When is the best time to kite at Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA)?

The best months at Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA) are Nov, Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec, Oct, Apr, May, Jun, Aug, Sep, Jul.

What level is Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA) suitable for?

Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA) is rated Beginner for kiters.

What is the water like at Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA)?

Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA) has Ocean, Flat Water conditions.

Kite spot

Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA)

Name: Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA)
Address: Rhode Island, United States

Rhode Island, United States

Beginner Ocean Flat Water Ocean

About Block Island / Great Salt Pond, Rhode Island (USA)

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.

Avg wind

16.5 kts

Peak season

16.5 kts

Windy days/yr

281

Peak hours

15:00–18:00

Monthly wind profile

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Bars = average wind speed in knots. Solid = best months.

Best months

NovJanFebMarDecOctAprMayJunAugSepJul

Wind directions

SWWSWSSWWNWW

Amenities

Beach access with parking areas near Great Salt PondLocal shops and restaurants in Block Island villageRental equipment available at nearby water sports facilitiesRestrooms and basic facilities at public beach areas

Hazards

Shallow pond water with muddy bottom creates visibility issues and entanglement risksFerry traffic and recreational boat congestion, especially during peak seasonSudden wind shifts common in New England can create gusty, unpredictable conditionsCold water temperatures, particularly October through April

Launch notes

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.

Gear & clothing

Gear · Bring 12-15 meter kites for the 16.5 kt average winds; smaller 9-12 meter kites for lighter days. Flat water is perfect for directional boards or hydrofoils to maximize light wind performance.

Clothing · 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.

Crowd & 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.

Additional notes

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.

Features

Beginner Spot

Open in Google Maps