Riding under the Golden Gate Bridge is a bucket-list experience, but Crissy Field is an Advanced Only spot. The water is cold, the current is ripping (up to 6 knots), and huge container ships pass through the sailing zone. It requires respect, preparation, and solid skills.
Detailed Wind & Conditions Chart
| Month | Wind Probability | Avg Wind Speed | Current Factor | Wetsuit | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr - Sep | 90% | 20-30 kts | Extreme | 4/3 or 5/4 | Chop/Swell |
| Oct - Nov | 60% | 15-25 kts | High | 5/4mm | Mixed |
| Dec - Mar | 40% | 15-30 kts | Storm/Variable | 5/4mm | Stormy |
Data compiled from iKitesurf and Golden Gate Weather records.
Primary Spots
Crissy Field Beach
The main launch. You start from the sandy beach and ride upwind towards the bridge.
- The Inside: There is a wind shadow near the beach. You often have to slog or pump out 200m to hit the wind line.
- The Channel: Once outside, the wind is clean and strong. The swell ramps up as you get closer to the bridge.
Anita Rock
A marked rock pile mid-bay. The wind accelerates here. Good for speed runs.
The Current (CRITICAL)
The tide at Crissy Field dictates your session. Understanding the interplay between wind and water movement is essential for safety and performance.
graph TD
Wind[West Wind (20kts)] -->|Opposes| EbbTide[Ebb Tide (Outgoing)]
Wind -->|Flows With| FloodTide[Flood Tide (Incoming)]
EbbTide -->|Result| Chop[Steep Chop & More Apparent Wind]
FloodTide -->|Result| Flat[Flatter Water & Less Apparent Wind]
EbbTide -->|Risk| Ocean[Swept out to Golden Gate (DANGER)]
FloodTide -->|Risk| Bay[Swept down to Piers (Rescue Needed)]
- Ebb Tide (Outgoing): The water flows out west towards the ocean.
- Pros: The current pushes against the wind, creating more "apparent wind" (power) and steep, ramp-like chop. It keeps you upwind easily.
- Cons: If you break down, you will be swept out the Golden Gate into the Pacific Ocean. Extreme Danger.
- Flood Tide (Incoming): The water flows in east into the bay.
- Pros: Safer for intermediate riders. If you break down, you drift into the bay. The water is flatter.
- Cons: It pushes you downwind, making it harder to stay upwind. You need to be powered up.
Safe Zones
- The "Kiddie Pool": The area inside the Anita Rock marker. It is protected and has less current.
- Last Chance Beach: The small beach just before the St. Francis Yacht Club. If you can't stay upwind, aim for this. If you miss it, you are in the boat channel.
Safety Gear & Rules
Mandatory Gear:
- Wetsuit: 4/3mm or 5/4mm year-round. The water is 10-12°C.
- VHF Radio: Highly recommended. Channel 16 for Coast Guard.
- High-Vis: Wear a bright helmet or vest. Container ships cannot see you.
Right of Way:
- Commercial Traffic: Big ships have absolute right of way. Stay out of the channel if a ship is coming. They move faster than they look.
Accommodation & Dining
Accommodation
- Cow Hollow Inn: Reasonable rates, close to the Marina District. Visit Cow Hollow
- Travelodge Presidio: Budget option nearby.
- Argonaut Hotel: Fisherman's Wharf (touristy but close).
Dining
- The Warming Hut: At the west end of Crissy Field. Coffee and snacks.
- Tacolicious: Marina District. Great tacos.
- House of Prime Rib: SF classic (book months ahead).
Schools & Rentals
Note: There are no schools directly at Crissy Field due to the difficulty.
- Boardsports California: Located across the bay in Alameda and Coyote Point. These are safer, beginner-friendly spots. They offer rentals and lessons. Visit Boardsports CA
- 101 Surf Sports: Located in San Rafael. Great shop for gear. Visit 101
Travel Logistics
Getting There:
- Fly into SFO or OAK.
- Crissy Field is part of the Presidio national park.
Parking:
- East Beach Car Park. Paid parking. It fills up early on weekends.
- Don't leave valuables in your car. Break-ins are common in SF.
Resources
- St. Francis Yacht Club Webcam - Live view of the bay
- iKitesurf Crissy Field - Real-time sensor
- Crissy Field Webcam - Live view of the bay
- Golden Gate Bridge Webcam - Check the fog
- SF Boardsports - Local shop and lessons