Windsurfing, Kiting, and Winging on the Southern Oregon Coast
The best coastline in Oregon is an adventure haven for kiteboarders, wingers, and windsurfers. The combination of strong winds, diversity of spots, and raw beauty creates an unparalleled windsports playground for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport. The remoteness and ruggedness of the Southern Oregon Coast often keep these spots uncrowded, meaning you may need to bring your sense of adventure to play in the wind all by yourself.
One of the most enticing aspects of the Southern Oregon Coast is its year-round wind sports potential. Although the best months for consistent northerly wind are May to October, the winter southerly winds can often deliver wild and adventurous conditions. Whether you prefer a mellow flat water session at Floras Lake or the thrill of storm riding and big waves at Whiskey Run, the journey to this windy destination is always worth it. With one of the state’s top kite and wing schools, spectacular food, and cozy lodging, your experience will be unforgettable.
Pack up your gear and come discover all the Southern Oregon Coast has to offer.
Windsports on the Southern Oregon Coast
Whiskey Run Beach
Kiteboarding and Windsurfing
Just north of Bandon is Whiskey Run, a wide-open beach with consistent winds. Kitting the Oregon Coast can sometimes be intimidating, and Whiskey is arguably one of the best places for intermediate riders to get their first ocean sessions. The flat beach reduces the shore break, meaning the inside waves are often small, even if the outside sets are overhead. The length of the beach makes coming in downwind easy if staying upwind is hard for you.
But what makes Whiskey a must-kite destination is the ability to easily downwind. With hard-packed sand and an access road, it is not unusual to run into the local crew shuttling their cars from north to south so they can kite down the beach, hitting wave after wave. If you happen to come here with two beach-worthy cars, you can park one at the south end and drive yourself and your gear to the northernmost point. Rig up next to your car and set off downwind on a wave-slashing good time. Heads up, though, read the tide tables and pay close attention to where you park your car so it doesn’t get caught in a high tide. If you don’t want to drive on the beach, you can shuttle cars via Hwy 101 to the Coquille Lighthouse or Bullards Beach. Make sure to note the neon yellow beach access sign number where you park so you know when to exit the water.
Summer swell can vary significantly, with some days being fairly mellow, followed by spells of large and messy waves. Be sure to check the surf forecast before heading out so you don’t wind up in conditions beyond your skill level. There are numerous rip tides, so spend some time watching the ocean and looking for the telltale bubble line trickling out to sea. Even in the middle of summer, the water here can be quite cold, so a thick, warm 5/4mm wetsuit is recommended, although some cold-tolerant souls make it work in a 4/3mm. If your wetsuit has a hood, use it. You won’t regret it. Booties and gloves, in the summer, are a personal choice.
Where to Launch:
At Whiskey Run, you can launch wherever you see fit! If you aren’t driving down on the sand, the trek from the parking lot to the water is short, and you can rig up or downwind of the small river. It’s your choice. If you are downwinding, launch as far north as you like and ride down to the car you shuttled from on the south end of the beach.
Wind Direction
North or northwest wind is the primary direction for kiting in the summer. Avoid northeast conditions, as it will be blowing offshore. South wind is also kiteable, although it can often be accompanied by a storm. Southerly winds will be more prevalent in the winter.
Things to Watch Out For:
There aren’t many hazards at this beach. Watch for driftwood logs in the water or on the shore when launching and landing. Know that the wind can get a little shifty due to the small headlands and the sea stacks when you get to the most northern part of the beach. Be mindful of rip tides and undertows, which can be quite strong at times.
If you drive your car on the beach, make sure you read the tide tables and park it somewhere where it won’t get caught in rising water.
Forecasting:
Windy.com can give you a general sense of what will happen windwise on the Southern Oregon Coast. The iKitesurf pro version offers a written forecast in the summer that includes this area. Typically, if they say it will be windy at Floras Lake, it will be windy at Whiskey Run, maybe just a little lighter. Windsurf Oregon publishes a forecast for the Southern Oregon coast that can give you an idea of upcoming wind windows.
For the day of wind, Whiskey Run doesn’t have its own meter, so getting live readings isn’t possible. iKitesurf, the paid version, has an AI-generated wind sensor with moderate accuracy. Checking the wind reading on iKitesurf for Floras Lake can give you a general idea of what it might be doing up at Whiskey.
