48 Hours in Byron Bay
Fresh from Fiji, Caleb Pont turns a Byron Bay gear run into a spontaneous two-day foil mission with Beau Blake, mixing new FLITELab testing, varied conditions and good-times sessions.
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As we go to print, the content from Hood River continues to filter in, the result of some very proactive riders, brands and photographers making the most of having so many team riders in the same place at the same time, and blessed with consistent – and consistently good – conditions. So, we figured we’d shamelessly tap into that, and get some unbiased tips for you from a few of the visiting out-of-towners: Nia Suardiaz, Finn Spencer, and the Acherer brothers, Aleks & Tom…
The Greatest Wing SpotsFinn: The Hatchery is usually my go to wing spot as you get strong wind and big swell so it’s great for jumping or riding waves. If you’re looking for spots with flatter bumps and easier riding in general, then the waterfront park or the event is great!
Aleks: For me, it’s all about The Hatch and Doug’s Beach. Both deliver epic wind and amazing waves for freestyle. On stronger days, The Hatch is unbeatable – steady wind, clean ramps, and that classic Gorge energy. When it’s a little lighter, Doug’s often blows stronger and steadier, making it the go-to spot for long sessions and perfect freestyle conditions.
Tom: For the best downwind experience, grab a shuttle up to Tunnel 4 and ride all the way down to the White Salmon Bridge. The run is long, fast, and filled with playful sections – a mix of power and flow that makes you want to do it again the moment you finish.
Finn: Yeah Tunnel 4 or 5 to the lower end of the Hatchery is a pretty insane downwind run and probably the most consistent in the Gorge. I could spend all day doing laps there as the bumps are just so perfect for carving the whole way! When Rufus turns on, it can be one of the most incredible downwind runs in the world. The river runs a bit faster through there so the bumps can get well overhead on good days. I’ve only had one good day out there but it was one of the most fun downwind runs of my life!
Aleks: Again, The Hatch and Doug’s take the win. The combination of steady wind and perfectly shaped waves creates a playground for freestyle – from Big Airs to smooth transitions, it’s as good as it gets.
Nia: I agree with Aleks. The consistent wind and steep ramps make it a freestyle paradise. Whether you’re working on new tricks or just cruising, it delivers every single time.
Nia: If you’re taking a break from the water, make sure to hike Tamanawas Falls or explore the Salmon River up to Mount Hood. The scenery is unreal – waterfalls, forests, and that signature Pacific Northwest magic.
Aleks: If you’re not on the water, head to Stevenson or the Event Site. Both give you front-row seats to all the action – riders boosting, carving, and flying past in classic Hood River style.
💎 Premium Content Ahead! 💎 *You will receive our weekly Friday Pump newsletter, plus the latest features, gear tests and giveaway announcements. Finn: There are some amazing Mexican food spots in Hood River. My favorites are El Rincon and Manny’s food truck, which is right by The Hatchery. I also spend way too much time at New York City Sub Shop, I’ve probably eaten about 50 meatball subs in various trips to Hood River over the years. Tom: Refueling in Hood River is part of the experience. Lilo’s Hawaiian BBQ hits the spot with big portions and local flavor, Twin Peaks is perfect for a casual dinner with friends, and Milo’s burritos are an absolute must after a long session. You really can’t go wrong with any of them. Nia: A few key things: Don’t get a parking ticket, and if you can, rent a car – getting around without one is tough. If it’s a no-wind day, head to the dock for a pump foil session. Eating out can get pricey, so plan a mix of local favorites and easy meals. And whatever you do, don’t miss Mike’s Ice Cream Shop in town – it’s a Hood River classic. Finn: Explore as much as possible and try to connect with the local community. Everyone there is super welcoming and just super stoked to get on the water. Especially if you’re doing lots of downwind runs it always helps to offer the local crew a lift up to the start whenever you can. It can get pretty hectic out on the water on busy days so you want to try to be as respectful as possible and give other riders plenty of space. Tom: Bring everything – wind conditions can shift fast, and Hood River offers every discipline in one place. Whether you’re into winging, downwind, prone, or freestyle, you’ll find a spot that fits. Stay open-minded and ready to adapt. Aleks: Check the wind early, bring extra gear, and don’t skip the downwind runs – they’re what make Hood River legendary. Be ready for changing conditions and a lot of water time. Finn: My perfect Hood River day would be some morning pickleball (which may include getting destroyed by some people in their 60s) then to Bette’s diner for some pancakes and maybe a gigantic cinnamon bun. Next I would head over to The Hatchery and do some parawing laps with the local crew until my legs fall off. Once I can barely walk anymore from doing hundreds of turns all day I’ll head back to town and grab a burrito from one of the many spots and then off to bed to do it all again tomorrow! Tom: Wake up around 10am, grab a bite at Betty’s or Lilo’s, then check the wind and head to The Hatch. Depending on the conditions, go for a powered wing session or a downwind run. Refuel with a burrito, squeeze in one more session before sunset, then wrap up the day with dinner at Twin Peaks. Fall asleep tired, happy. Aleks: Sleep in a bit, grab breakfast at Betty’s, then head to The Hatch around noon for a couple of freestyle sessions. Refuel with lunch at El Rincón, squeeze in some parawing downwinds in the afternoon, and wrap it up with dinner at Lilo’s. Nia: Start the morning with Pickleball and a healthy breakfast, then hit The Hatch for a wing session. In the afternoon, grab a few friends for a downwind run, followed by a sunset pump foil session. End the day with a good dinner, music, and some chill time with your crew – just the way it should be.
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Tastiest Post-Session Food SpotsTips for the first timers
The perfect Hood River day looks like…
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