This sport is based on weather. If its windy it can be fun or dangerous. When learning with an instructor you are leaving most of the weather related issues on him/her. As you grow into this sport more an more of the good times to be had are looking at the right weather patterns. Low pressure systems are good high pressure systems are bad (no wind usually). Pre and post are what? Storms are funny and sometimes predictable. not always but sometimes. As a burst of moisture is coming in the winds start very smooth as the actual storm comes in winds can be very turbulent. Gusts are the most dangerous aspect to kiting. A small gust can be fun and a heavy winded gust can kill. Where ever you are watch what is happening with the oncoming weather and what you can hold down for size respectively. Post frontals are often times smooth and directly after a storm with nicer temps and easy flying. Also watch out for swirling air. scary stuff i've seen it on mountain lakes where the wind is coming from a certain direction but the cloud of powder coming at you looks like a tornado. One wrong move can hurt.

Gusts that are less than 5 on a base of no more then 12 steady winds begineer can handle them with an instructor.
Gusts more than 5 less than 10 on a base of 15-20 intermediate to expert
Gusts above 10 your asking for it.

Last weekend the gusts were 0-30 I was on a 16 and I just put it away and quit flying for the day.

Yeah - what he said!!

Seriously you have to respect the weather!! Safety is totally key!! The biggest weather related problem I have seen is people rigging up kites that are too big. Of course its exciting and you want to get out - but if you over-powered it can be dangerous. Also - the winds on shore may not necessarily be what is happening out on the water and you have to take into acount the gusts. Ask around and talk to people to see what is up with the wind.