Floras Lake
Kiteboarding and Windsurfing
Without a doubt, Floras Lake is the most popular kiting destination on the Southern Oregon Coast. Nestled just over the dunes from the ocean, this freshwater lake offers much-coveted flat water conditions. While most end up here for the kiting, they stay for the friendly community that makes this spot feel like a grown-up summer camp.
Floras Lake is the perfect beginner spot. With the launch at the north end of the lake, those just learning to kite can build their confidence easily. Much of the top of the lake is waist-deep, so if you end up losing your board, try standing up and seeing if you can walk to it! However, shallow water also means you should be careful when jumping. Sending it big? Try jumping in the middle of the lake where the water is deeper. If you end up downwind, you can walk up the west side of the lake and try again. This spot is also home to Floras Lake Windsports School, which offers jet ski-assisted lessons to riders of all levels.
Post kite session, you can set up camp at Boice Cope campground (reservations are highly recommended in the summer!) or tuck into the Floras Lake House Bed and Breakfast. There are also many Airbnbs around the lake where you can make a home base for your windy adventures.
Where to Launch:
From the parking lot at the boat ramp of Boice Cope Park, walk over the bridge and out towards the ocean. You will soon pop out from the trees at the north end of the lake. You can rig anywhere along the top, although most people walk out to the corner where there is a bit more space.
Wind Direction:
The predominant wind direction for the lake is north or northwest. Sometimes, the wind spins northeast, making it gusty. Southerlies are kiteable on the lake, but they are onshore and can be gusty and unreliable.
Things to Watch Out For:
This is a very beginner-friendly spot. The top of the lake can be shallow, which makes it great for learning, but it can be dangerous if you are jumping big and crashing deep. If you are learning, watch how far you are going downwind, and be sure to come in where there is still a beach on the west side of the lake.
While it is possible to kite in the ocean in front of the lake, it is for expert-level kiters only. The shore pound can be very hard to get past, and the swell is often quite large. The wind is also stronger out in the ocean, so be sure to check your kite size before heading out.
Forecasting:
Since Floras Lake is such a popular kite spot, there are many forecasting options. A pro meter at the school provides current wind speeds and a forecast to iKsurf subscribers. If you are looking for a free forecast, check Windsurf Oregon. They publish a daily forecast for the Southern Oregon coast.
Paradise Point
Kiteboarding
The beauty of kiting on the Southern Oregon Coast is that you can go where the wind is. Sometimes, one spot will be windy when others aren’t, and Paradise Point just happens to be one of those spots. If Floras Lake is socked in and has variable light wind, driving south of Cape Blanco to this launch can often bring you sunshine and steady conditions.
If you have the right rig you can drive on to the beach, but mind the tides and the soft sand so you don’t get stuck. There can be significant shore pound here with big and messy waves, but other days, it looks like a lake. If it’s beyond your skill level the first time you visit, plan a trip another day. This isn’t necessarily a spot you would plan a whole trip around, but it can be a windy vacation savior when other spots are missing the mark.
The real bonus to this spot is that the dunes next to the shore can sometimes create an updraft so if you jump close in you can go much higher than anticipated.
Where to Launch:
Park on the bluff at Paradise Point State Park and walk down to the beach. You can launch anywhere along the wide, open beach—just mind hazards like driftwood. You can also drive down to this beach and rig next to your car, but be aware that the sand is often soft, and the tide can come up quickly.
Wind Direction:
Most of the kiting at Paradise Point is done on northerly winds, but it can be kited on a southerly just as well. Keep in mind that a southerly wind often accompanies a storm and can make for a more intense session, perfect for adventure seekers.
Things to Watch Out For:
There are very few hazards here other than driftwood on the beach. Depending on the direction, this spot can get very gusty. Be mindful of the shorepound. If you launch at low tide, as the tide rises, the waves on the shore can get bigger and more powerful. Like any ocean spot, watch for riptides and undertows. Stay well within your abilities and know how to self-rescue.
Forecasting:
There isn’t a meter at Paradise Point, so it can be a bit hard to forecast. The best bet you have is to look at conditions elsewhere to give you a gauge of what it’s doing. If it is socked in at Floras Lake but sunny in Port Orford, chances are you will have good conditions. If it is properly windy at Floras, it is often windy at Paradise. Don’t make this spot a destination, but check it out if conditions elsewhere are subpar. Check Windy.com for a general idea of what is going on.
The bottom line is that if you are not kiting and wish you were, it can’t hurt to make the drive.
