When most people think of Stinson Beach, they think of a mellow day of lounging on the sand and relaxing. However, Stinson Beach can also be a great place to windsurf. The surf often is a bit subdued because of the exposed reef to the north, so it's not quite as gnarly as many of the other beaches. And the more northerly the wind, the more side-shore the conditions. This can make for some fun down-the-line sailing. Stinson Beach is not the most consistent spot around, but when it happens it can be a real prized catch.

When it happens
Stinson Beach tends to be best in the early part of the season, from March through mid-May. When the storm tracks push across the north coast, Stinson usually will have a solid day or two of clearing winds. It's best when the wind has some northerly component to it. Although less consistent than the spring, summer can get good as well. Then the wind tends to be more onshore and a bit lighter. As well, it's more difficult to predict when it will happen in the summer. By the time fall rolls around, it's better to bring your surfboard to Stinson rather than your sailboard.

What are the conditions like?
During a spring clearing wind, sail sizes range from 4.0 to 5.0. The wind usually starts blowing around noon and lasts well into the evening. The surf is typically head high, but can frequently get much bigger (and more dangerous) when powerful low pressure systems move through the area. During the summer months the wind is lighter and sail sizes range from 4.5 to 6.0. The surf tends to be considerably smaller in the summer. A board with more flotation is recommended in the summer as there is less down-the-line wave riding that takes place because of the smaller surf and more onshore wind conditions.

How's the temperature?
Cold to very cold in the early spring. A full wetsuit is an absolute necessity and booties and a hood are highly recommended. Toward the end of spring the water does warm a bit, but a full wetsuit is still required. Even in the summer the water is typically very cold. Occasionally toward the end of summer the water can warm a bit, still most people choose to wear a full wetsuit. Stinson Beach is really not a place to come to if you're looking for warm water sailing.

Getting there
From 101 north: Head through Salinas to the Highway One/Stinson Beach exit. Follow HWY 1 (a.k.a Shoreline Highway) approximately 12 miles and you'll hit Stinson Beach. Park wherever you can grab a spot.