Visual History

ImageConstruction of the windsurfing beach at Sailboard Park
DateBetween August 1986 and May 1989 (estimated)
PerspectiveFacing West


During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bingen Point was a popular spot for windsurfing. The Port spent $35,000 to create a beach access point, but its location on the inside of a bend in the Columbia River exposed it to currents that scoured away any exposed soil or sand. This, combined with changes to the water level in the Bonneville Pool, made it increasingly difficult to maintain the beach and it was ultimately reclaimed by the river (though the access points to the river remain). Eventually, other locations such as "Doug's Beach", "Swell City", and "The Hook" became more popular.

Photograph showing construction of the windsurfing beach at Bingen Point