Pistol River
Kiteboarding and Windsurfing
Pistol River has been a long-standing, well-known windy spot. It has been on the International Windsurfing Tour for many years because both the wind and the waves are often larger than life. If you want strong conditions, this is your spot. It is not uncommon for sustained winds of more than 25 knots, so this is a great place to practice your Big Air moves or bring your little kites.
Located south of Gold Beach, this is arguably one of the most scenic places you can kite on the whole Southern Oregon Coast. Huge sea stacks dot the northern end, while dunes roll through to the south. With more than three miles of beach and being relatively remote, you are almost guaranteed to have an uncrowded session.
The waves here are excellent, making it a very popular spot for surfboard kiters. Rig on the north end and downwind to the southern, hitting wave after wave. Three parking lots down the beach make it easy to shuttle cars for just such an adventure.
Depending on the tides and the river flow, there is sometimes a flatwater lagoon in the mouth of the Pistol River, making it a popular spot for freestylers. It can be shallow, so proceed with caution! If you are looking for varied conditions and some strong winds, this is your spot.
Where to Launch:
There are three spots to launch. The northmost parking lot is where you will find windsurfers on windy days. Make sure to kite downwind of them if you launch here. As you drive south, you can park just north of the bridge to rig and kite the lagoon, but make sure you feel confident about water depth and the tides before launching here. Lastly, the southern parking lot has a hike over the dunes to the beach, but it will likely be the most deserted for your epic solo session. Downwinding from one parking lot to the next can give you the proper waveslashing session you were looking for.
Wind Direction:
This spot is predominantly kited on northerly winds. Before heading out, make sure it is side-shore or side-on and not side-off shore. Not only are side-offshore winds gusty, but they are generally a bad idea as you will get blown out to sea if anything happens.
Things to Watch Out For:
The wind at the far northern end of the beach, near the sea stacks, can get very swirly. The further you head to the south, the cleaner the wind will be. Watch out for driftwood on shore and in the water. As with any ocean spot, mind the riptides and undertows. Be confident with your self rescue and kite well within your abilities.
If you plan on kiting the river mouth, pay close attention to the depth. On low tide, it can be very shallow. Also, there can be a strong current that is tide-dependent, which can make getting your board back a challenge.
Forecasting:
As with many spots on the Southern Oregon Coast, there is no wind meter at Pistol River. However, the iKsurf pro forecast always includes what it might be doing at Pistol, as this is such a popular spot. Checking Windy.com can give you a good idea of what the wind might be up to. You should kite this spot during the day as it tends to die down around sunset. In the summer, Victor the Inflictor, a Columbia Gorge windsurfer and forecaster, includes Pistol River in his forecasts.
Don’t be discouraged if you make the journey to Pistol and don’t get wind. It happens often, and this spot definitely has a learning curve to knowing when it will be good.
Winging the Southern Oregon Coast
Winging
Winging is the newest windsport, coming on the scene in 2019. Often, wingers look like butterflies, propelled across the water by the inflatable wings they hold while riding high on a hydrofoil board. Windsurfers and kiters have all embraced winging for its fun, flowy feel. The perceived ease of learning this sport has made it popular with newcomers.
The Southern Oregon Coast’s wind makes it a winger’s paradise. However, due to the waves and varied conditions, you must be an expert winger to get out safely. In theory, everywhere you can kite on the Southern Oregon Coast you could also wing. And, there are places yet to be explored where it isn’t possible to kite but might be perfect to wing. Bring your sense of adventure, and you might find the perfect place to wing all by yourself.
Hands down, the best place to wing on the Southern Oregon Coast is at Floras Lake. You will find yourself in good company with local and visiting wingers alike enjoying this beautiful spot. You will share the water with kiters and windsurfers, but it rarely gets too crowded. It is windy here from April to October, with the summer being the windiest months.
Where to Launch:
Park at the Boice Cope Park boat launch and walk south on the path that skirts the lake. You will pop out of the forest to a lightly treed grassy area where all the wingers rig their gear. Pump up your wing, grab your foil, and wade into the water till it is deep enough to hop your board.
Wind Direction:
Floras Lake is best on north or northwest winds. If the wind spins too much to the east, it can get pretty gusty and make getting back to the east side of the lake where you rigged a challenge.
Things to Watch Out For:
This is a perfect spot to wing if you are a beginner, especially since you can always walk up the west side of the lake if you end up downwind. The top of the lake is quite shallow, so stick to the middle to ensure you don’t hit the sand with your foil. There are often weeds at the top and west sides of the lake, so pay attention.
