Squamish – The Spit
Canada · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil
About this spot
The sand spit at the northern end of Howe Sound in British Columbia sits where the Squamish River meets the sea. A thermal inflow wind builds here: the sun heats the land faster than the water, the rising warm air draws cooler air up the sound toward the Whistler mountains. The wind usually shifts to southerly between 8 and 10am and builds quickly to 20–25 knots. A classic summer kite spot in western Canada with a mountain backdrop and choppy freshwater.
When is the best time to visit Squamish? May to September delivers the most reliable thermal, which sets in late morning and peaks in the afternoon. The wind blows offshore off the spit – the spot suits more advanced, confident riders who can ride upwind and self-rescue.
Location
Insider tips
Cold mountain freshwater (around 5–8 °C) – a 5 mm wetsuit is advisable. Wait for the southerly thermal that fills in late morning; at 20–25 kn mid-size kites fit.
⚠︎ Hazards
Off the spit the wind is offshore – only head out if you can ride upwind, recover your board and self-rescue. The thermal can build quickly and turn strong in the afternoon, and the water is very cold.
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