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Ned's Point Overview
With the exception of Little Harbor which may or may not be closed to windsurfing, Ned's Point is the only public beach on the mainland that has good thermals. Just think, no horrendous summertime bridge traffic, no crowds (all at Kalmus Beach), huge grassy rigging area, and free parking. Better yet, Connecticut and Rhode Island shredders pass right by this beach on their way to the Cape. If conditions are sailable (average 16 mph or greater), Ned's Point provides the time-pressed sailor with an interesting choice; spend two or more hours in the car going to the Cape, or sail a slightly larger sail.
Ned's Point has a major hazard: skeg-eating rocks in the area immediately around the launch. Often, these lie in wait just below the surface - so exercise care when you leave and return. The launch itself consists of pebbles and occasionally, broken glass. Footware is advised.
Ned's is an excellent place to learn waterstarts and use of a harness. First, the water is protected and sees only swells, so uphauling is possible while you perfect the art of waterstarting. Second, you are surrounded by land on three sides. Thus, if equipment should break or conditions rapidly change to those beyond one's sailing ability, you will get blown to land not far from the launch. This allows you to test your limits with little penalty.
The lack of crowds means you can work on beachstarts and waterstarts near the launch without feeling you are in everyone's way. There's plenty of room and most Ned's sailors would be happy to provide tips and encouragement if given the opportunity. Furthermore, there is no designated swimming area. So unlike Kalmus Beach, which is also a swells-only site, you won't drift into swimming area ropes and then be forced to swim your gear to shore. Finally, given this is the only public accessible location on the mainland that has good winds in summer, your chances of working on beachstarts, waterstarts, and harness techniques are much better here than at any other non-Cape Cod beach.
To the east of the launch (to your left) are some sandy beaches - and during the summer season, a bathroom is open to the public. This, coupled with the large grassy area, might make family outings feasible. Unfortunately, there is no concession at the beach, but a mile north on Rt 6 is the Oxford Creamery which provides great fried food and ice cream.
Great place to learn waterstarts, beachstarts, and harness techniques
Grassy rigging area, ample parking, no parking fee
Good summer thermals, and hours closer than other Cape beaches
Restroom open ONLY on the weekends... even in summer.
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Maps & Directions
Take x19, Mattapoisett, of Route 195. Continue south on North Street, across Route 6, to the water. Turn left onto Water Street. At the 4-way intersection, go straight. You are now on Ned's Point Road which ends at the parking lot. Drive slowly down this road to foster continued goodwill with local residents.
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Sensor Notes
The sensor is located about 200 yards to the left of the launch site. Readings are true for the launch, but note that the launch is in protected waters. As you sail out of Mattapoisett Harbor, you'll encounter the stronger winds reported by West Falmouth.
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