It is not recommended to wing in the ocean in front of the lake.
Forecasting:
Given the popularity of Floras Lake for windsports, there are many options for checking on the wind. The Floras Lake Windsports School has an iKsurf meter mounted on the roof, so you can get up to date wind readings if you subscribe to the app. For a free option, Windsurf Oregon publishes a daily forecast for the Southern Oregon Coast.
Resources
Floras Lake Windsports– Since 1990 the Brady family has been teaching windsports at Floras Lake. While back in the day it used to be just windsurfing, they have since added kiting, winging, and foiling to the list of sports they teach. The school is generally open from April through October, with the busy months being June, July, and August. This is one of the best places in Oregon to learn windsports, hands down. Call ahead or book online to secure your spot!
Michaela Pilkenton, Kiteboarding Progression Coach– Michaela learned to kite at Floras Lake and considers the Southern Oregon Coast her home for kiting. While she is based out of Hood River, she frequently travels around Oregon to teach progression lessons. If you are already a kiter, and want someone to show you the amazing places the Southern Oregon Coast has to offer, or you are ready to progress to the next level, reach out to her!
Whiskey Run
If you are keen to camp, the closest place to stay near Whiskey Run is Bullards Beach State Park. They have both campsites and yurts available. This large campground also has bathroom facilities, including showers to get the sand off your feet. If you drive a little further south to Bandon you will find many lodging options including the Inn at Face Rock and the Table Rock Motel with stunning ocean views. Visit their lodging page for more options in Bandon.
Floras Lake
Located in the town of Langlois, Floras Lake has some excellent lodging options. Most wind enthusiasts opt to stay in the Boice Cope Campground. This well cared for campground features lakefront campsites, RV pads with electricity, and a large lawn where you can pitch a tent with friends. For those who prefer indoor accommodations, the Floras Lake House Bed and Breakfast has four beautifully appointed rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The breakfast here is legendary and sure to fuel you up for a fun day on the water. Vacation rentals, a tree house, and an RV park can all be found in our lodging guide.
Paradise Point
Paradise Point is located in Port Orford, one of the oldest and smallest townsites in the state. Just south of town is Humbug Mountain State Park, where you can camp nestled in the trees and along Brush Creek. You can reserve either an RV or a tent site for your stay here. There are several lodging options in town, including the indulgent Wildspring Guest Habitat, where you have your own cabin in the woods. Explore more lodging options here.
Pistol River
On your way to Pistol River you will pass through Gold Beach, a coastal town tucked between the Rogue River and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors here have their pick of lodging options including everything from classic Highway 101 motels to cozy vacation rentals. Check out the Gold Beach Inn if you are looking for a room with a view. If you are willing to drive up the Rogue River, and are looking for a treat, consider staying at the Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge. Here you will find lush accommodations and some of the best dining around. Need more options? Check out our lodging guide.
While there are many excellent places to eat along the Southern Oregon Coast, playing in the wind and water can really build up an appetite, so here is our list of places to tuck into post session:
- Wilson’s Market, Bandon- This little unassuming market has the most delicious deli. Their burritos are massive and are exactly what you want after a cold Oregon coast kite or wing session.
- Face Rock Creamery, Bandon- Typically you might not consider a cheese shop as a place to eat, but the Face Rock Creamery has a menu that is sure to impress. Featuring paninis, burgers, and pizza the food here will fill you up fast.
- Bandon Bait, Bandon- There are several places to get fish and chips in Bandon, but Bandon Bait is often the fastest. Located on the boardwalk, this is a perfect place to stop on a sunny day to warm up and refuel.
- Langlois Market, Langlois- Driving south to Floras Lake you will pass the Langlois Market in Langlois. This is a great spot to pick up last minute food for camping. They also have an incredible deli with huge sandwiches and self proclaimed world famous hot dogs.
- Salty Dawg, Port Orford- One of the benefits of the Salty Dawg is they are open late, which can be a lifesaver if you have stayed out in the wind past sunset. With burgers, pizza, and sandwiches, you will for sure find something that will fill your belly.
- Porthole Cafe and Taphouse, Gold Beach- With stunning ocean views, the Porthole Cafe and Taphouse is a great spot to stop for some food on your way to or from Pistol River. Expect large home-cooked portions and a good beer selection.
- Casita De Oro, Gold Beach- If you are looking for outstanding Mexican food or just a really big plate of food to fill you up fast, Casita De Oro is it. Large portions, excellent flavors, fast service — everything you need after a long day on the water.
