Sandy Acres

Sandy Acres, also know as Mexicos or Upton Towans…this is a real gem of a kitesurfing and windsurfing location. It holds a prize position on St Ives beach sandwiched between Gwithians and Hayle River mouth. Backing on to sand dunes it offers a rideable spot at pretty much any state of the tide although you will need confidence at high tide as there is not much beach left to launch and land your kit.

Try to gauge the conditions correctly to take the right kit down as it is quite an enjoyable stroll down the steep sandy dunes. Just remember to save some energy as the soft sand is a bit of a killer with soggy kit on the way back up.

The general rule of thumb is the swell will get bigger the further you head east towards Gwithian Towans. This spot can offer a great stepping stone from the flatter water often found at the Bluff (Hayle). But do not be lulled into a false sense of security here as it offers waves with a serious punch in the right conditions. Often the waves are reasonably spaced to give good rides or brilliant boosting if you want to hit some ramps on a twin tip. Be wary of rips as there is generally always current taking you downwind with the prevailing conditions so you will need enough power to be comfortable. Worst case scenario is you have a walk back up the beach and the likelihood is that you will often have some company too.

Local Watersport coach, Lee Harvey (numerous times UK Wave kite Champion) can be seen ripping up sections here if the conditions are good. He often runs wave coaching clinics from either here, Gwithians or Marazion.

Love this Go Pro photo from Lee with Mike Perry bottom turning…