KITEBOARDING IN SQUAMISH
Imagine feeling the wind pull you across wide open ocean with all the speed of wakeboarding and all the freedom of paragliding.
- Weather
- Kiteschool Cost Comparison
- IKO Instructional Levels
- Where to Stay in Squamish
- How to Get Here
- Kiteboarding Zones in Squamish Spit
Squamish Wind Forecasts
On some days forecasting the wind in Squamish is easy. Other days it can be challenging due to the variable conditions. There are several great resources which can help you to make a better prediction but some resources can be misleading and very inaccurate so ensure you check a few different ones before packing your car!
Current Wind
Click on the links below to check real time conditions:
Squamish Split Sensor – Active May 15 – Sept 15
Squamish Terminal Sensor – Active all year but not 100% accurate
Pam Rocks Conditions – Lets you see when the wind switches to inflow
Ikitesurf Squamish – Paid app, but very useful
*The Squamish Terminal Sensor & the iKitesurf Sensor sit further downwind of the spit. As a result there maybe a few more knots on the spit than shown on the sensor
During the summer months the temperature gradient graph should be your first stop. This can give you a great indicator of wind. If the figures you’re seeing on the gradient graph dont look too favourable, your next stop should be to check the Howe Sound Marine Forecast. This is a system ran by Environment Canada. This is a great forecasting site and usually very accurate. On iKitseurf look at the current graph & use ‘quick look’ grey wind direction arrows to help predict the approximate time of the switch from outflow to inflow. Just above a grey line appears on the graph that one can use to help understand the potential increase or decrease in wind strength throughout the day. But the wind speed predicted is never accurate.
In early or late season, the temperature gradient should not take as much precedent, more attention should be given to the Howe Sound Marine Forecast & iKitesurf. This is where the less predictable micro climate effects come into play.
If you are unsure about any of this, please dont hesitate to contact us at info@squamishwatersports.com or phone: 778-989-5483
Other useful links:
Big Wave Dave – This site gives a good summary for rare spots, however its not always reliable
Weather Talk BC – This site has a great deal of forecast information and all kinds of useful information as long as people talking on the forum about where they are going and when.
RASP Canada – This site gives a good model of the conditions in the area to help visualize.
Squamish Tide Times
Howe Sound Marine Forecast
Temperature Gradient
Level 1
Discovery
A
1. Know safe wind directions and conditions for kiting.
2. Know hazards on a spot.
3. Set up Trainer kite.
4. Know the use of safety systems.
B
1. Have basic flying skills with trainer kite.
2. Launch and land the trainer kite with an assistant.
3. Twist and untwist the likes while flying the kite.
4. Walk and change directions while flying the kite.
5. Know the wind window.
C
1. Set-up 4/5 line kite with a full de-power system.
2. Pre-flight check equipment and settings.
3. In-flight check equipment and settings.
4. Pull quick release and active kite leash.
5. Understand and use the international communication signals.
6. Launch and land the kite to an assistant and as an assistant- 4/5-line de-power kite.
D
1. Control the kite hooked into the harness.
2. Understand the de-power system and can use the safety system (with 2 and 1 hand).
3. Advanced flying skills and the de-power kite.
4. Show full control of de-power systems in flight.
E
1.Self-land.
2. Recover the bar and kite.
Level 2
Intermediate
F
1.Enter and exit the water independently and safely while controlling the kite.
2. Water re-launch the kite.
3.Body drag downwind.
4.Maintain correct kite position in the wind window.
5.Change Direction to the left and right while body dragging.
6.Self-rescue and full pack-down in deep water.
G
1. Upwind body drag to recover board.
2.Upwind body drag holding the board with one hand.
3.Enter and exit at the same point while upwind body dragging.
H
1. Know the power stroke for a water start .
2.Know the safety rules and theory for water start.
3.Can put the board on the feet and maintain the correct position for water start.
I
– Water start in both directions and ride a short distance.
– Come to a controlled stop.
– Understand weather forcast, tidal- and wind effects.
– Determine the wind strength, direction, and quality.
– Know the right of way rules.
– Know equipment set up and choice according to the weather conditions.
Level 3
Independent
J
– Control the riding speed by edging.
– Toeside edging.
K
– Consistent riding in all directions including upwind.
