The Undiscovered Surfing Spots in Latin America That Are Worth Visiting

Posted by Guest on Mar 10, 2012 in Surfing, Surfing Vacation | 0 comments

With summertime just around the corner, more and more people the world over are planning beach trips with family and friends. Aside from swimming and beach volleyball, surfing remains as one of the most popular summertime sports that millions of people engage in year after year. Yet, serious surfers often wish for secluded spots where they can perfect their craft, without becoming sources of entertainment to onlookers and beach bums. However, looking for an isolated spot with ample waves for surfing can be quite difficult especially for the rookie surfer. This article provides the reader with a partial list of some of the most underrated surfing spots in Latin America that are worth visiting, especially this coming summer.

One such area is the breathtaking Choco Pacific, located in the country of Colombia. Because El Choco is one of the most underprivileged areas in Colombia, it offers a deserted beach that is ideal for surfers who want a quiet beach coupled with amazing wave breaks where they can surf to their heart’s content. Some locals also offer surf lessons for a very reasonable fee.

Another top surfing spot in Latin America is located in the small rustic town of Itacare in Brazil. This particular beach boasts of huge waves that are ideal for experienced surfers who want a challenge. Pico Loro, Nuqui, Colombia is another secluded surfing spot that you might want to consider. The area’s quiet beach and exceptional wave breaks are definitely ideal for surfers who want to surf without any interruptions.

Take time to do your research, like what you’d normally do when looking for a good holiday car hire service, to allow you to find the perfect surfing destination for your next trip.

Selecting The Best Wetsuit – A Guide to Surfers

Posted by Guest on Feb 29, 2012 in Surfing Wetsuit | 0 comments

Surfing has become one of the most popular water sports all around the world. The magnificent waves of the ocean, the sturdy surfboard, the highly-skilled individual and the proper surfing attire all add up to make a unique and unforgettable surfing experience. Wetsuit, the uniform of surfers, is an insulated gear made of neoprene and it provides warmth and protection to the wearers.

Just as there are various types of womens clothing, wetsuits available in the market today also come in various types and styles. To choose which one suits you, check out the following list:

1. Wetsuit top - made of thin neoprene which covers the torso and the arms, this can have long or short sleeves.
2. Rashguard - considered as the lightest piece of clothing for water sports. Made of lycra and used for protection against rashes and the sun.
3. Wetsuit vest - similar to the wetsuit top although slightly thicker and without the sleeves.
4. Spring wetsuit - has either long legs or long sleeves.
5. Short john suit - summer wetsuit that is a cross between the long john and the short wetsuit. This sleeveless wetsuit also has short legs.
6. Shorty wetsuit - covers the body and upper parts of the arms and legs.
7. Long john wetsuit - a spring wetsuit that covers the body and legs but do not come with sleeves.
8. Full suit- this wetsuit covers the entire body, arms and legs.

Planning A Surf Vacation

Posted by Guest on Feb 12, 2012 in Featured, Surfing Vacation | 0 comments

Indeed, a great surfing trip is something that any surfer definitely looks forward to. But although there are tons of popular surfing destinations that you can visit, nothing can compare to the excitement provided by venturing out to a surf vacation at an unknown location. Surf enthusiasts are willing to travel the world in search for the biggest swells. But before you book a flight on your next surfing destination, it is best to plan your surfing vacation properly to ensure that you won’t be wasting time and money.

Just like with any other types of vacation, careful planning will certainly come a long way to guarantee that you will make the most out of your upcoming surfing trip.

Above anything else, it is imperative that you first decide where you want to go. This is basically the first task that you have to accomplish. At this point, you should have an idea where you intend to spend your next surfing vacation. To help you make a sound travel decision, make sure to ask yourself the following questions:

• How long are you planning to stay on your next surfing vacation?
• How much is your budget and how much are you willing to spend for your surfing trip?
• Do you only intend to surf or you are looking forward to engaging in other activities as well?
• How can you reach your surfing destination? What are the safety hazards in the area?
• What kinds of waves are you looking for?
• When do big swells usually occur in the area? And when is the best time to travel?

Once you have finally set your eyes on a particular surfing hotspot, the next thing that you should worry about are the items that you should bring with your during your trip. Aside from your surfboard, you should also bring other important surfing gears particularly when you are travelling to a remote surfing location where surf shops do not exist. It is smart to bring towels, sunscreen, wax, ding repair kit, two surfboard leashes, and of course, your wetsuit. To avoid additional baggage charges and the hassle of carrying your own surfboard, consider renting the board on location. If surfboard rental is available, then it totally makes more sense to leave your board and just rent one when you reach your destination. You can actually save more when you rent the board on-site rather than bringing your own board, which will incur additional baggage charges.

Before your actual surfing trip, it is smart to research about the place where you will be heading. Doing so will allow you to make the most out of your surfing vacation. Know what kind of swells, tide, and wind exist in the area? In case, there is not much information listed about your next surfing destination, you can ask friends or local surfers who have visited the area to give you a lowdown on what to expect.

Always expect the unexpected and be prepared with unforeseen obstacles that might come your way during your surfing vacation. While it is highly recommended that you make the most out of any given situation, remember to always put safety on top of your priority list.

Care And Maintenance Of Your Surf Gear

Posted by Guest on Jan 29, 2012 in Featured, Surf Gear Maintenance | 0 comments

The importance of caring and maintaining your surf gear at its top state can never be emphasized enough. Indeed, surfing is an exciting and exhilarating sport that is known to offer the best water experience. But the only way to maximize the experience is by ensuring that your surfing gear is at its top working condition. That being said, it is critical that you know how to properly and effectively care for your surfboard, which is the most essential gear in your surfing arsenal. Without a good and well-maintained surfboard, you won’t be able to ride and enjoy the waves. Therefore, keep n mind that caring for your surfboard is just as important as learning how to ride the wave for the first time. So to help you maintain your surfboard in good condition, here are some great tips that you can follow.

Remember to always bag your surfboard after each use. Make it a habit to bag your surfboard when it is not in use. The number one reason of a surfboard’s demise is the dings or chips that it incurs during transport. 50% of the scratches and dents found on your surfboard occurred while you are transporting it to and fro the beach. Therefore to lessen the likeliness of getting dings and scratches on your precious surfboard, then you should keep it inside its bag at all times. The bag will not only enforce additional protection to your stick but will also allow it to maintain its great visual appearance longer.

Secure your surfboard by considering installing a surfboard rack. Proper storage of your surfboard is paramount to prevent it from incurring damages. Remember that a gust of wind or a curious toddler can easily knock down your surfboard if you just haphazardly leave it at an upright position. In addition to that, it can pose safety risk to inquisitive toddlers or young kids running around the house. The surfboard may accidentally fall over them when they unknowingly knock it over while they are playing. So, to prevent your surfboard from getting damaged it would be best to secure it on the wall with the aid of L-brackets. Hanging your board securely is definitely the best way to store it.

Be a protective parent and give care to your surfboard like what you will do with your baby. Avoid exposing your surfboard to harsh weather elements as these can greatly accelerate the surfboard’s wear and tear. Knowing this, it is paramount that you store your surfboard at a shaded and cool area. Do not leave it on top of your car since too much sun exposure can cause the board’s paint to flake. Too much sun exposure can weaken the fibreglass coating of your surfboard and will also cause major yellowing, which is not a pleasant sight.

By following the aforementioned caring tips, you are sure to prolong the life of your most prized surf gear – your surfboard – and enjoy years of great service from it.

Guide In Buying Your First Surfboard

Posted by Guest on Jan 29, 2012 in Shopping Guide | 0 comments

As a novice surfer, you might be wondering what you should look for in buying your first ever surfboard. Like there are different policies available from Sovereign Insurance, there are also lots of options available for surfing boards. You can purchase one form the Internet, from the local surfboard store, or have one personalized. If you want a customized surfboard, you could always ask for a shaper’s professional help. Since you might not have a detailed idea regarding the nitty gritty details of a surfboard, you just need to let your shaper know what length and type of surfboard you wish to have. It would also help a lot if you would be honest about your weight and surfing abilities. This would help him concoct the perfect surfboard for you.

Another way to find your first board is by taking a trip down at the local surf shop. There are several things to consider when purchasing a board from a surf store. You must check for any imperfections, remember that new surfboards must be in tiptop condition. Take time to have a little chat with the staff at the store to get vital information regarding the surfboard that you have your heart set on.  Just what you would do when finding affordable life insurance policies, you should try to haggle a little bit on the price of the board. Some surf stores tend to give discounted rates, and you might just be lucky enough.

Popular Destinations For Surfing Around The World

Posted by Guest on Jan 12, 2012 in Featured, Surfing Destinations | 0 comments

Learning new things and exploring the world are perhaps the popular pursuits that everyone, regardless of age, would want to experience. Surfing is an activity that allows one to try out something fun and exciting while at the same time gives them the opportunity to travel the world. While most people go on vacation to relax and know more about different cultures, surfing enthusiasts tour the world in order to find the best surfing spots. Surfing basically offers surfers the opportunity to conquer big and imposing waves, giving them the adrenalin rush they are craving for.

