Frequently asked questions
Q. I would like only an hour to two hours of instruction but the booking says three hours - am I committed to paying for three hours of instruction?
A. The time block is mainly for us so we can expect to have you for up to three hours. If you don’t go the full three we prorate it to the hourly rate depending on the lesson type.
Q. When is the season for Floras Lake?
A. Our season generally runs from May - September. The North winds are the best for the lake and can start appearing in April and start to taper off around October. June, July, August are the best months (July being the most reliable). The shoulder seasons can be fairly unpredictable and cold!
Q. Are south winds rideable on the lake?
A. South winds are in fact rideable but can be extremely gusty due to the trees at the south end of the lake. For that reason, we don’t teach kiteboarding in the south winds - but we can still teach winging/foiling lessons as they are less affected in gusty conditions.
Q. What do I need to bring to my lesson?
A. We have everything you need! Even wetsuits and booties. Just bring a towel and a smile!
Q. Do I need to prepay for my lesson?
A. No need to prepay as we do not know how long you will be out on your lesson. If you sign up for a 1/2 day (3hr) course and do not use the full time, we will prorate it to the hourly charge.
Q. Where are the nearest accommodations?
A. Luckily for us there is a county campground at the lake! Make sure to check on availability as it can fill up quickly when it’s a windy forecast. Boice-Cope Park is the name of the campground. We also own a Bed and Breakfast that is next to the campground, as well, if you don’t feel like “roughing-it” - all within 5 minutes walking to the kite school. For reservations and availability please visit floraslake.com.
Q. What is the lake temperature in the summer?
A. The temperature in the summer ranges from 60º Fahrenheit to 70º - July and August being the warmest at around 70º. Doable in a 3/2 suit but the wind chill can make it quite cold. A 4/3 is ample and 5/4 if you tend to get cold easily.
Q. I’m lost and I can’t quite find the school!
A. We can be a little tricky to find if it’s your first time at Floras Lake, the easiest way to find us is to park at the boat ramp and follow the path SOUTH along the lakes edge (east side) and you will run right into us. If at the campground, make your way down either of the two paths to the lakes edge and continue South (most people know where the school is if you need help). Do not cross the bridge unless you want a very beautiful beach-walk instead.
Q. What is your age limit for teaching kids?
A. Our age limit is 12+ and 100lb minimum. Although we do bend the policy from time to time depending on how physically and mentally prepared they are. It gets tricky the lighter they are as the wind can be a very strong force on their tiny little bodies. Ask yourself these questions - Is my child receptive to active feedback and instruction? Is my child a confident swimmer? Can my child perform under pressure if something doesn’t go as expected? Three yes’s and your kid may just be ready for a lesson!
Q. Is the lake deep enough for hydrofoiling?
A. Yes! The lake is in fact quite deep enough to hydrofoil. The top quarter of the lake is shallower and is fine for a 28” (72cm) mast, although if you want to kite foil or wing with a longer mast then further down the lake is more suitable. Anywhere South of the kite school and you will be fine.
Q. Are the weeds a big problem?
A. In general, no, they are not a big problem. Some years are worse than others and the weed banks tend to be on the edges of the drop-off from shallow to deep water. Luckily for us this year has been pretty mellow in the weed department. You can easily avoid them if you stick towards the center of the lake.
Q. What size kites and wings should I bring?
A. Bring them all! We get a variety of different winds here but it can get quite strong. 20 - 30mph is a normal range for us when the conditions are ideal.
Q. Do you offer group lessons?
A. Please email us if you would like to book a group lesson. Most of our lessons are one-on-one but we can offer group lessons if it is beginning winging, windsurfing, or beginning kite land lessons.
Q. Is it possible to arrange Jet-ski pick ups?
A. Yes we can arrange pick ups if you are struggling to stay up wind and would like the confidence of knowing a ski will come save you. If you would like to arrange pick ups make sure to email us or check in with one of our instructors.
Q. I can’t decide if I want to kite, wing, windsurf, or hydrofoil!
A. If you’re having trouble deciding what sport to learn or you just want to have fun on the water then beginning winging, windsurfing, or learning to hydrofoil might be the call for you! Kiteboarding is a pretty involved sport and requires a big investment if you really want to learn it - although getting a beginning land lesson can be very fun and a great start to get your foot in the door if you’re leaning towards kiting. Although ultimately it’s up to you! We are here for every part of your journey.