Water conditions are usually flat or choppy, with average winds of 12-20kts. Higher winds from 20-35kts, create big rolling swells 5-6ft high. If the tide is incoming and the difference between low and high is ten or more go to the spot north of RB and settle for a downwinder. Be aware of the pilings at the North end of the park. You may not see them on high tide but they are there.
Kiters launch and land at the North tip of the park. This area is less crowded, and gives you the most downwind room. At low tide, the beach leaves plenty of room for launching and landing. During high tide, the beach is small. At these times, most kiters launch and land in the grass clearing. Also located at the north tip of the park (if the grass is wet, it is very slick! Get a hold down!). During summer months the beach is very crowded, and it is hard to safely launch or land your kite. Around this time, most kiters find another beach. During fall, winter, and spring, Golden Gardens Park is almost empty. There is plenty of room for safe riding. It makes for a great riding area that is very close to the city. It has a nice grass lawn for rigging gear. The beach is ok for launching.
4/3 wetsuit late spring, shorty to board shorts in late June through July and August. Water temp 50°F late spring to upper 60's°F in August (tide will effect this more than in Gorge). Air temps 50's to 70°F in spring and 70's to 90's°F in summer.
Tacoma Airport. From I-5 take the 175th exit. Head west to Hwy 99 and north on 99 to 185th . Head west (left) on 185th (thru 7 stop lights), this becomes Richmond Beach Road. Follow Richmond Beach Rd all the way to the bottom of the hill until you come to the second flashing 4-way stop. You'll see a Washington Parks sign pointing left to Richmond Beach.
There are old dock pylons near the north launch. During high tides the pylons are submerged just a few feet under water. Ask locals where they are if you can't see them. During low tides the pylons are fully exposed and easy to avoid.