– Ride amongst other riders and water users and respect the right of way rules.
L
– Change of direction without stopping .
– Make a toe side turn.
M
– Risk assessment and awareness of the riding area.
– Self Launch.
N
– Know the theory and the safety rules for jumping.
– Land a basic jump.
Level 4
Independent
1
– Basic Jump
2
– Jibe
3
– Jump with Grab
4
– Rider Recovery
5
– Board Recovery
6
– International Kiteboarding Signs and ROW
7
– Equipment
9
– Weather and Tides
9
– Aerodynamics
Squamish offers several options of accommodations, with prices ranging from $29 per night
up to $$$.
It is busy here all year around. During the shoulder seasons (March/April and
September/October) it is usually a little more quiet and accommodation should be easy
enough to find.
During peak season though, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance!
We offer on site accommodation through Airbnb. Just follow the link for more details.
Hostels
The best value for money option is the Squamish Adventure Inn.
https://www.squamishhostel.com/
Offering Dorms, Private and Hotel-Style rooms, there is an affordable option for most people.
With a big, shared kitchen, TV room, lounge with fireplace and surprisingly clean amenities
this is a great low budget option.
Camping
With most campgrounds open all year around, there are several options to choose from.
Klahanie Campground offers spaces for Tents and RVs from $35 per night.
https://klahaniecampground.com/
Motel
The August Jack Motor Inn is located just three blocks away from our shop. Placed between 2
parks it has breathtaking views of mountains and waterfalls. https://www.augustjack.com/
Single and double rooms are available for under $100.
Hotels
The Sea to Sky hotel is located in Garibaldi Village Mall, 6.4 km from downtown Squamish
and minutes from the Garibaldi Highlands. https://seatoskyhotel.business.site/
The hotel features a hot tub, free WiFi, also an exercise room with a sauna and hot tub are
available for guest use. A liquor store is located on-site.
Double rooms are available at around $150 per night.
Only a block away from the shop you can find the Howe Sound Inn.
https://www.howesound.com/
Pet friendly and with a restaurant and brewery on site this is a great option as well.
Airbnb
Of course there is various options for Airbnb ranging from $50 to $$$$
Check out the following link to find the right option for you.
https://www.airbnb.ca/s/Squamish–Canada
From Vancouver City Centre
There are numerous Greyhound buses which depart from Downtown Vancouver to Squamish. There are two Squamish stops, we are within walking distance from the downtown stop but a short taxi ride from the Greyhound depot in Garibaldi highlands. Contact Greyhound for scheduling:
The Greyhound station is located at:
Address: 1150 Station St, Vancouver, BC V6A 4C7
Phone: (604) 683-8133
Province: British Columbia
Please go to the Greyhound website for up to date schedules.
From Whistler
There are numerous Greyhound buses which depart from Whistler Village to Squamish. There are two Squamish stops, we are within walking distance from the downtown stop but a short taxi ride from the Greyhound depot in Garibaldi highlands. Contact Greyhound for scheduling:
The Greyhound station is located at:
Address: 4230 Gate Way Dr, Whistler, BC V0N 1B4
Phone: (604) 932-5031
Province: British Columbia
Please go to the Greyhound website for up to date schedules.
From Vancouver International Airport
There is a direct bus service from Vancouver Intl. Airport to Squamish. This bus service is located at the International Arrivals Terminal, Arrivals Level. Whistler Bus Bay #10. Departure location is located directly outside the terminal, close to our ticket counter.
Please reserve online this service prior to travel
Kiteboarding Zones in Squamish Spit
THE SPIT
The Spit is the main launching and landing zone for kiteboarding in Squamish. The wind blows offshore so it is important that you are able to ride upwind, retrieve your board if you lose it and do a self rescue in the water before you choose to ride here alone. The Spit has a day use fee or annual fee to use as well as a rescue service that is operational from May 15th to September 15th annually.
NEXEN BEACH
KITE SHOP
Squamish Watersports/Aerial Kiteboarding is the only kite shop in Squamish. We have a full service kite school and shop providing rentals, repairs, lessons and all gear sales. We also have hot showers and a hot tub for use after your time spent in the cold Howe Sound waters.
