Name:

Starr Gate, Blackpool

Beach description:

Starr Gate is situated in the district of Lytham in Blackpool, just a few hundred metres from Blackpool Pleasure Beach. But don’t let that put you off, Starr Gate is a pretty cool kite beach with a big kite surfing scene. The waves here can get pretty big so bring your wave board. If flat water shredding is your thing, you might want to head to the neighbouring beach, St Anne’s. Starr Gate will work on anything from NNW all the way around to SSE. The neighbouring beach St Anne’s works on SSE clockwise all the way round to NW, if the wind swings round a bit.

Beach Access

Getting to Starr Gate is really easy. Follow the signs for Blackpool Airport. You’ll come down the A5230 with the airport on your left. When you reach the end you’re pretty much opposite the Blackpool Light Craft Club. In the past I’ve parked in the lay-by outside their gates, but I’m told that if you do that now you’re asking for a ticket. There are a few on street places round and about instead.

Code of Conduct

Wind Direction

South, South-West, West, North-West

Water Type

St Anne's is a wave venue, but they're usually pretty messy. With an on-shore wind, you can ride all the way down to St Anne's, where you'll find flat water lagoons. Starr Gate works on all but the highest tide, where the water goes right into the dunes, but there's very little room for launching and landing at high tide. The beach has a large tidal range, so at low tide, prepare for a long hike to the water (the bonus is that you can ride it all the way back to the dunes as tide rolls back in).

Hazards

The swell can get pretty big when you head out, best to stick nearer the beach unless you’re really confident.