September 2018

Sep 23, 2018

The Best Surfer in the Sea is the One Who…

Whether you are a first-timer or a lifetime surfer, a weekend warrior or an everyday surfer, an all-fun easy breezy surfer or on the world tour professional path, the best surfer in the water is the one who never forgets what surfing is really all about.

So, what is surfing really about?

Surf in Playa Grande, Costa Rica — This is what surfing is all about! | © Ryan Smith

We’ve all likely been in the water with someone who is aggressive, feels entitled, is ego-driven and all and all just disrupts the peace and bliss that most of us seek when we are surfing. There’s a least one at every break, whether it’s a local or a bad-attitude visitor. It is these types of surfers that bring the question ‘why do we surf’ to the surface.

Is surfing about catching every single wave that comes your way no matter what and at the expense of the safety of others? Is surfing about puffing up your chest and letting everyone know that they better get out of your way because these waves belong to you? Is surfing about proving something?

No. It’s not.

We surf because we love the ocean. We love the sacred connection we’ve formed with the sea by spending hours, days, and years out in it. We love the way that the waves undulate underneath us. We love the way the waves roll off our backs when we duck dive. We love the camaraderie and the solitude that surfing gives us. We love the challenge. We love the barrels, the set waves and the chance to dance.

We love surfing because it forces us to be present-minded, in tune with the ocean, and respectful and in-awe of the forces of nature. We love that sun-saturated, salty, noodle-arm, perma-smile feeling that a long dreamy session induces. There is no better beer, burrito or nap than a beer, burrito, or nap that follows a surf. For those of us who get it, there is no other way.

It seems that everyone wants to surf these days, and who could hardly blame them. But it is important though that we remember the rules of the game, the safety precautions of playing in the ocean, and what it is that inspired us to paddle out in the first place. If you want to be the best surfer in the sea, remember why it is that you surf and stay true to the true spirit of surfing.

Sep 9, 2018

A Guide to Surf Safety: Marine Life, Surf Equipment, and Other Surfers

You’ve learned all about ocean currents, tides, and the sun as they relate to safety and the sport of surfing in the previous post of this two-part comprehensive surf safety guide. Now we would like to share with you some safety information and tips relating to marine life, surf equipment, and other surfers.

The more you know, the safer you will be out in the sea.

Marine Life

Costa Rica has a thriving marine ecosystem. When you enter the ocean, you are entering the territory of hundreds of different species of animals. It is important that you respect the ocean and those who call it home.

While most marine wildlife interactions are completely harmless and pose no real danger, it is important to know the potential hazards.

Sea turtles in Playa Grande — Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles! | © Pavel Kirillov/Flickr

Jellyfish and sea lice

Small jellyfish and sea lice are not uncommon, especially when cool underwater currents flush sea life to the surface. Getting stung by a jellyfish or sea lice while surfing in Playa Grande isn’t a life or death type of situation, but it can be uncomfortable.

Typically, the stinging sensation dissipates within a few minutes. If you find that you are getting stung a lot, it is probably a good idea to get out of the water to avoid being very itchy later.

Stingrays

Stingrays are very common in Costa Rica. These relatives of the shark are graceful and harmless unless you accidentally step on one. The best way to avoid this unfortunate and very painful accident is to shuffle your feet when you are walking in the shallows. Shuffling your feet will alert the stingrays of your approach and give them time to swim away.

Surf safety in Costa Rica — Shuffle those feet to keep your feet safe | © lissa1313/Flickr

Sharks and crocodiles

Shark and crocodile sightings are very uncommon, however, the estuary that separates Playa Grande from Tamarindo has a very healthy population of crocodiles and they do from time to time like to swim out to sea. It is best to avoid surfing or swimming near the estuary.

As far as sharks go, if you see one, just calmly exit the water. You are not on their menu, but it is better just to play it safe. It is also a good idea to avoid surfing or swimming when you see large congregations of small fish in the shallows. This happens throughout the year and these “bait balls” or large schools of fish do attract larger predators.

Stay safe in Costa Rica — Keep your safe distance | © Giorgio Montersino/Flickr

Surf Equipment

Always check your equipment before you go surfing. Make sure that your leash isn’t compromised in any way. Check to make sure there aren’t any dings, cracks, or breaks in your board and that your fins and track pad are securely in place.

Surf safety in Playa Grande — Be safe and check your gear | © Gustavo Veríssimo/Flickr

Other Surfers

Surfing is a sport that requires your utmost attention, awareness, and present mindedness. Always look in front of you, behind you, and to your left and right before you drop into a wave. When you are surfing around a lot of other people it is your job to make sure that you don’t put yourself or anyone else in harm’s way by being reckless.

Respect your surfing ability, know your place in the line-up, wait your turn, and follow the rules. There are enough waves for everyone. It is not worth risking an injury or damaged surfboard because you think the wave on the horizon is the last wave that will ever roll through.

Safety in Costa Rica — Seize the surf | © Fotografía de Javier/Flickr

Above all, trust your instincts and listen to your inner intuition. Don’t put yourself in obviously dangerous situations, such as trying to surf when the waves are above your ability, the currents are too strong, when the ocean is blooming with sea lice, or when it feels sharky or a bit sketchy.

Now, grab your board, paddle out, have fun, and be safe!

More Details