Hillhead is one of the windiest spots on the south coast due to the combination of sea breezes and funnelling effect of the Isle Of Wight and Calshot. It is a great venue for intermediates, beginners and advanced. Hillhead is a fun spot that has steep chop, once the wind gets up, allowing you to jump both ways. Although tidal, you will never really notice it. (Apart from a long walk back to the car if you leave it too late.)Chris Audsley tells us more about his home spot…
- Beach Faces:
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South
- Best Wind Direction:
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South-west which is cross-on from the right.
- Best Wind Direction For Waves:
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Really strong South-west.
- Not Good:
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North to North-east is bang offshore with too many buildings affecting the wind.
- Tide:
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Not noticeable unless NW or SE. You can sail at any state but mid tide on the push will bring more chop and is better for jumping.
- What’s On The Bottom:
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Sand and stones.
- Any Hazards:
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There is a sand bar directly opposite the car park which you can catapult into at mid to low tide so watch out! There are groynes but they are not really a problem unless it is a really high tide.
- Other Water Users:
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Too many kitesurfers can ruin your day.
- Suitability / Levels:
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Beginner to winner! It’s an ideal freestyle spot with a few ramps and there are lots of blasters (like my Dad).
- Wipeout Factor:
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Zero, it never gets waves!
- Instruction:
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Andy Biggs windsurfing (Tel.02392 582614) teaches at nearby Stokes Bay in the summer.
- Kit Hire:
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None
- Friendly Factor:
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Yes, always a lot of people down and they are quite chirpy all year round.
- No Wind Alternatives:
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Yes, always a lot of people down and they are quite chirpy all year round.
- Surfable?:
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Definitely not.
Facilities:
| Toilets |
Yes, on site. |
|---|---|
| Shower |
No |
| Windsurfing Shop |
Andy Biggs, 5 miles away in Gosport. |
| Food |
One Stop convenience store. |
| Parking |
Loads of spaces and FREE all year round. |
| Pub |
The Osbourne and the The Crofton both serving good food. |
- Accommodation:
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Kingfisher Park Campsite in Stokes Bay
- Local Hotshots:
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Paul Hunt, Chris Audsley, Chris Murray, John Brookes, Colin McCulloch, Jamie Hancock and Rich Audsley (in that order!)
- Local Knowledge / Secrets:
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If North-west and offshore, then drive west along the coast to a place called Titchfield where it will be cross-shore.
If the prevailing wind is between North-west and South-west with a cold evening then sun in the morning followed by cloud over lunch, then you are in for a evening sail! - Extra:
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Seafarers Sailing Club based on the beach. They race at weekends.
- How To Get There:
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Get on the M27 and take junction 9 from the west, 11 from the east. Head towards Lee on Solent or Stubbington. Follow the sign posts to HillHead.
- Report By:
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Chris Audsley.
