Salt Run Slick

Salt Run Slick is a small, clean-water, flat-water kitesurfing spot (with chop depending on conditions) located behind Conch Island in the Saint Augustine area. Access is the main constraint: you reach the launch by boat, with launching described from the west side of Conch Island / the beach opposite the Conch House. Wind is typically most favorable in winter months, with the best documented months being January, February, March, April, November, and December. The spot’s best wind directions are given as SE and NW, with reports also mentioning frontal/thermal influence. In strong SE wind, riders note it can turn into an “awesome slick” on high tide, while NW can be choppier depending on positioning. Safety is dominated by hazards near shore: oyster-encrusted and rocky shoreline, plus shells on the small sandy launch area. Multiple sources emphasize needing solid upwind riding ability and being mindful of downwind drift (particularly in SE wind). There are also notes about strong tidal currents in the main channel and boat traffic, so respecting navigation channels is important. Overall, this is a specialized, low-profile venue best suited to riders who can manage boat logistics and are comfortable with self-sufficient setups in an isolated location. For comfort and safety, foot protection is strongly recommended due to sharp shells; some sources also recommend impact protection and a wetsuit for seasonal cold fronts.