Caladesi Island

Caladesi Island is a barrier island beach break located on Florida's Gulf Coast, facing west toward the Gulf of Mexico. The spot features a long sandy beach with shallow water conditions and visible mangrove areas to the north. The protected lagoon environment provides relatively sheltered conditions compared to open ocean exposure. Wind conditions are marginal, with very low reliability (1.8%) and light average winds of 5.9 knots, making consistent riding sessions challenging. Side-shore winds from the north are optimal for kitesurfing here, though these conditions rarely occur. Water conditions are choppy with minimal wave energy (0.48m average), suitable for light-wind freestyle and beginner progression rather than wave riding. The shallow sandbars and mangrove obstacles require careful navigation. This spot is best suited for beginners practicing in calm, protected conditions or advanced kiters looking to session light wind on flat water. Water temperature around 22.9°C requires minimal thermal protection seasonally.