HAMWORTHY
OVERVIEW
Hamworthy is an alternative harbour location which is popular with intermediate-experienced riders looking to get away from the crowds, or stay in sheltered waters when South easterly wind blows.
Water conditions here are mellow with only the usual small harbour chop.
Riders must be aware of the multiple hazards on the beach, water and perimeters of this location.
WIND
SW | S | SE
Facing southerly this beach works for kiting in SW, S and SE wind. It’s possible to kite in West and East wind, but the framing land mass can disrupt the wind.
TIDES
RIDE-ABLE: ALL TIDES
The water at the back of the harbour stays high enough to ride in all tides tide, but riders should be aware than for 2 hours either side of low tide the perimeters of the area exposed mudflats which can present a hazard.
Riders should also note that the tidal current here can be quite strong when flowing mid tide, flooding in East-West and Ebbing out West-East
WATER CONDITIONS
HAZARDS
The Beach at Hamworthy is just 10 meters wide, with groynes every 40 meters and a promenade and beach huts fringing it. Behind the beach huts is a large play field around 500 x 1000m.
Launch procedure here is to set up and launch in the field, then walk over the promenade and into the water whilst flying. This creates inherent dangers which riders should make their own safety assessment on, it is not for inexperienced kiters.
Note: the park can be busy with families / kids who should always be give ample space and right of way.
On the water directly in front of the park the conditions are clear of hazards for around 1km out. The under surface is sand/mud/gravel.
Beyond this area is a boat mooring area which can be busy with yachts.
Framing the park and riding zone to the West and East are large marinas with no safe landing zones, riders should be sure they will be able to return to their starting point to ride here.
LOCAL RESTRICTIONS / ETIQUETTE
All independent kiters require a riders permit from the PHC
Riders should take extra care launching and flying kites in the park and near the beach, putting the safety of other first
Kiters should not ride amongst the moored boats
Kiters should be aware that 2-3km south (upwind) of this location is a nature protection and bird sensitive zone. We must respect this by not visiting the other islands
LOCAL LOGISTICS AND AMENITIES
Postcode: BH15 4DH
Pay and display car parking is located park side
Public toilets are located near the play park