation that would risk access.
Kitboarding at the Scenic View
If considering kiteboarding at the Scenic View, check the tides and wind direction. The tide should be low to access the launch area. High tide may cover the beach and that would result in no area to set up a kite. Another important variable is wind direction. The ideal wind directions are:
- ENE
- E
- ESE
- SE
If there is too much north in the winds, then the wind will come from over St. Petersburg. On a NE wind, the east side of Skyway Bridge rest area will have cleaner wind.
This spot is not as common for kiteboarders as the east side of the Skyway Bridge. Bring a friend to help launch if not proficient at drift launches. There are some deep spots that could create a difficult situation for newbie kiteboarders.
Scenic View Sand Bar
There is a sand bar that is shaped like a horseshoe that surrounds the Scenic View launch area. Around this sand bar are deep spots. Trying to learn in deep water is very difficult! New kiteboarders should avoid this area and go to the normal rest area at Skyway. More experienced riders should be aware of the deep water spots and where the sand bar is. Below is an image from Google Satellite.
