Surf Spots

Carmel, California (Photo by, Margarita Whittemore)

Where Do Surfers Surf?

People can surf pretty much anywhere where a wave is present. Most surfers surf in the ocean and usually in spots that are considered safe. Safe spots don’t include reefs and rocks that could possibly hurt them. Safe spots also don’t include riptides. Riptides are “a strong current caused by tidal flow in confined areas such as inlets and presenting a hazard to swimmers and boaters” ( Google Definition ).

riptide

Riptide

Surfers also choose locations based on current weather conditions; avoiding spots that are effected by harsh weather. Surfers take into consideration the height of swells. If one is not a very advanced surfer, they may choose a location with smaller waves. If one is more advanced, they may choose bigger swells. Advanced surfers sometimes enjoy picking spots with possible obstacles like reefs, rocks, and riptides. Advanced surfers sometimes also choose spots which require a great deal of knowledge and agility to reach.

Local surfers or ones who surf a lot typically are found on hidden or more exclusive surf spots. Beginners are either found on local beaches due to needing a class and or instructional help. Beginners also tend to be attracted to local beaches for safety and tourism.

A new trend is for people to surf on man made waves. There are millions wave pools that people can visit everyday. Wave pools can be found indoors or out.

wavepool

Wave Pool

Professional surfer Kelly Slater has his own Surf Ranch which he built in 2015. His wave pool provides the perfect wave for forty five seconds. This is exclusive and only close friends of his surf here. There is also the opportunity for one to win a trip to surf there through a raffle.

kswave