finding waves in the keys?

[robrider]

I'm in south-florida for a month and so far the only wind I see in the forecast is down in the keys, but all the spots are listed as flatwater spots. Isn't there any wave riding areas down there?
Thanks for the info!

[ricki]

The bottom conditions in the Keys are such that waves can't make it to shore from deep water. Deep water lay outside the Florida Reef Tract. That can be four to five miles offshore from the Upper Keys and even further off as you head south. This is why the Keys are known as a flat water destination. If you had a boat you might be able to find a spot to anchor in the lee of a shallow section of reef, do a boat launch and kite outside the reef. If you aren't experienced in doing it, I wouldn't recommend it as there is a lot that can go wrong. The good news/bad news is long term wind forecasts down here much beyond three days are often worthless. Some of the bad news is our wind "traditionally" turns off around now. Will this year be traditional, no one knows quite yet. I hope you are rigged for lighter winds as that may be all you find for much of the next month, or not?

[robrider]

Thanks Ricky. Was hoping for a different answer though

[ricki]

You can't fight geography, at least outside geologic time. It is just the way it is. Usually, the Keys are about 5 mph stronger than adjoining areas the mainland. It is rare to only have wind there and nowhere else.

Rick