Sherman Island, California: Kiteboarding Guide

Mar 21, 2012

Author: SBC Kiteboard magazine

Rio Vista, like the Gorge, enjoys reliable thermal winds in the summer time. With on-site camping accommodations, Sherman Island is a favorite kiteboarding destination for California kiteboarders. Newbies can take lessons from a variety of schools and learn how community-oriented, fun and migratory kiteboarders can be. Sherman also appeals to advanced riders and pros with its buttery-smooth flatwater and steady winds. That it blows almost every day doesn’t hurt. 

Best Winds:  April to September
Closest Airport: 
Typical Kite Size: 8-10m
Cost Factor: $
Local Shops and Schools: See full list at end of article
Family Friendly:  not so much
Naish Camp & Demo:  August 9-12, 2012

Local knowledge:
• If you’ve never ridden here, ask a local how to navigate the straight onshore winds and blackberry bushes, which make this a very advanced launch.
• Bring a cooler full of food and drinks; it’s at least 20 minutes to the nearest store.
• The launch area is small, so be tidy; move your gear out of the way when it’s not in use.
• Make the 20-minute drive to In & Out for a mean animal-style double-double, fries and shake. If you ask, you can get a four-by-four (four patties plus four slices of cheese).
• Bring $10 for camping, $5 for daily parking.
• Stay 200-plus feet away from shore.

(Warning: without the assistance of a school, this is an expert-only launch)

Local shop:
Delta Windsurf Company, (916) 777-2299, deltawindsurf.com

Schools:
Ki’topia, (209)480-2067, kitopia.biz
Edge Kiteboarding School, (775) 721-1132 , edgekiteboarding.com
Sheldon Kiteboarding, (707) 374-3053, sheldonkiteboarding.com
Launch Kiteboarding, (530) 318-5474, launchkiteboarding.com

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