St Petersburg is filled with different launch spots for kiteboarding around Tampa Bay. Since St Petersburg is a peninsula, you can kiteboard on any wind direction. This launch spot guide is to show some of the different spots around Tampa Bay, the perspective wind directions, potential hazards and a general summary of each spot.
Kiteboarding Launch Spot Guide
Guide Rating
The ratings we provide are a general guide towards the beginner friendliness of a location. A five-star for example means that the location is extremely beginner friendly. A one-star means that the location is difficult due to a variety of reasons. The wind direction does effect the conditions at a given location. “Beginner friendliness” conditions of a specific location change due to variables such as wind strength, tide, and wind direction.
Skyway Bridge West
The Skyway Bridge is the most popular place to kiteboard in St Petersburg. There’s two launch sites, the West and the East, and the direction of the wind is what determines what side to choose.
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Skyway Bridge East
Skyway Bridge East is located off the same exit as the west launch area and is compatible with any wind coming out of the east.
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Fort Desoto East Beach
East Beach Fort Desoto features a grassy launch area and flat water. It’s a personal favorite and you’ll always find a good group of kiteboarders here.
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Fort Desoto North Beach
Fort Desoto North Beach is a great place to ride on a N or NW wind if you’re an experienced rider. Be aware that this is a popular spot for beachgoers so if you’re going to kiteboard here, walk to the far northern tip.
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Lassing Park
Lassing Park is located just south of Downtown St Petersburg. This public park features a nice grass launch area and shallow, flat water.
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St Pete Beach
St Pete Beach is a fun place to kiteboard in the St Petersburg area if you’re looking to get away from the kiteboard crowd.
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Scenic View
The Scenic View is a kiteboarding spot in the St Petersburg area. It is predominately for windsurfers and conditions have to be just right
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Lessons Locations
Kiteboarding lessons are primarily done at the Skyway Bridge or Fort Desoto depending on wind direction and tide. All lesson locations provide shallow and flat water ideal for learning. On weekends we utilize the support of a jetski to get away from other kiteboarders so that students are in their own environment. To schedule a lesson, fill out the form below:
