Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Santa Barbara's
Leadbetter Beach
is another good spot for beginners to learn.
In LA County, you'll see lots of action off
Belmont Shores
near Long Beach and
Point Fer-
min
near San Pedro.
Offshore from San Francisco's
Crissy Field
is a favorite spot for experienced boarders.
The wind literally howls as it squeezes into the bay.
Rentals & Lessons
The learning curve in windsurfing is steeper than other board sports - imagine balancing
on a fast-moving plank through choppy waters while trying to read the wind and angle the
sail just so. At most windsurfing hot spots, a half-day introductory lesson costs $100 to
$150.
Although it's harder to get started kiteboarding, experts say it's easier to advance
quickly once the basics are down. Beginner kiteboarding lessons start at over $200, and
usually take place over a few days. The first lesson is spent learning kite control on the
beach and the second lesson gets you into the water.
Windsurfing gear rentals cost about $50 to $75 per day for a beginner's board and har-
ness. Most windsurfing shops usually won't rent kite gear to people who aren't also taking
kiteboarding lessons.
Resources
iWindsurf
(
www.iwindsurf.com
)
Wind reports, weather forecasts, live wind-cams and active
discussion forums.
iKitesurf
(
www.ikitesurf.com
) Primo locations, wind reports and more for aspiring and ex-
perienced kiteboarders.
Whale-Watching
During their annual migration, gray whales can be spotted off the California coast from
December to April, while blue, humpback and sperm whales pass by in summer and fall.
Just about every port town worth its sea salt along the coast offers whale-watching boat
excursions, especially during winter. You can try your luck whale-watching while staying
