FAQ

When is the best time of year to come to Worldwinds?

Worldwinds is great year round destination only closing mid December through mid January. 

• Spring  is generally the windiest time of the year.  It offers warm water and wind from March through July. February can also be good, but the wind earlier in the year tends to be “frontal” meaning colder north winds, and cooler water.
• Summer brings lighter winds.  Perfect for all levels. 
• Fall season is from mid-October through November. This mini-season is less reliable than our spring season, however, the water is also less crowded. As in the early season the winds can be colder frontal winds this time of year.

What are Worldwinds hours of operation?

Worldwinds is open just about year round.  Closing from December 15th - January 15th.  Hours of operation listed below.

• Closed from December 15th - January 15th
• Winter Hours (January 16th - March 1)  Open 5 days a week 11am- 5pm
  
• Spring, Summer, and Fall Hours (March 1st - Day Light Saving)  Open 7 days a week 11am - 6pm
  

What are the windsurfing conditions like?

The Laguna Madre offers predominately flat-water conditions.Our spring winds (March-June) are typically a thermal southeast breeze(side-off shore) from 20-30 mph. During our northerly frontal winds, larger chop offers bump and jump opportunities. As an added bonus the water is warm and shallow, only chest deep in most areas.

Will I need a wetsuit?

Depending on the time of year you visit you might. October through March expect to need anything from a 5/4 Full suit to a shortie. April through September only requires a shortie at the most, but more often then not board shorts and a rash guard will do the trick.

What do I need to bring?

If you have room, be sure to bring your harness, wetsuit,and booties, however we do have rentals available from $6-$10 per day. Also bring your normal beach stuff; a towel, sunscreen, water and snacks. We have a limited selection of drinks, snacks, and sunscreen for sale.

How close is Worldwinds to the water?

Our front door opens up only a few yards from the water’s edge.

Where are the accommodations?

The hotels and condo’s listed by Worldwinds are all a short 12-mile drive from the sailing center.

What about camping?

Bird Island offers a unique camping experience for those wishing to “rough-it”. Camping is $5/night and you must have a camping permit displayed in the window of your vehicle.  Camping permits are located at the Bird Island Basin kiosk across from the bathrooms.  Tent and RV sites are available on a first come first serve basis. All sites are primitive with no hook-ups. Chemical toilettes are located at either end of the campground. Dump station and water are located in the park, just 3 miles south. All sites sit directly on the shore.

Do I need a park pass?

Yes, for access into the National Park  you will need to purchase the Park Entrance Pass ($10/week, $20/year).   Passes can be purchased at the front gate upon entrance to the Padre Island National Seashore. After your first day, please show your Park entrance pass to the front gate attendant..

Do I need a rental car?

For our fly-in guests, a rental car is a must. The hotels and condos on the island are a short 12-mile drive from Worldwinds.

Can I walk to the launch site from my hotel/condo?

No, see above question.

Can I take the gear to other launch sites?

All Worldwinds gear rentals are for onsite use only during business hours.

Can I change boards and sails during the day?

Yes, Worldwinds offers a great selection of the latest gear.

Can I kiteboard at Bird Island Basin?

Kiteboarding is not permitted in the Padre Island National Seashore.  “Kite surfing, hang gliding, parasailing,paragliding, ultra lights, and car sailing are prohibited within the park.”- Padre Island National Seashore.  There are several other great kiteboard launch sites around Corpus Christi and Padre Island.  More info here: