SPI Trip April 7-11!

Macaframa · Since 06 Jul 2010 81 Posts California Delta

So we had a slight dilema in deciding between La Ventana and SPI for our upcoming trip but we've settled on SPI in part due to the feedback from a lot of nice people that shared their thoughts with us. Thanks Smile

Now comes the planning for our kiting, lodging, and partying/relaxation plans.

I've been checking obscure Craigslist ads for vacation rentals and not knowing the area too well I'm afraid of being too far away from the most enjoyable kite spots or fun kite-vacation vibe.

Any accomodation or misc info you folks want to share will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks a lot,

windpig · Since 28 Aug 2008 282 Posts Obsessed

The Island is pretty small, so just about anywhere is good if you have a car. I would recommend getting a cheap rental so you can arrange downwinders with other folks. Great way to meet new people and they might even let you in on some local info. Don't forget to drink a Lone Star while your there (National beer of Texas).

borntofli · Since 29 Apr 2010 90 Posts

La quinta on the north side of the island usually has good web specials... Its right on the beach and you can walk out and kite.....The gulf is the far superior spot for kiting as the flat water spots are...... flat....... = boring.............. and crowded.....

tonyb · Mon Mar 28, 11 2:56 pm

Do some searches on here for SPI and you'll dig up lots of info. I prefer the north end of town as it works great for down winder get outs and is a little quieter. If you pick the "wrong" end of town the worst case is 10 minutes to either the jetty or the flats.

La Quinta is good, Travelodge is good, the new Hilton Garden Inn is supposed to be really nice. Lots of condo's right on the beach. Google maps is your friend when checking them out.

Gulf side is the funnest when the waves are on but if it's marginal or the wind is light the flats work great. Flats are also good for learning new tricks.

Wind isn't looking very good this week which means we should be back in to normal April weather by next week.

Tony

Macaframa · Since 06 Jul 2010 81 Posts California Delta

Big thanks guys, keep it coming! I'll follow your advice and do more research on what you've provided me. Looking good...

carolb · Tue Mar 29, 11 7:35 am **Condo Rentals**

Check Vacation Rentals By Owner www.vrbo.com
and Home Away www.homeaway.com
and skip going through a rental company that takes up to 30% of the rate. You can usually make a deal with owner by going direct especially if you are coming in the off season like most kiters do.

Look on google maps and try to find a place on the north side of the island as its usually nicer and better for walking to you place after a downwinder. It's closer to the flats too. Also, you'll pay more if you are on the beach but the price drops a lot when you are just a few houses back from it. Use the street view too.

flyin_dutchman · Since 12 Dec 2008 106 Posts LandLocked Stoked

I'm heading back down next week. I'll be staying @ Travel Lodge again. Fair prices, on North end, and far enough for a decent downwinder.
Tony and Carol - are you down there now? See ya in a bit, if so!

Dave

carolb · Wed Mar 30, 11 4:09 am **Down-winder?**

We're here until mid mid May then a month in Cali before returning to the Gorge. We're heading on a down-winder this morning as the northerly just blew in. PM me if you're in town and want to come. Otherwise PM us when you get here and we'll get together.