New Hampshire Kiteboarding

The Hampton Harbor is probably the most ridden spot in New Hampshire because it is the only beach that works in west winds. It works in NNW to SW winds. All winds with northern directions are more consistant than winds having south in it. In general, the "inlet" tends to be extremely gusty. Even on good days, 15mph differnces in wind are not uncommon. Parking is free all year round but you need to arrive early in the summer since the parking lot tends to fill up quickly. All tides work at the inlet. However, at high tide there is no beach to launch and land the kites. Then, the grass area in front of the beach can be used for launching and landing. There are multiple obstacles on the lawn. That is why high tide is for experts only. In general, the water is butter flat at low and mid tide because a sand bar in the middle of the harbor gets exposed. At high tide, you will find slightly choppy conditions.

There are multiple hazards that need to be considered. No beginners should be riding at the inlet. Only if you're perfectly comfortable going upwind, the inlet is a safe spot to kitesurf. During outgoing tide, the current is extremely strong. The water flows out into the ocean. There is a large bridge at the far end of the beach. No one should ever kite further than that point because if you drop your kite, you will get sucked under the bridge within seconds. Even at incoming tide, it is not recommended riding past the point because the winds at the inlet tend to be extremely gusty. In addition, there is lots of boat traffic in the summer months. Boats always have the right of way. Also, do not be in the way of fishermen.

For those who are experienced and can deal with gusty, constantly shifting winds, the inlet offers butter smooth flatwater in front of the sand bar and in the marsh. When looking at the forecast, the meter should be showing at least a consistent 18mph. Otherwise it is not worth going because the wind will drop too much in the lulls.