San Francisco Bay Boardsailing Plan - Central Bay

Use

Steady wind conditions that blow onshore, a wide beach, and the scenic location make Crown Beach one of the most popular boardsailing sites on San Francisco Bay, particularly for novices. Typically, over 100 sailors a day launch and land at the beach under ideal conditions.

Rigging / Launching

Rigging and water access is concentrated centrally on Crown Beach, adjacent to the concession building. Kites can be inflated and rigged in front of the concessionaire or on the grass lawn just to the east of the Bay Trail. The wide beach immediately south of the concessionaire is used for launching and landing.

Safety

Crown Beach offers one of the few suitable locations on the Bay for kiteboarders to learn. The wide sandy beach, presence of knowledgeable staff, and understanding among kiters that many are beginners, contributes to a collaborative approach to safety. Winds are typically from the W, WNW, and WSW, which tends to push downed kiters back to shore. Limiting obstructions and interactions between sailors and other users between the parking area and the beach is critical to maintain safety.

Amenities

There is parking for 300+ vehicles, as well as nearby restrooms, an outdoor shower, water fountain, and picnic tables. Space is shared with sunbathers, walkers, dogs, and other beach-goers.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The site’s relative advantages

• Wide, sandy beach with adequate space for boardsailing rigging and launching makes the site suitable for novices
• The two mile long sandy beach, shallow warmer water, and light winds make this the best beginner location on the Bay for both windsurfing and kiteboarding
• Onshore winds push downed kiters and winsurfers back to shore
• Partnership between EBRPD and the boardsailing community
• Long history of boardsailing use with high levels of existing use
• Concessions provide central hub of activity, lessons, equipment and guidance to encourage safe use of the site

Weaknesses

Issues or characteristics that limit or degrade site use unless they are eliminated or minimized

• Impediments south of the launching/landing area can be hazardous
• Water obstacles west of the launch area that include two storm drains marked by buoys and between the buoys is a line of rocks that are visible at low tide
• Popularity of Crown Beach can result in high demand for beach space resulting in more opportunities for negative interactions among user groups

Opportunities

Actions that could contribute to improved site use and/or user experience

• Implement SFBA safety program, plus docents & outreach materials to ensure visitors and those less familiar with the site understand proper use and etiquette
  • Sea level rise and loss of beach resulting in narrowed launching and landing area
  • Placement of new impediments between parking / rigging area and along the beach
  • Kiters not following proper safety practices, resulting in hazards to other users

Threats

Factors or trends that could threaten site

Candlestick Point

Candlestick Point, and adjacent Davis Point, provide informal access paths to the water that have long been used for windsurfing. Windsurfers typically rig in the open areas along the roadside parking, then carry equipment through a path in the small riprap to the water. The site is used by windsurfers due to its strong winds, ease of access, and free parking.

Use

Strong winds and sufficient space for rigging and launching has made this a windsurfing site with a long history of use. The shoreline is lightly armored, with small riprap that is relatively easy to navigate, making it a convenient launch location.

Rigging / Launching

Windsurfers will park along the road located adjacent to the access points. Gear is rigged on the open areas at the top of the riprap.

Safety

This site is recommended for advanced riders only. Winds blow offshore, so riders risk having to make a long swim or would be in need of rescue if the wind drops. Submerged rocks and other obstacles make booties or other foot protection important.

Amenities

This informal access provides parking and opportunities to walk the shore on the Bay Trail. Candlestick Point State Recreation Area offers a variety of amenities, including restrooms, picnic tables, and a campground.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The site’s relative advantages

• Water access with adequate space for boardsailing rigging and launching
• Easy access from San Francisco and the Peninsula
• Long history of boardsailing use

Weaknesses

Issues or characteristics that limit or degrade site use unless they are eliminated or minimized

• Offshore winds make it suitable only to more experienced boardsailors
• Lack of facilities

Opportunities

Actions that could contribute to improved site use and/or user experience

• Work with State Parks and other stakeholders to formalize access to protect and, if needed, enhance boardsailor access through provision of a formal rigging area, parking, and water access
• If site use grows, implement SFBA safety program, plus docents & outreach materials to ensure visitors and those less familiar with the site understand proper use and etiquette

Threats

Factors or trends that could threaten site use

• Loss of access from erosion and longer-term sea level rise
• Restrictions or loss of parking
• Placement of new impediments between parking / rigging area and the water

The Emeryville Marina Point Launch is a cobble cement ramp located at the northern point of the Marina. The launch is a steep water entry ramp that is suitable for windsurfers. There is a washdown station at the top of the ramp and gear can be rigged on the grass lawns adjacent to the launch ramp.

Use

Windsurfers have been launching here for many years. The location at the tip of the marina offers access to optimal wind conditions at a convenient location. However, the steep and sometimes-slippery ramp and distance from the parking lot limits use of the site.

Rigging / Launching

Large grass lawns adjacent to the top of the ramp provide an ideal rigging area. Due to the distance of the lawns from parking, rigging can require several trips of a moderate distance that can deter use. The washdown at the top of the launch is a great amenity for boardsailors returning to shore at the Marina.

