Will Rogers State Beach / California / United States

Named for the actor who lived here, this is a kitesurfing beach that suits all levels of ability including beginners.

You get a fair bit of room on this sandy beach, and you’re looking for the area between two jetties. It is on Pacific Coast Highway, heading west out of Santa Monica and well before you get to Malibu. The signs are pretty clear so you should find it easily, and you can park within about a 5-10 minute walk of the beach. Check with the lifeguard before you go out, there are a few rules to observe and they’ll bring you up to speed with them.

This beach has a side-onshore thermal wind from the northwest at 15-25 knots, and is good for the wave style rider. The winds are best and most consistent in the afternoons from April to October, and during the summer it is a popular spot – it will be crowded even during the week, so you’re going to have to wait your turn to launch and land. Water around here is clean and the atmosphere isn’t bad either, most people will be willing to help out beginners. It is best at low tide.

This place has good facilities, which is just as well given it isn’t close to anything else. You’ll find a campsite and hotel here, as well as gear sales, repair and hire. Instruction is available if you need lessons, and there are public showers. As usual for California, there are also lifeguards on duty.

Apart from it being busy, there isn’t anything to worry about here. Just be aware many others out here might be beginners.