I need some help deciding on a sport & equipment to acquire....
I have finally moved near the Ocean (Southeast FL) and find that surfing & SUP is blown out by onshore winds a high percentage of the time. Like 15-20mph all day during the last few weeks, and looks like this lasts Oct-Apr. Not to worry.....I've always wanted to get into sailing with a Hobie or a Day Sailer for starters (did one summer with dinghies in Long Island Sound).
However - I now realize the most fun might be had with a windsurfer or the like. I live 0.5 miles from the intracoastal (I walk my SUP), and 1 mile from the beach. Accessibility & ease of engaging with something is a huge factor in how often you will do it - sailing is much more expensive and onerous (not to say it's not worth it, just much more time consuming). I can conceivably go windsurfing before and after work...sailing, not so much.
I grew up with watching my brothers windsurf on beach vacations, and was told "one day when you're older". Then we moved and 'when you're older' became 25 years later. Now it's time...but, everything has changed!
I see a lot of people kitesurfing further south by Miami. I see the new inflatable sails. I see hydrofoils. Is straight up windsurfing a thing of the past? Is it outdated for some reason? (Same as when I was paragliding a lot, hang-gliders were a pain in the ass to assemble, truck back up, etc.).
So what should I consider in getting gear (and lessons)....pros and cons of wind vs kite vs something else I don't even know?
Have you decided to windsurf and have already bought a board and sail? It remains to find a suitable trapezoid that will make skiing truly comfortable. For beginners, I recommend going to https://easy-surfshop.com/do/cat/Kitesurf/KITESURF. The equipment is of very high quality. Verified by personal experience