Indian Beach, Oregon (USA)
Indian Beach delivers consistent Pacific wind November through March. Cold water, rocky launch, and genuine chop—this spot rewards prepared intermediate riders.
- 11.9kts
- Average wind
- 99
- Windy days / year
- 13:00–16:00
- Peak wind hours
- S
- Primary direction
Location
- Nearest airports
- Airport - Seattle / Tacoma International, WA
- Coordinates
- 45.9295, -123.9784
Monthly wind profile (peak window)
Jan
44%
rideable
15.4 kts
Feb
51%
rideable
16.2 kts
Mar
45%
rideable
16.4 kts
Apr
22%
rideable
15 kts
May
15%
rideable
13.1 kts
Jun
10%
rideable
15 kts
Jul
2%
rideable
12.1 kts
Aug
6%
rideable
13.8 kts
Sep
10%
rideable
14.5 kts
Oct
27%
rideable
15.7 kts
Nov
38%
rideable
17.9 kts
Dec
56%
rideable
17.2 kts
Best wind directions
- S
- SSW
- ESE
- SW
- WSW
Water conditions
- Ocean
- Choppy
Best months
Hazards
- Strong currents and choppy ocean conditions require solid intermediate skills and awareness
- Rocks and rocky outcrops common along Oregon coast beaches
- Cold water temperature increases hypothermia risk; always wear proper protection
- Sudden wind shifts common in Pacific Northwest; stay alert to changing conditions
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
- Parking area near beach access
- Nearby cafes and restaurants in Cannon Beach town (short drive)
- Restroom facilities at beach entrance
- Local surf/water sports shops for gear repairs and rentals
Local tips
December through March offers the most consistent wind with 99 windy days annually. Check local beach conditions and tide reports before heading out, as rocky areas and rough surf vary with tidal cycles.
Launch & beach
Launch from sandy areas when accessible; choppy conditions mean broken water and waves, so expect turbulent conditions. South and southwest winds are most reliable for this spot.
Local etiquette
Share the beach with surfers and swimmers during peak times; launch and land away from populated swimming areas. Respect local beach regulations and any posted kiting zones.
What to wear
Wear a 4/3mm or 5/3mm wetsuit year-round due to cold Oregon ocean temps (45-55°F). Winter months require booties, gloves, and a hood for extended sessions.
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
The Experience
Indian Beach is a working spot. Show up prepared or frustrated. Water demands a 5/3 hood minimum. Wind is reliable but shifts without warning. You launch from whatever sand the tide exposes, navigate around rocks, and manage chop that separates actual intermediates from wishful thinking.
December through March, it works. Ninety-nine windy days yearly means you can plan a trip and actually ride. South and southwest winds are consistent. When systems align, you get 14-18 knot stretches that build through sessions.
Wind & Conditions
11.9 knots average masks the reality: peak season delivers sustained 14-18 knot windows. You're constantly reading, adjusting, staying aware. It's not relaxing—it's engaging.
Southwest, south, and southeast winds are reliable. ESE clips in occasionally. Best window: December through March. November is marginal. April onward gets sparse.
Water & Hazards
Oregon coast winter water runs 45-50°F. Strong currents run the coastline. Rocks scatter along the beach and crop up in the water, shifting with tide. Low tide gives more sand and working room. High tide compresses your launch zone.
This isn't a beginner spot. You need solid intermediate skills—broken water relaunch ability, wind reading, staying sharp when conditions shift. If you're still rebuilding pop on waves, go elsewhere.
Access
Canon Beach is minutes away. Real food, bathrooms, local gear shops exist. The beach itself is working coastline, not resort infrastructure.