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Lopez Lake Overview
For central and southern California sailors looking for lake sailing, Lake Lopez has it all. The weather is warm and sunny and the water is a welcome respite from the cold coastal waters. Add the frequent thermal winds and excellent camping and you have the basic ingredients for great sailing.
The weather conditions likely to produce winds at Lopez are classic. If the fog moves over the coast shutting down coast and the valley is warm, the lake is likely to blow. The lake is steadily gaining in popularity and weekends can coax over 100 sailors onto the water. Although the lake only covers 950 acres it is packed with sailing and recreation opportunities.
The front gates to Lopez Lake are located 10 miles off Highway 101 near the town of Arroyo Grande. Because of its proximity to the ocean it receives good westerly winds.
There is no shortage of recreational opportunities at Lake Lopez. The kids will enjoy the two giant water slides. If the wind is tardy, you can rent canoes, ski boats, and boats for fishing. For thrills there is the giant 600' water slide and for exercise there is swimming and miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. For the fishermen in the family there trout, catfish, and other pan fish.
For those seeking more tranquil experiences there are hot spas located near the waterslide area, and they are included in the cost for the waterslides. Camping facilities are extensive and are located in oak shaded lakeside facilities. There are 148 primitive sites for tents and over 200 sites with hookups for RVs. Camping reservations for weekends must be made well in advance however. Weekday camping is usually available. Bait and tackle, snacks, gasoline, and a Laundromat are available nearby.
Wind sensor reads way high (+3). 20 at lopez means 17 and a 6.5 or larger sail.
As of March 28, 2009....No Kiting
Wind forecasting is based on projected temperature differential between Paso Robles and Arroyo Grande. A 20 degree temperature diffence means 6.5 sail. A 30 degree temperature differnce means 5.0 or smaller.
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Regional Directory
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Shops,
Schools,
Clubs,
Events,
Food,
Lodging,
More,
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| Season: |
Spring, summer, and fall |
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| Water: |
warm in summer |
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| Ability Level: |
Beginner to intermediate + freestyle |
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| Wetsuit: |
yes unless you never fall in, air is often 70 oF |
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| Familiness: |
Lots to do! |
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| Parking: |
It is a zoo |
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| Launch: |
Sand to mud |
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Maps & Directions
Go to the town of Arroyo Grande near Pismo Beach on Hwy 101. Then go northeast Hwy 227 to Lopez Drive. It's 10 miles to the front gates at Lopez Lake. Continue on Lopez Drive and follow the signs to the lake.
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Sensor Notes
This sensor is a solar powered, wireless installation that's got a great fetch and should therefore give a very accurate representation of wind conditions on the water
Sensor reads way high (+3). Pay particular attention to direction. Anything other than WSW is very gusty
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