5 Best Places to Windsurf in the US

Windsurfing is an excellent sport for those of us who want to enjoy some time out on the water, but are not quite into hanging ten. Instead, we get the joy of feeling the wind itself push us across the water with ease. If you're interested in doing some windsurfing, consider checking out these great spots in the United States!

Hood River, Oregon

Considered one of the best windsurfing spots in the world, this river located in the Columbia gorge of Oregon is definitely a place that you will want to check out. The area is known not only for its great windsurfing, but also as a generally beautiful area that is fun for the whole family. Locals say that the wind is best from noon to early afternoon, but you will see people enjoying the river most of the day. Plan your whole trip around this excellent spot!

Merritt Island, Florida

Famous for its Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island is an excellent place to windsurf. Being right on the gulf makes for some fantastic gusts and beautiful water. You'll want to surf all day after you experience that rush of the wind in your hair. The great thing about Merritt Island is their fun and relaxed atmosphere. Just come here to enjoy the joy of wind surfing.

San Francisco, California

Wind surfing in the San Francisco Bay is one of the great pastimes of the area. Numerous competitions for windsurfing are often held in the famous bay each year. With that fantastic shoreline and great wind, it is definitely high on the list of places to windsurf. Naturally, though, when you are done surfing you can also enjoy the San Francisco night life.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Made up of 200 miles of barrier islands, the outer banks provide a unique and engaging place to windsurf on the East coast. Besides the actual excitement of the surfing, you can also enjoy the tours of historic areas including local lighthouses that guided ships to shore before the invention of modern navigation systems. It's a fun place to be and to surf!

Lake Michigan, Illinois

One of the greatest places to surf in the Midwest is definitely Lake Michigan. This huge lake has such powerful gusts that it feels like ocean surfing! During the summer months, with the warm weather, this is one of the best places to surf and to hang out. Nearby Chicago is full of fun things to do during the summer and for the rest of the year for that matter!

Source: http://www.uswindsurfing.org/ ; http://www.windfunstl.com/lake_michigan.asp