Why Hood River Windsurfing is Making a Splash
By Andy Whitcomb
Jul 03, 2024
Windsurfing is a relatively new, potentially extreme water sport. Hood River, Oregon is known as the “Windsurfing Capital of the World.” Here are a few reasons why this might be a destination to visit for this sport.
Boating and fishing often go hand in hand. This is not one of those times. Windsurfing has the potential to be an extreme sport, combining elements of surfing and sailing. With a little wind, almost any body of water will do but one ideal windsurfing destination is Hood River, Oregon. Located near Portland, OR, the town of Hood River is on the banks of a wide stretch of the Columbia River. Thanks to strong, consistent winds the Hood River, Columbia River Gorge windsurfing area has been called the “windsurfing capital of the world.”
Beginner
Hood River Windsurfing is part of a large hub of water sport activities. It supports Hood River windsurfing lessons for beginners in July and some of the best windsurfing schools in Hood River for beginners. There is an area at one end of the Hood River Waterfront Park called “The Hook” which provides flat water windsurfing in Hood River in July until one is ready to venture out into more challenging water nearby. Windsurfing rentals in Hood River provide what to wear when windsurfing in Hood River such as the appropriate wetsuit for temperature insulation.
Enthusiast
July wind patterns for windsurfing in Hood River typically blow against the river current. This assists with one’s efforts to remain upright and in motion, which, in addition to the beautiful scenery, creates an ideal windsurfing destination. After moderate practicing, wave windsurfing in Hood River for intermediates may soon jump to an advanced level. One may even want to try testing their skills with freestyle windsurfing conditions in Hood River and perhaps even enter Hood River windsurfing competitions in July.
When Hood River Windsurfing, not only is it fun exercise, but one may discover a new community, passionate about this sport. There are many other reasons to visit this area but the unique combination of cooperative wind and water, and potential for sunny skies, sounds like a great activity for the adventuresome to try.