Squamish – The Spit
Canada · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil
- Best winds S (thermal)
- Level Intermediate · Pro
- Water Chop
- Best months Jun–Sep
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.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
The wind at this spot is mainly local (thermals, funnelling between mountains or shores). The weather model with its roughly 9 km grid does not capture it and shows hardly any wind here – so we do not show wind-day statistics. For the season, see the spot description.
| Month | Avg wind | Direction | Air |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 2 kn | — | 4 °C |
| February | 2 kn | — | 4 °C |
| March | 2 kn | — | 8 °C |
| April | 2 kn | — | 10 °C |
| May | 3 kn | — | 16 °C |
| June | 3 kn | — | 21 °C |
| July | 3 kn | — | 25 °C |
| August | 3 kn | — | 25 °C |
| September | 3 kn | — | 21 °C |
| October | 2 kn | — | 14 °C |
| November | 2 kn | — | 7 °C |
| December | 2 kn | — | 3 °C |
Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
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.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Squamish – The Spit suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Squamish – The Spit is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Chop).
Which wind works at Squamish – The Spit?
Best with wind from S (thermal).
When is the best time for Squamish – The Spit?
The best months are considered to be Jun–Sep.
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