Safety

The bottom portion of the ramp can become slick with algae growth so users would need to use extreme caution carrying their rigs across this area. Additionally, the shoreline immediately around the Marina is all armored with riprap, requiring precision to return to the narrow access ramp.

Amenities

The site has ample parking and access to a variety of nearby amenities, including restaurants, walking paths, picnic areas, lawns, and restrooms. Ample paid parking is available in large lots at the site, and is allowed for up to 24 hours. Free 4-hour parking is provided in the furthest west parking lots, along the shoreline park, between 7AM and 10PM.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The site’s relative advantages

• Quality windsurfing rigging and launching facility
• Long history of boardsailing use
• Design completed in close consultation with the boardsailing community
• Central Bay location with convenient access from several freeways

Weaknesses

Issues or characteristics that limit or degrade site use unless they are eliminated or minimized

• Distance from the parking area to the rigging area and launch can deter use
• Algae growth on bottom of ramp can cause slip hazards and require care to navigate

Opportunities

Actions that could contribute to improved site use and/or user experience

• The Marina is ideally located for winds coming through the Golden Gate. With the presence of lawns for rigging, the provision of a wider ramp along the west side of the marina could make the area suitable for kiteboarding.

Threats

Factors or trends that could threaten site use

• Loss of shore access from erosion and longer-term sea level rise
• Restrictions or loss of parking
• Placement of new impediments between parking / rigging area and the launch

Judge John Sutter Regional Shoreline, also known as “Toll Plaza” or “Radio Beach”, is a sandy beach located just north of the Bay Bridge toll plaza in Oakland. The beach is heavily used by kiteboarders due to its consistent winds, convenient location, and rigging space. Rigging and water access is concentrated at the southern and central portions of the beach, where the beach is widest and there is adjacent upland area to lay down equipment.

Use

Optimal wind conditions, a sandy beach, and the convenient location make Toll Plaza Beach an increasingly popular boardsailing site. The onshore winds and lack of obstructions make the beach suitable for intermediate kiters. Typically, over 50 sailors a day launch and land at the beach under ideal conditions.

Rigging / Launching

Rigging and water access is concentrated at the south end of the beach, but well away from the bridge and traffic. Kiters will park along the frontage road north of the bridge and walk their gear along the beach to rig and launch. Kites should be launched at least 150 feet away from high voltage power lines, which are active and can pose a threat to kiters.

Safety

The lack of nearby obstructions, a relatively wide sandy beach, and onshore winds make Toll Plaza suitable for intermediate boardsailors. High voltage power lines located at the southern tip of the beach should be given a wide buffer. There are several radio towers located near the northern tip of the beach and kiters should avoid kiting too close to avoid getting snagged on a tower.

Amenities

This is an undeveloped site. Users park along the frontage road then walk the beach to the rigging area. Additional amenities may be provided when the site is developed as part of Gateway Park. The space is lightly used other than boardsailing, primarily by people fishing or just walking the beach.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The site’s relative advantages

• Sandy beach with adequate space for boardsailing rigging and launching
• Long history of boardsailing use with high levels of existing use
• Onshore winds that will carry downed kiters back to shore
• Central Bay location with convenient access from several freeways
• Scenic views

Weaknesses

Issues or characteristics that limit or degrade site use unless they are eliminated or minimized

• Sandy beach can be narrow at higher tides, leaving limited room for rigging and launching
• Emeryville Crescent (to the northeast) is extremely shallow and becomes mudflat at low tides and is not suitable for boardsailing
• Power lines and radio towers can pose hazards to kiters
• Trash dumping and unauthorized camping

Opportunities

Actions that could contribute to improved site use and/or user experience

• Work with EBRPD and other stakeholders to ensure planned Gateway Park project does not diminish boardsailor access or create new safety/use hazards
• Provide an upland rigging and launching area to improve use at high tides
• Protect or enhance parking on north side of the Bay Bridge
• Implement SFBA safety program, plus docents & outreach materials to ensure visitors and those less familiar with the site understand proper use and etiquette

Threats

Factors or trends that could threaten site use

• Placement of new impediments along the beach (i.e., fencing)
• Loss of parking along frontage road in proximity to the beach
• Kiters not following proper safety practices, resulting in hazards to other users

Oyster Point

Use

Strong winds and sufficient space for rigging and launching has made this a windsurfing site with a long history of use. The shoreline is heavily armored, but an access path / ramp provides a way through to the water. A windsock helps users to gauge wind strength and direction. A kiteboard concessionaire is located within the marina.

Rigging / Launching

Boardsailors will park within the main parking lot along the western edge of the Marina. Gear is rigged on the grass lawns located adjacent to the parking lot at the top of the riprap.

Safety

This site is recommended for advanced riders only. Submerged rocks and other obstacles make booties or other foot protection important. Winds blow offshore, so riders risk a long swim or being blown towards the East Bay if equipment fails.

Amenities

This access provides parking and opportunities to walk the shore on the Bay Trail. The Oyster Point Marina offers a variety of amenities, including a concessionaire, restrooms, picnic tables, water, and a restaurant.

