Kitesurf at Sherman Island

Sherman Island is an island in the United States, located in California, about 1 hour east of San Francisco and 2 km north of Antioch.

The island is surrounded by the Sacramento River and the San Joaquin River.

It is a very popular spot in the area, which only works from May to September, when the thermal wind appears. The wind can pick up very quickly and very strong (up to 40 knots, so don’t hesitate to bring multiple kite sizes, including small ones).

The thermal wind is generally present in the morning and blows all day, sometimes even at night.

There are basically two types of kiters there:

those who come for the day and go back home in the evening

those who camp on site (there are no nearby hotels)

There are mainly 2 places to kite and take off:

in front of the park

and Little Baja, a little above.

It should be noted that the beach for takeoff is really small and very crowded. This spot is not recommended at all for beginners.

Once on the water, the water is very extensive and relatively flat (with a good chop when it’s blowing hard). It is suitable for freestyle and freeride. Several champions have already come here to train.

The recommended kite sizes are 9 and 7, with an 11 or 12 in addition for light wind. The spot is a paid park, about $5 for the day.

Also worth seeing in the area are the spots of Crissy Field and 3rd Avenue.

To get there from San Francisco: cross the Bay Bridge (i80) then head towards Walnut Creek, Concord, Antioch, then take the 160, Antioch Bridge and then left on W Sherman Island road until the park.