San Francisco – Crissy Field
United States · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil
About this spot
Crissy Field is a former military airfield right on San Francisco Bay with an open view of the Golden Gate Bridge. The summer westerly – the "Summer Breeze" – is funnelled through the Golden Gate and fills in between Anita Rock and the channel. It regularly delivers 16–20 knots, much more on good days; the wind is gusty, though, and can swing from 5 to over 40 knots.
The best wind months are March to October, often with four to seven windy days a week. The water is choppy and the bay carries strong tidal current of up to around 4.5 knots. When is the best time to visit Crissy Field? Late spring to early autumn, when the thermal westerly is most reliable. The spot is demanding and belongs to experienced riders: clean upwind riding, jibing in gusty wind and current knowledge are essential.
Location
Insider tips
Safest is a starting ebb just after slack water; a flood makes holding upwind very hard. The wind fills in best between Anita Rock and the channel. Because of the gusts, keep some reserve in your gear – swings from 5 to 40 knots are possible.
⚠︎ Hazards
Strong tidal current up to about 4.5 knots; on the ebb there is a risk of being washed out under the bridge into open ocean. Gusty, jumpy wind and cold water. Shipping traffic in the gate. Not for beginners.
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