- Gold Beach BBQ, Gold Beach- Pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. What more could you ask for? Before or after a session at Pistol River Gold Beach BBQ is the perfect spot to refuel.
While it is often windy on the Southern Oregon Coast, there are days when there is no wind. When that is the case, or if you are traveling with friends and family who don’t participate in windsports, here are some activities in the area you might consider:
- Mountain Biking– Whiskey Run Trails, just north of Bandon, offers world-class mountain biking for every skill level. Over 32 miles of single track await you, with everything from double black diamonds to family-friendly trails.
- Paddling– The Southern Oregon Coast offers many options for a day of paddling. Break out your SUP or kayak and explore some of the amazing waterways on this part of the coast. Floras Lake Windsports offers rentals if you want to explore parts of the lake you wouldn’t see via wind-propelled activities.
- Jerry’s Rogue Jets– Voted one of Tripadvisor’s best 100 things to do in Oregon, hopping on a jet boat for a scenic ride up the Rouge River is a must-do on a non-windy day. Choose your own adventure from the ‘Historic Mail Boat Route’ to a six-hour excursion into the Rogue Wilderness. This is sure to give lasting memories for the whole family.
- Hiking– From Reedsport to Brookings, the Southern Oregon Coast is a hiker’s heaven. From short, accessible walks that lead to breathtaking views along the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor to the 5.5-mile hike up to the 1,765-foot summit of Humbug Mountain, one of the Oregon coast’s highest headlands, there is something for everyone.
- Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor– Located between Pistol River and Brookings, plan a visit to one of the most scenic portions of the entire Oregon Coast. Your only regret from spending a non-windy day on this 12-mile section of Highway 101 will be that you didn’t plan your whole trip around exploring this incredible part of the coastline.
- Elk River– About 7.5 miles up Elk River Road is the starting point for endless adventure on this nationally designated Wild and Scenic River. Pullouts along the road lead to clear blue swimming holes, shorelines to fish along, and even some rugged first come, first serve campgrounds. Bring your sense of adventure, and don’t miss this beautiful recreation area on your next non-windy day. You are likely to have one of the most stunning swimming holes you’ve ever seen all to yourself.
- South Coast Tours– Looking for some easy fun on your next no-wind day? Sign up for a tour with South Coast Tours. There is something to be said about booking a pre-planned tour. Guides will bring you to places you wouldn’t otherwise visit, and their knowledge about the area can open doors to new experiences. They can take you on kayak tours, downhill mountain biking, surfing, SCUBA diving, snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and even wildlife viewing.
- Fat Tire Biking– Mix things up and rent a fat tire e-bike from Adventure Gold Beach. With boundless miles of uncrowded coastline to explore, this is a fun and unique way to explore as much as possible, without working up too much off a sweat from pedaling.
- Lighthouses– From the oldest standing lighthouse in Oregon at Cape Blanco State Park to a tour up the Umpqua River Lighthouse to see the Fresnel lens constructed from 616 glass prisms, the Southern Oregon Coast is on every lighthouse lover’s bucket list, and it should be on your non-wind day to-do list too.
- Art Galleries– With enough art galleries on the Southern Oregon Coast to plan an entire trip around, you don’t need to go far to see incredible art. If you feel inspired and want to get involved, Washed Ashore offers volunteer opportunities to clean up the beaches we recreate on and support the art community all in one.
Research and content by Kimmy Gustafson + Michaela Pilkenton
Featured Activities
South Coast
Floras Lake Waterfall Trail
Floras Lake Beach, close to Langlois, showcases imposing cliffs and eroded sandstone rock formations, establishing itself as one of the most intriguing coastal spots on this stretch of the Pacific. Towards the southern tip of Floras Lake Beach, adjacent to...
Langlois, ORSouth Coast
Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint
Pistol River State Park is set in the dunes of the southern Oregon coast. The river supposedly got its name when a militia soldier lost his pistol in the river during the infamous Rogue River Indian War. In March of...
Gold Beach, OR541-469-2021
South Coast
Floras Lake Windsports
Floras Lake is located on the southern Oregon coast, 17 miles south of Bandon. Kiteboarders and windsurfers have been coming to this sandy-bottom, fresh water lake for years to take advantage of its steady northwest winds that average 15-25 knots...
92850 Boice Cope LnLanglois, OR
541-236-5046
Email us (floraslakekiting[at]gmail[dot]com)