If you have any other questions about kiteboarding in Squamish, please feel free to give us a call at 778 989 5483, we are always happy to help!”
- Weather
- Kiteschool Cost Comparison
- IKO Instructional Levels
- Where to Stay in Squamish
- How to Get Here
- Kiteboarding Zones in Squamish Spit
Squamish Wind Forecasts
On some days forecasting the wind in Squamish is easy. Other days it can be challenging due to the variable conditions. There are several great resources which can help you to make a better prediction but some resources can be misleading and very inaccurate so ensure you check a few different ones before packing your car!
Current Wind
Click on the links below to check real time conditions:
Squamish Split Sensor – Active May 15 – Sept 15
Squamish Terminal Sensor – Active all year but not 100% accurate
Pam Rocks Conditions – Lets you see when the wind switches to inflow
Ikitesurf Squamish – Paid app, but very useful
*The Squamish Terminal Sensor & the iKitesurf Sensor sit further downwind of the spit. As a result there maybe a few more knots on the spit than shown on the sensor
During the summer months the temperature gradient graph should be your first stop. This can give you a great indicator of wind. If the figures you’re seeing on the gradient graph dont look too favourable, your next stop should be to check the Howe Sound Marine Forecast. This is a system ran by Environment Canada. This is a great forecasting site and usually very accurate. On iKitseurf look at the current graph & use ‘quick look’ grey wind direction arrows to help predict the approximate time of the switch from outflow to inflow. Just above a grey line appears on the graph that one can use to help understand the potential increase or decrease in wind strength throughout the day. But the wind speed predicted is never accurate.
In early or late season, the temperature gradient should not take as much precedent, more attention should be given to the Howe Sound Marine Forecast & iKitesurf. This is where the less predictable micro climate effects come into play.
If you are unsure about any of this, please dont hesitate to contact us at info@squamishwatersports.com or phone: 778-989-5483
Other useful links:
Big Wave Dave – This site gives a good summary for rare spots, however its not always reliable
Weather Talk BC – This site has a great deal of forecast information and all kinds of useful information as long as people talking on the forum about where they are going and when.
RASP Canada – This site gives a good model of the conditions in the area to help visualize.
Squamish Tide Times
Howe Sound Marine Forecast
Temperature Gradient
Level 1
Discovery
A
1. Know safe wind directions and conditions for kiting.
2. Know hazards on a spot.
3. Set up Trainer kite.
4. Know the use of safety systems.
B
1. Have basic flying skills with trainer kite.
2. Launch and land the trainer kite with an assistant.
3. Twist and untwist the likes while flying the kite.
4. Walk and change directions while flying the kite.
5. Know the wind window.
C
1. Set-up 4/5 line kite with a full de-power system.
2. Pre-flight check equipment and settings.
3. In-flight check equipment and settings.
4. Pull quick release and active kite leash.
5. Understand and use the international communication signals.
6. Launch and land the kite to an assistant and as an assistant- 4/5-line de-power kite.
D
1. Control the kite hooked into the harness.
2. Understand the de-power system and can use the safety system (with 2 and 1 hand).
3. Advanced flying skills and the de-power kite.
4. Show full control of de-power systems in flight.
E
1.Self-land.
2. Recover the bar and kite.
Level 2
Intermediate
F
1.Enter and exit the water independently and safely while controlling the kite.
2. Water re-launch the kite.
3.Body drag downwind.
4.Maintain correct kite position in the wind window.
5.Change Direction to the left and right while body dragging.
6.Self-rescue and full pack-down in deep water.
G
1. Upwind body drag to recover board.
2.Upwind body drag holding the board with one hand.
3.Enter and exit at the same point while upwind body dragging.
H
1. Know the power stroke for a water start .
2.Know the safety rules and theory for water start.
3.Can put the board on the feet and maintain the correct position for water start.
I
– Water start in both directions and ride a short distance.
– Come to a controlled stop.
– Understand weather forcast, tidal- and wind effects.
– Determine the wind strength, direction, and quality.
– Know the right of way rules.
– Know equipment set up and choice according to the weather conditions.
Level 3
Independent
J
– Control the riding speed by edging.
– Toeside edging.
K
– Consistent riding in all directions including upwind.
– Ride amongst other riders and water users and respect the right of way rules.
