Hangar's Beach, located in Satellite Beach, Florida, is a hidden gem for kitesurfers seeking a serene and less crowded environment. Situated near Patrick Space Force Base, this beach offers steady north winds most of the winter and favorable conditions for wave riding.

Its proximity to the base means there is minimal development along the shoreline, providing a more natural and secluded setting.

 This is one of many small beaches along the coast. I’ve been traveling this area for 4 years and I found Satellite to be a very special place. It’s quiet, you can always find a private beach, and there are lots of small parking lots along the way.

It’s important to note that these beaches are not the most beginner friendly but that’s not to say new riders can't kite here. More so that comparatively to shallow flat water locations, you will need to have the self and situational awareness that surfers have.

 There can be a variety of wave conditions, rip currents, and all the responsibility that goes with riding the ocean. I wouldn’t normally even think of these things but Florida is home to some incredibly forgiving shallow lagoons so it comes to mind when creating these guides.

Hangar's Beach is ideal for kitesurfers who prefer a quieter atmosphere away from the bustling tourist spots. The beach features a wide expanse of sandy beaches, offering ample space for setting up equipment. The beach is long, but it can be narrow depending on the tides.

Access is convenient, with a boardwalk leading to the beach and showers available for rinsing off after your session. The presence of scattered rocks near the shoreline contributes to favorable surfing conditions, adding an extra element of excitement for wave riders.

The real magic of riding here is getting space to yourself. During the winter months, the north winds kick up and the tourists disappear. On windy weekdays, you’re sure to find space to yourself and your crew. Aside from dedicated east coast surfers who don’t seem to mind the wind as much as other places.

For kitesurfers, this is heaven on earth. You can arrange some epic downwinders in the waves and level up fast without worrying about staying upwind. Big air riders and freestylers can absolutely ride here too. The waves make for good kickers but the intervals can be shorter upping the challenge.

North wind is the most common in the winter and depending on the beach it can be quite gusty, As a general rule, the further south you go from Cocoa Beach, the smoother the wind gets. Your best bet is to drive north to Playa Linda or south to Satellite Beach. 

Side & Side-Onshore Winds: Hangar's Beach is well-suited for side-shore or side-onshore winds from the North, Northeast, Southeast, and East. Its geographic positioning allows the beach to benefit from cleaner north winds, making it a superior choice for winter riding compared to locations further north.

Onshore Winds: East winds can be enjoyable for more advanced riders. However, the beach's smaller size means onshore winds can create challenging conditions, especially if there is a significant shore break.

Beginner and intermediate riders may find the conditions manageable on days with smaller waves and lighter east winds. The key is to ensure you can ride upwind even when the current reduces some of the wind's power.
 
Offshore Winds: It's advisable to avoid riding in offshore conditions (West, Southwest, Northwest) at Hangar's Beach, as the wind can carry you out to sea, posing significant risks. Offshore ocean winds are generally not recommended, and only very experienced riders should consider them, exercising extreme caution due to their gusty nature and potential hazards.

To reach Hangar's Beach, head down A1A in Satellite Beach. You'll find a small parking lot adjacent to the beach, providing easy access. The smaller parking area means fewer beachgoers, allowing for a more relaxed and uncrowded kitesurfing experience.

Note that large vehicles like RVs may not fit here. For more parking options, you can find a larger lot further south near The Tides restaurant, which also offers showers and restrooms. The ocean conditions at Hangar's Beach can vary, but on a strong north wind or with a sizable swell, expect some intense wave action.

 It's important to be aware of rip currents and shifting sandbars, which can create unpredictable conditions. Always check the surf report and assess the conditions before heading out, using common sense and erring on the side of caution.

Kitesurfing Access: Hangar's Beach is a prime location for wave riders who enjoy smaller, more intimate beaches. The waves here align nicely with a north wind, providing excellent opportunities for wave riding. The smaller crowds mean you'll have more room to maneuver and enjoy the surf. Twin tips are fun when the waves are smaller and on lighter wind days. 

Kitefoil Access: Kitefoilers will appreciate the deeper waters and fewer obstacles compared to other beaches. However, as always, watch for submerged rocks and other hazards close to shore. Foiling here can be rewarding on smaller days when the swell is more manageable.

Wing Surfing: Hangar's Beach can be a suitable spot for wing foiling, particularly for advanced riders looking to catch waves. Beginners may want to consider other locations with more forgiving conditions. Watch for side-shore winds with no swell; high tide is a great time to give it a go.

Hangar's Beach is not typically recommended for beginners due to the potential hazards. The beach is narrow, and launching can be challenging, particularly during high tide when space is limited. This spot is better suited for intermediate to advanced riders who are comfortable navigating waves and managing tricky conditions. Unlike more crowded beaches, the limited parking here means fewer people, giving kitesurfers and wingfoilers more room to enjoy their session. However, it's crucial to remain vigilant about the conditions and to respect the local surfers and beachgoers who also frequent this spot. Waves and Shore Break: The beach is known for its scattered rocks near the shoreline, which contribute to favorable surfing conditions. However, these rocks can also pose hazards, so it's essential to be cautious. Rip Tides: As with many beaches, rip currents can be present. Always stay aware of the water conditions and know how to identify and react to rip currents. Beachgoers: While Hangar's Beach is less crowded, it's still important to be mindful of other visitors, especially during peak times. Deep Water: The beach features a wide expanse of thick sand, offering ample space for setting up equipment. Access is convenient, with a boardwalk leading to the beach and showers available for rinsing off after your session.

• Waves
• Shore break
• Rip Tides 
• Strong Ocean Currents.  
• Deep Water 

Elite Watersports has served the Tampa and St Petersburg area for years. They offer kiteboarding and wingsurfing lessons. They also have a retail shop equipt with the latest kitesurfing gear. This is hands down the best location to learn kitesurfing. We have shallow flat water and easy beginner conditions. Call today and reserve your spot for jet-ski-supported lessons. If the wind is blowing, we're going!

If you need help give us a call. .
(727)-800-2202