Lake Michigan's famous spring and fall season (April–May, September–November) delivers consistent 30+ knot north winds ideal for big air competitions and advanced jumping. Multiple launch zones—Waukegan, South Haven, Grand Haven, and others—offer varied conditions tailored to wind direction and skill level. Cold water requires a 3/2 or 5/4 wetsuit, while wave potential increases during peak wind days. The spot benefits from excellent access via Chicago's O'Hare and Midway airports, plus train connections. Diverse secondary activities include nightlife in Chicago and sand dune recreation, though beach crowds can gather during big-wind sessions.
Wind strength
Consistency
Wind quality
Water
Water temp
Boosting direction
Woo big-air record: 15.9 m by Kirk Ziegler · bottom-end kite 15m+
Typical month-by-month snapshot — use live forecasts before you go.
| Month | Wind chance | Avg wind | Air °C | Water °C |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 17% | 9.3 kt | -1.8 | -3.8 |
| Feb | 36% | 10.7 kt | -2.6 | -4.6 |
| Mar | 25% | 10 kt | 3.3 | 1.3 |
| Apr | 21% | 9.7 kt | 7.9 | 5.9 |
| May | 12% | 8.8 kt | 14.1 | 12.1 |
| Jun | 4% | 7.9 kt | 19.3 | 17.3 |
| Jul | 3% | 7.6 kt | 21.6 | 19.6 |
| Aug | 6% | 7.7 kt | 21.8 | 19.8 |
| Sep | 11% | 8.2 kt | 18.9 | 16.9 |
| Oct | 18% | 9.6 kt | 13 | 11 |
| Nov | 31% | 10.5 kt | 5.8 | 3.8 |
| Dec | 29% | 10.6 kt | 2.4 | 0.4 |
8.0/10
By car: Parking varies by spot — check local signs and kite school partners.
Shuttle: Many schools offer pickups from nearby towns.
Getting there
Car needed
Cost of a kite day
Internet
Local infrastructure
via OpenWeather
via Windy.com
