Gearhart, Oregon (USA)
Gearhart is a winter wind machine on the Oregon coast. Expect 95 windy days a year, cold water, strong currents, and serious shore break. This is intermediate-only territory.
- 11.5kts
- Average wind
- 95
- Windy days / year
- 13:00–16:00
- Peak wind hours
- SSW
- Primary direction
Location
- Nearest airports
- Airport - Seattle / Tacoma International, WA
- Coordinates
- 46.0310, -123.9295
Monthly wind profile (peak window)
Jan
34%
rideable
15.8 kts
Feb
37%
rideable
17.2 kts
Mar
45%
rideable
16.1 kts
Apr
25%
rideable
14.8 kts
May
16%
rideable
13.1 kts
Jun
15%
rideable
14.1 kts
Jul
6%
rideable
12.5 kts
Aug
8%
rideable
14.1 kts
Sep
12%
rideable
14.2 kts
Oct
27%
rideable
15.8 kts
Nov
32%
rideable
18.2 kts
Dec
55%
rideable
17.7 kts
Best wind directions
- SSW
- S
- SW
- NNW
- WSW
Water conditions
- Ocean
- Choppy
Best months
Hazards
- Choppy ocean conditions with strong shore breaks and currents typical of Oregon coast
- Cold water temperature year-round increases hypothermia risk
- Rocky outcrops and debris in the water require careful navigation
- Frequent fog and low visibility during winter peak season months
What that means for you
- Walk gear out — don't drag downwind across rocks
- Strong current — walk back upwind, don't body-drag down
Amenities
- Gearhart town facilities including restrooms and parking near beach access
- Local shops and restaurants in nearby Seaside (5 miles south)
- Seasonal accommodation options in the small coastal community
Local tips
Winter months (Nov-Mar) offer the most consistent winds but coldest conditions; check tide charts as shallow areas can complicate launches. The 95 windy days annually concentrate heavily in winter, making this a seasonal destination.
Launch & beach
Best launches occur during southerly to westerly wind directions on a rising tide. The beach setup is straightforward, though choppy conditions require secure anchoring and careful staging in variable swells.
Local etiquette
Respect local swimmers and surfers sharing the beach, particularly on weekends. Stay aware of other water users and maintain safe downwind clearance.
What to wear
A 4/3mm or 5/4mm winter wetsuit is essential year-round given Pacific Northwest water temperatures (45-52°F). Booties and gloves are highly recommended during peak winter season.
What to pack
Kite sizes
- 14–17 mlight wind, under 14 kn
- 11–14 mtypical sessions, 14–22 kn
Boards
- Twintip — universal, bring one
- Hydrofoil — light-wind spot, rideable from ~10 kn
What to wear (by climate)
- In the water
- 3/2 mm full wetsuit.
- On land
- Hoody and jacket; long pants in the evening.
Derived from the spot's latitude (temperate zone) and current season.
Right of way & manners
- 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
- 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
- 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
- 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
- 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.
Spot guide
Wind & Season
Nov–Mar. That's it. Gearhart stacks its 95 windy days in winter. SSW to SW flows push across the beach consistently during these months. Average 11.5 knots means you're running a quiver—no light-wind days here. Summer is dead.
Water
Cold year-round. Hypothermia is real, not hypothetical. Strong shore break and active currents demand constant positioning awareness. Fog in peak season cuts visibility fast. Low tide shallows out the launch zone. High tide is your working window.
What You're Getting Into
This isn't progression water. It's for intermediate kiters comfortable in cold, choppy conditions who can read tides and currents. Gearhart doesn't forgive sloppy technique. No scene, minimal crowds, functional beach access. Restrooms and parking are on-site. Seaside (5 miles south) has food and shops. Winter accommodation books fast.
Reality Check
Gearhart works if you want consistent winter wind and understand that the Pacific Northwest doesn't soften for anyone. You manage your own risk. You check tide charts. You're self-sufficient. If that's your style, the consistency is there.