SPI really all that better than Corpus/NPI?

[talbert99]

So some friends and I went to Corpus this weekend to check it out. Nice kiting. Question though for the Padre Island vets out there. Is the drive to SPI really all that worth it compared to the Corpus/SPI area? For us it's another 2.5-3 hours (on top if the 6 to get down to Corpus). Wondering if it's worth the extra hike to get to the tip if you have enough wind in the Corpus area.

Some food for thought (in case it matters), we are all in our first year of kiting.

Thanks

[SSK]

For kiting they are equal but different. It is not like one is head and shoulders better than the other so it would be hard to justify 6 more hours driving if you are weekend warrioring it. The towns are very different and have a different feel to them. If you had a week or two maybe check out SPI, but the wind is pretty similar. I think SPI might have more consistent wind, but CC might have more stronger wind. CC has more varied launches, but very spread out. SPI might have nicer water and launches. For waves SPI is more side then side on so it is better for waves.

[coleman]

yes, its worth it. everytime i bypass corpus and drive the extra 2 hours i always am reminded how its totally worth it.

[roux]

Depends how you define better.

Corpus gets more wind and more variation in spots. Larger City.

SPI has better waves, nicer looking water, less random pipes in the water. Small Vacation Town.

[loco4viento]

I really enjoy both places. I love the cleanliness and desolation of some of the SPI spots, while I like the variety that CC offers. I could happily go to either place and have a fantastic time.

For a beginner I think SPI is the hands down choice.

[jyetley]

For just 2-3 days of kiting I would not make the extra drive...as I have several times. However, if I was a novice, I definately would.

I like CC alot and plan to go back for more!!! However SPI has several easier/friendlier launches, a better kiter/vacation vibe and a way more convenient/no_hassel driving situation.

However the thing that concerns me most about kiting in CC is the crime. When I was there last year, I was warned that my car may get broken into while kiting along the bay's south shore. (And I was also warned about parking at the beach near the Lexington.) Furthermore, I know of a friend who had his car broken into just last month, while he was kiting at the Tanks. That's 3 of the 4 most popular spots around the bay!

Corpus Christi needs to get a handle on this, as it certainly affects tourism.

[TheJoe]

SPI has far better waves. If it is windy and the surfers are not out the south jetties are money. Plus it is really easy to do down winders if your staying towards the north end of the island. Just grab a cab and go downwind till you get to your hotel.

I find it hard to go either place living in Houston. If it blows in either of those places I have wind if not I have a cable park. Only go when I know it's a sure thing and has to be for 3 days min.

[Bikelock]

SPI has the nice clean water, best waves in the Gulf and that great Island vibe.

You can also find areas with nice afternoon thermals.

[surfboy1968]

YES.......

[seaplus]

I too would suggest SPI for 1st year kiters mainly due to the hugeness of the flats. Yet once you're an experience kiter you might like Corpus Christi a bit more.