If you are a true blue surfer, you definitely know the best places to catch the biggest waves in the planet. But for those who do not have any idea where to find the top surfing destinations in the world, here are some of the popular surfing spots frequented by both amateur and professional surfers alike. (Note: The surfing spots listed below are not arranged in any particular order).

Gold Coast, Australia

Any surfing enthusiast knows that Gold Coast in Australia houses the best beaches and great waves, making it an ideal location for surfing. Located in the south-eastern part of Queensland, Gold Coast City boasts of excellent surfing beaches, canal systems and a sunny subtropical climate. Dubbed as one of the world’s best surfing destinations, this city has been recognized as a surfer’s paradise for decades now.  Better than being stuck in phlebotomy training classes.  Gold Coast City is well-recognized for the quality of waves found in its beaches, which remain to be unmatched until now. Though there are a lot of new surfing hotspots that sprung up over the years, Gold Coast never fail to excite and attract surfers from around the world.

North Shore, Oahu Island (Hawaii)

Recognized as the top surfing destination in the US, North Shore, found in Oahu Island in Hawaii, is also considered as the best surfing location in the world. Like Gold Coast in Australia, North Shore also tops the list of surfers. Even seasoned surfers come to North Shore to experience its exciting and enthralling waves. With North Shore’s high-quality waves, it has become a sought after surfing spot of world-class and world-renowned surfers.

Mentawai Islands, Indonesia

Found right off Sumatra’s western coast in Indonesia, Mentawai Islands boasts of over seventy wave-rich chains of islets and islands, making it a consistent surfing destination among seasoned and amateur surfers. It features four main islands – South Pagi, Sipora, North Pagi and Siberut – which block big swells from reaching the shore of Sumatra. Mentawai Islands have become a hotspot for serious wave hunters who want to have a taste of the greatest surfing experience in the world. The islands are only accessed by riding charter boats and ferries. If you are looking forward to ride the biggest waves, then you should schedule your surfing trip to Mentawai Islands anywhere from March to October. The biggest swells are expected to occur from June to September.

Jeffreys Bay ‘J-Bay’, South Africa

Found in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, J-Bay is a very famous surfing destination that has also been featured in a number of surfing movies. Jeffreys Bay is famous for its blue flag beach, and it is also home to the popular annual surfing competition ‘Billabong Pro’. Recognized as an international event, Billabong Pro draws millions of tourists and surfers to J-Bay every year.

Learning To Surf For Beginners

Posted by Guest on Jan 1, 2012 in Featured, Surfing | 0 comments

So you are all geared up to take pleasure from some great surfing action. But before you hit the water and set your foot on your surfboard, it is important that you learn how to surf properly first. If you are a novice surfer, there are some essential pointers to consider before you strut your stuff in the midst of the smashing waves.

Finding the Perfect Spot

One of the most essential points in having a successful surfing lesson is choosing the right spot. Opt for beaches that are not crowded. This way, you will be able to have the sea to yourself. It would be difficult to learn if you have to battle with a thick crowd of swimmers and some other surfers, especially the experienced ones, for some space. A beach with a spilling mushy break wave of 2-4 ft range is the perfect place to have that surfing lesson.

Acquiring Basic Surfing Skill

The basic skill that novice surfers must master is the art of paddling. Beginners can start paddling in small waves, and if you are already up to it, try paddling in the bigger waves. Position yourself on the area of the surfboard where there is least resistance when you are paddling. You can use a crawl stroke to initiate paddling and use your cupped hands to navigate a speedier glide.

Learning the Duck Dive

A special skill, known as duck diving, allows divers to pass under the breaking waves when the paddling ceases. When approaching a wave, a surfer must paddle as fast as he can. As a surfer is about to hit the big waves, which is approximately 2 feet, grab the edges of the surfboard. The surfer then must push his entire body weight onto his hands and arms. As you feel your nose submerged in water, push your head down, then the rest of your body would follow.

Catching the Waves

This is perhaps one of the most fun experiences that are a prologue to the standing up position. You have to use the paddling skills that you have learned to take you to the areas where there are unbroken waves. The nose of the board should face the beach as you are approaching a wave. Paddles as much as you can as the waves begin to lift your board, this will bring your weight forward to keep your momentum going. Your chest should be raised as you glide among the waves. Be sure to wait for the waves to become flat before you stand up on your board.