Issue link: https://bluemagazine.uberflip.com/i/25179
Although it started as a wacky fringe sport. now kiteboarders are popping up on oceans, rivers and windy lakes all over the globe. "It's not as geographically prejudiced as other sports," says pro kiteboarder, Robby Naish. "Basically take any lake with 15-20 knots of wind and you're going off." With that in mind, here are some of the top stateside kiting spots near you. TEXT: MARK ANDERS NEW YORK CITY Kiteboarders praise the Northeast for its miles of windy coastline. big sa ndy beaches and good launching options. ~ HOUR RADIUS SEASIDE PARK (AT 13TH STREET!. NJ Although it can be very crowded when the conditions are good, Seaside Park is one of the top spots for kite boarding in New Jersey. During the summer months, the area's strong side onshore winds draw riders from near and far. The bay IS also very shallow and remains waist deep for several miles offshore-making It a great spot fOl" beginners. From the Garden State Parkway take Exit 88. Follow Route 37 east for 7 miles over the bridge and stay right towards Island Beach Slate Park; park at 13th Street. For more info and lessons contact Windsurfing Bayhead at 732-899-9394 or bayheadtrading.com. ~ HOUR RADIUS CRANDON PARK. KEY BISCAYNE. FL You're going to have to hop a plane for this one, but it's worth the trip: big open beaches, good launch spots and steady afternoon breezes. Although there are plenty of places to ride, Crandon Park in Key Biscayne is well loved for its warm, waist deep water and hearty winds. Summer weekends can be particularly crowded, so kiteboarding is not allowed on Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For reports and lessons contact Obsession Watersports at 800-664-5621 or obsessionwatersports.com. ~ HOUR RADIUS NAPEAGUE BAY. LONG ISLAND. NY Nestled between the towns of Napeague and Montauk, Napeague Bay is the premier kite boarding spot on Long Island. The bay is wide open and fairly shallow with big sandy beaches perfect for launch- ing. The best winds come from the south and southwest . regularly blowing between 15 and 20 knots. The bay's consistent Winds and calm waters make it a very popular spot for windsurfers, so begin- ners should avoid crowded areas. From the ci ty, take the Long Island expressway to Exit 70. From there, follow Sunrise Highway all the way to Napeague. Park by the bay and pick any part of the beach to rig up-Lazy Point is a good choice. For conditions, lessons and Info, call Main Beach Surf & Sport at 800-564-4386. 68