L
– Change of direction without stopping .
– Make a toe side turn.
M
– Risk assessment and awareness of the riding area.
– Self Launch.
N
– Know the theory and the safety rules for jumping.
– Land a basic jump.
Level 4
Independent
1
– Basic Jump
2
– Jibe
3
– Jump with Grab
4
– Rider Recovery
5
– Board Recovery
6
– International Kiteboarding Signs and ROW
7
– Equipment
9
– Weather and Tides
9
– Aerodynamics
Squamish offers several options of accommodations, with prices ranging from $29 per night
up to $$$.
It is busy here all year around. During the shoulder seasons (March/April and
September/October) it is usually a little more quiet and accommodation should be easy
enough to find.
During peak season though, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance!
We offer on site accommodation through Airbnb. Just follow the link for more details.
Hostels
The best value for money option is the Squamish Adventure Inn.
https://www.squamishhostel.com/
Offering Dorms, Private and Hotel-Style rooms, there is an affordable option for most people.
With a big, shared kitchen, TV room, lounge with fireplace and surprisingly clean amenities
this is a great low budget option.
Camping
With most campgrounds open all year around, there are several options to choose from.
Klahanie Campground offers spaces for Tents and RVs from $35 per night.
https://klahaniecampground.com/
Motel
The August Jack Motor Inn is located just three blocks away from our shop. Placed between 2
parks it has breathtaking views of mountains and waterfalls. https://www.augustjack.com/
Single and double rooms are available for under $100.
Hotels
The Sea to Sky hotel is located in Garibaldi Village Mall, 6.4 km from downtown Squamish
and minutes from the Garibaldi Highlands. https://seatoskyhotel.business.site/
The hotel features a hot tub, free WiFi, also an exercise room with a sauna and hot tub are
available for guest use. A liquor store is located on-site.
Double rooms are available at around $150 per night.
Only a block away from the shop you can find the Howe Sound Inn.
https://www.howesound.com/
Pet friendly and with a restaurant and brewery on site this is a great option as well.
Airbnb
Of course there is various options for Airbnb ranging from $50 to $$$$
Check out the following link to find the right option for you.
https://www.airbnb.ca/s/Squamish–Canada
From Vancouver City Centre
There are numerous Greyhound buses which depart from Downtown Vancouver to Squamish. There are two Squamish stops, we are within walking distance from the downtown stop but a short taxi ride from the Greyhound depot in Garibaldi highlands. Contact Greyhound for scheduling:
The Greyhound station is located at:
Address: 1150 Station St, Vancouver, BC V6A 4C7
Phone: (604) 683-8133
Province: British Columbia
Please go to the Greyhound website for up to date schedules.
From Whistler
There are numerous Greyhound buses which depart from Whistler Village to Squamish. There are two Squamish stops, we are within walking distance from the downtown stop but a short taxi ride from the Greyhound depot in Garibaldi highlands. Contact Greyhound for scheduling:
The Greyhound station is located at:
Address: 4230 Gate Way Dr, Whistler, BC V0N 1B4
Phone: (604) 932-5031
Province: British Columbia
Please go to the Greyhound website for up to date schedules.
From Vancouver International Airport
There is a direct bus service from Vancouver Intl. Airport to Squamish. This bus service is located at the International Arrivals Terminal, Arrivals Level. Whistler Bus Bay #10. Departure location is located directly outside the terminal, close to our ticket counter.
Please reserve online this service prior to travel
Kiteboarding Zones in Squamish Spit
THE SPIT
The Spit is the main launching and landing zone for kiteboarding in Squamish. The wind blows offshore so it is important that you are able to ride upwind, retrieve your board if you lose it and do a self rescue in the water before you choose to ride here alone. The Spit has a day use fee or annual fee to use as well as a rescue service that is operational from May 15th to September 15th annually.
NEXEN BEACH
KITE SHOP
Squamish Watersports/Aerial Kiteboarding is the only kite shop in Squamish. We have a full service kite school and shop providing rentals, repairs, lessons and all gear sales. We also have hot showers and a hot tub for use after your time spent in the cold Howe Sound waters.
If you have any other questions about kiteboarding in Squamish, please feel free to give us a call at 778 989 5483, we are always happy to help!”
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