Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is a kiteboarding spot near San Francisco in USA, with open ocean conditions and prevailing SW, W, NW wind, best ridden in March, April, May, June, July, August, September.
| Country | USA |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Nearest town | San Francisco |
| Water type | Open ocean |
| Launch | Ocean |
| Best wind direction | SW, W, NW |
| Wind type | Thermal, Frontal |
| Best months | March, April, May, June, July, August, September |
| Coordinates | 37.7703, -122.5121 |
About Ocean Beach
There is plenty of room on the water. Given its challenging conditions you won't find beginners here on big days. However small days are great for aspiring waveriders and intermediate Bay riders wishing to acquaint themselves with the ocean. In either case, if this is your first time sailing in the ocean, consider a lesson as OB has taken the expert inland but neophyte ocean sailor to the great kitesurfing beyond. Riding close to shore might have your board and fins stumbling on hidden sandbars. Nearshore-riding can also increase one's chances of being surprised with sudden large waves that break on those sandbars. Although currents and rip are a big factor, they can be negotiated with skill and conditioning. Many OB riders prefer to stay on the inside and ride the foam. Energy is much lower in this 20-30 yard wide zone and you mitigate those wave-induced existential moments. If you venture into the break zone however, be aware that if you go down, the waves can pin you to the bottom. Especially when they are overhead (most of the time), this is not a place for intermediates much less beginners. Even during it's mellower moments, the OB wave is thick and more destructive. Be a strong swimmer and be prepared to hold your breath for at least 30 seconds while you are being rag-dolled across the bottom.
When is the best time to kitesurf at Ocean Beach?
The best time to kite Ocean Beach is March, April, May, June, July, August, September, when the SW, W, NW wind is most reliable.
What are the wind and water conditions?
Ocean Beach offers open ocean conditions with SW, W, NW wind (Thermal, Frontal wind), launching from ocean.
How do I get to Ocean Beach?
North Ocean Beach is very accessible from the city being only a 20 minute drive from downtown. Parking is plenty and several public transportation routes terminate at the beach, especially at Judah and Fulton.
Hazards at Ocean Beach
Currents.
View Ocean Beach on the interactive map →Other kite spots near Ocean Beach
Spot data last updated 2026-07-20 · part of the KiteGlobe database of 6,633 kiteboarding spots.