The sand was grey, the sky was foggy, and the water was cold, however, after not having surfed for a month Linda Mar was paradise. The waves were consistent, powerful and the break is only 15 minutes from our loft in downtown San Francisco. As a beginner, what more can you ask for?

Our first day with Adventure Out was awesome. We put on our wetsuits & booties and had about a 45 minute land lesson – then we hit the waves. Surprisingly the sensation of being cold only lasted a few minutes, and then we felt warm the rest of the session. Since the cold water was my greatest trepidation about surfing here – the next few hours were great. The only part of my body that was cold was my hands so I purchased gloves after the lesson was over.

The waves were fairly large and powerful for a bunch of beginners, but we were told there was a south swell and it was safe. I thought the waves were awesome. Some did jack up very fast and then they would close out, but it’s all part of the good time in Nor Cal.

I must say getting through the shore pound was crazy here. They actually had us walk our boards out instead of padding. At first, I thought this was a bit strange, as all my surfing up to this point had been in Oahu where they always want you on your board. I’m guessing the difference is that in Hawaii all of the surf spots are reef breaks where at LInda Mar it’s a beach break.

We spent the first hour or so in the white water, but by the end I did catch a couple of outside waves. While they all closed out – it was a lot more fun than the whitewater. I so want to learn to ride the waves at an angle, and know how to turn.

All in all I consider Linda Mar my new home break. Emily and I will be there tomorrow for the second part of our surf clinic. Can’t wait!

#10

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