Rhode Island · United States
Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA)
16.5kts
SW · Wind season
281 windy days yearly in a protected pond where SW-W thermals build consistent afternoon wind. Flat water beats chop—ideal for learning when everywhere else is dead.
- 16.5kts
- Average wind
- 281
- Windy days / year
- 15:00–18:00
- Peak wind hours
- SW
- Primary direction
Location
- Nearest airports
- Airport - Providence, RI
- Coordinates
- 41.2001, -71.5751
Monthly wind profile (peak window)
Jan
89%
rideable
20.5 kts
Feb
88%
rideable
19.4 kts
Mar
87%
rideable
19.8 kts
Apr
80%
rideable
18.6 kts
May
73%
rideable
16.9 kts
Jun
70%
rideable
17.2 kts
Jul
55%
rideable
15.9 kts
Aug
61%
rideable
16.1 kts
Sep
60%
rideable
16.7 kts
Oct
81%
rideable
19.2 kts
Nov
93%
rideable
20.4 kts
Dec
87%
rideable
20.5 kts
Best wind directions
- SW
- WSW
- SSW
- WNW
- W
Water conditions
- Ocean
- Flat Water
Best months
Hazards
- Shallow pond water with muddy bottom creates visibility issues and entanglement risks
- Ferry traffic and recreational boat congestion, especially during peak season
- Sudden wind shifts common in New England can create gusty, unpredictable conditions
- Cold water temperatures, particularly October through April
What that means for you
- Watch for moored boats and marked channels
- Mind your fins and lines in standing-depth water
Amenities
- Beach access with parking areas near Great Salt Pond
- Local shops and restaurants in Block Island village
- Rental equipment available at nearby water sports facilities
- Restrooms and basic facilities at public beach areas
Local tips
Block Island experiences excellent wind consistency with 281 windy days annually. Plan trips around ferry schedules and check local wind forecasts, as New England sea breezes can shift rapidly.
Launch & beach
Launch from the flat water of Great Salt Pond where conditions are protected from ocean swell. SW to W winds dominate, making the pond's orientation ideal for consistent thermal and sea breeze patterns.
Local etiquette
Respect boat traffic in the pond and stay clear of ferry routes. Share water with swimmers and other water sports enthusiasts during summer months.
What to wear
Wear 4/3mm wetsuits October through May; 2/3mm or spring suits June through September. Water temperatures range from 35°F in winter to 70°F in summer.
What to pack
Kite sizes
- 14–17 mlight wind, under 14 kn
- 11–14 mtypical sessions, 14–22 kn
- 8–10 mstrong days, 20–28 kn
Boards
- Twintip — universal, bring one
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
Great Salt Pond is a working spot. You come here because wind works. The pond sits where SW-W thermals build predictably through afternoon, and you launch in flat water without ocean swell. Flat water means you progress skills instead of fighting chop. The tradeoff: you're in a pond, not the Atlantic, and the vibe changes accordingly.
Wind & Conditions
281 windy days annually keeps the forecast honest. SW to W wind dominates and aligns with the pond's orientation. Thermals build reliable afternoon sea breezes May through September. New England sea breeze isn't smooth—expect 5-8 knot gusts that arrive and vanish in seconds. Mornings are often light and fluky; afternoon is your window. Winter (Nov-Apr) runs colder and harder, but thermal patterns stay locked in.
Water & Hazards
Muddy bottom means poor visibility. Your board disappears if you go down, and mud holds things—entanglement is a real concern. Summer brings ferry and recreational boat traffic; they won't see your kite. Water runs mid-40s°F October through April, so hoods and booties are mandatory fall to spring. The pond is protected but still water—respect it and know your swim.
Who Rides Here
Beginners and intermediates thrive on flat water that forgives mistakes. Advanced riders use it as a reliable backup when everywhere else is blown out or flat. Consistency means you can book a trip and actually kite.
Logistics
Block Island village has restaurants, gear rentals, and ferry access. Parking near the pond. Public restrooms at beach areas. Summer tourist crowds; winter is quiet.
Launch Tips
Flat water at the pond edges where SW winds hit clean. Stay out of ferry channels. Sea breeze can shift and kill your session in 20 minutes—monitor conditions.
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