Nantucket Island / Coskata, Massachusetts (USA)

• Ocean
• Flat Water

• Strong currents and tidal flows around Coskata Point requiring awareness of water movement
• Shallow sandbars and changing bottom topography that can affect footing during launch/landing
• Cold Atlantic water temperatures increasing hypothermia risk, especially in winter months
• Boat traffic from commercial and recreational vessels in the surrounding waters

• Nantucket town services with restaurants, shops, and accommodations nearby
• Lifeguard presence during peak summer season
• Beach parking and facilities at Coskata area

Nantucket's 271 windy days annually make this highly consistent, but ferries and weekend crowds require early morning sessions for optimal conditions. Book accommodation early as the island fills quickly during peak wind season months.

Flat water conditions make this ideal for beginners, with easy beach launches from sandy areas. Favorable winds from WSW to WNW provide consistent conditions, though check tide schedules as shallow areas shift throughout the day.

Respect swimmer and paddler zones, especially during summer months when the beach is crowded. Yield to sailboats and maintain awareness of other water users in this popular island destination.

A 5/4mm or 4/3mm wetsuit is essential year-round due to cold Atlantic water (below 60°F most months). Winter months require 6/5mm protection or thicker; summer allows 3/2mm minimum.

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.

1. 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
2. 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
3. 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
4. 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
5. 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.