Schools We Love
Big Winds
www.bigwinds.com/kite/lessons/
Big Winds has one of the most professional instruction centers in the Gorge for beginning and experienced kiters interested in learning the sport or taking their skills to the next level. From Kite Control Lessons to Progression Camps, they cover it all. They provide jet ski support for water lessons and their instructors are awesome. They can be found in downtown Hood River and on the web where they have a fantastic selection of products.
Jetty Island Kite & Skim
www.gokiting.com/
Jetty Island hosts shallow and mild waters (by Pacific Northwest standards), steady winds, and large uncluttered beaches for one of the best kiteboarding experiences in the Northwest. Contact Jason Clack at his new shop at the Everett waterfront, for lessons and gear. His lessons come with full waverunner support, and there are bathrooms and showers at the park. If you get to the point where you want to buy a kite or a board, the shop even offers a “Fly before you buy” guarantee. Demo any kite or board before you lay down the cash!
Air Padre Kiteboarding
www.airpadrekiteboarding.com
Air Padre is located in South Padre Island (SPI), Texas, a very easy and affordable place to fly into for some quick kiteboarding lessons in warm conditions. SPI boasts warm, flat and shallow water, consistent winds and tropical temperatures -- all perfect for kiteboarding. Air Padre takes their students out into the shallow Laguna Madre (a very large bay) via boat, away from the crowds of one of the more popular teaching beaches. It is the perfect setup for students who don't want to learn around a lot of other beginners!
Real Kiteboarding
www.realkiteboarding.com
Real is probably the largest kiteboarding-dedicated center in North America, located in Hatteras, North Carolina. Real teaches their camps and lessons in the warm, shallow water of Pamlico Sound that continues for miles, making it an ideal learning spot. A very hand-holding and service-focused school, Real is a great destination for spending at least a week and learning to kiteboard. Summer camp all over again!
Cozumel Kiteboarding
www.cozumelkiteboarding.com/
Adrienne at Cozumel Kiteboarding will not only be your daily guide and instructor, he’ll also serve you some of the best food on the island at his restaurant. With it’s turquoise blue Caribbean waters and white sandy beaches, Cozumel provides the ultimate learning environment for beginners. However, access is limited here, so having a guide or instructor is imperative. Adrienne and his staff provide full boat support and also offer guided kiteboarding trips.