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SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The site’s relative advantages

• Formal water access with adequate space for boardsailing rigging and launching
• Easy access from San Francisco and the Peninsula
• Long history of boardsailing use

Weaknesses

Issues or characteristics that limit or degrade site use unless they are eliminated or minimized

• Offshore winds make it suitable only to more experienced boardsailors

Opportunities

Actions that could contribute to improved site use and/or user experience

• Work with South San Francisco and other stakeholders to formalize access to protect and, if needed, enhance boardsailor access through provision of a formal rigging area, parking and water access
• If site use grows, implement SFBA safety program, plus docents & outreach materials to ensure visitors and those less familiar with the site understand proper use and etiquette

Threats

Factors or trends that could threaten site usef access from erosion and longer-term sea level rise

• Restrictions or loss of parking
• Placement of new impediments between parking / rigging area and the water

The San Leandro Marina provides informal access paths to the water for windsurfing. Windsurfers typically rig on the grass lawns located adjacent to the parking lot, then carry equipment through a path in the riprap to the water. The site is used by windsurfers due to its strong winds, ease of access, and free parking.

Use

Strong winds and sufficient space for rigging and launching has made this a windsurfing site with a long history of use. The shoreline is heavily armored, but an access path / ramp provides a way through to the water.

Rigging / Launching

Windsurfers will park within the main parking lot along the western edge of the Marina. Gear is rigged on the grass lawns located adjacent to the parking lot at the top of the riprap.

Safety

This site is recommended for advanced riders only. Submerged rocks and other obstacles make booties or other foot protection important. Winds blow onshore and most of the surrounding shoreline is heavily armored, so riders risk being blown into the rocks if equipment fails.

Amenities

This informal access provides parking and opportunities to walk the shore on the Bay Trail. The San Leandro Marina offers a variety of amenities, including restrooms, picnic tables, water, and a restaurant.

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SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The site’s relative advantages

• Water access with adequate space for boardsailing rigging and launching
• Easy access from the East Bay and South Bay
• Long history of boardsailing use

Weaknesses

Issues or characteristics that limit or degrade site use unless they are eliminated or minimized

• Onshore winds and armored shoreline make it suitable only to more experienced boardsailors

Opportunities

Actions that could contribute to improved site use and/or user experience

• Work with San Leandro and other stakeholders to ensure redevelopment of the marina and proposed facilities provide a quality rigging area, parking, and water access for windsurfers
• If site use grows, implement SFBA safety program, plus docents & outreach materials to ensure visitors and those less familiar with the site understand proper use and etiquette

Threats

Factors or trends that could threaten site usef access from erosion and longer-term sea level rise

• Restrictions or loss of parking
• Placement of new impediments between parking / rigging area and the water

Use

Windsurfers and kiteboarders launch from a ramp in a small cove at the northeastern end of the Island. This location offers access to optimal wind conditions, but can be hazardous due to the damaged, slippery and narrow ramp, nearby obstructions, and surrounding riprap shoreline. Difficulty in accessing the site during Navy cleanup activities also limits use. A boat supported concessionaire currently provides lessons near this launch.

Rigging / Launching

A small grass lawn is adjacent to the top of the ramp that can be used for rigging, but a couple of trees on the lawn near the top of the ramp can snag lines or kites. Parking is limited.

Safety

The ramp is narrow and surrounded by riprap, including a jetty immediately to the north of the ramp. This requires skill to navigate in and out of, particularly for kiters returning to shore at this location.

Amenities

There are currently no formal amenities at the site. Access is largely informal, with parking occurring along adjacent streets . Development of this site as a formal launch could make this a key location for Bay Area access due to high quality winds and riding experience.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The site’s relative advantages

• Access to some of the best, most-consistent winds in the Bay
• Low-lying portions at the north end of the Island often create an area of calm water on the lee (east) of the Island, while kiters still have access to winds blowing over the Island
• Iconic location and existing boardsailing use for approximately 25 years

Weaknesses

Issues or characteristics that limit or degrade site use unless they are eliminated or minimized

• Proximity of obstructions to the launch and surrounding armored shoreline block the wind and make the launch suitable only to advanced kiters and windsurfers
• Algae growth on bottom of ramp can cause slip hazards and require care to navigate
• Intermittent area closure from site remediation or construction

Opportunities

Actions that could contribute to improved site use and/or user experience

• Redevelopment of the Island offers an opportunity to develop facilities to support boardsailing use
• The Island is ideally located for winds coming through the Golden Gate. With the presence of lawns for rigging, the provision of a wider ramp and clearance of obstructions close to the water could make the area a world class location for boardsailing
• Providing a second ramp to the southeast of the main ramp would allow for entry and exit that is further downwind and enhance safety
• SFBA funded an engineering site assessment for improved launch infrastructure and beach creation
• Possibility of collaboration with TISC for access to instruct beginners to intermediate boardsailors

Threats

Factors or trends that could threaten site use

• Loss of shore access from erosion and longer-term sea level rise
• Restrictions or loss of parking
• Placement of new impediments between parking / rigging area and the launch