Surf California: Top 5 Beginner Surfing Spots: Cowell’s
August 25th, 2008If you want to learn how to surf California is a great place to get started. While experienced surfers may prefer more remote locations, California has the biggest surfing culture around with plenty of people to get you on your feet- and on to your surfboard.
Today we’re going to sunny Santa Cruz. There are a few beaches here that are excellent for beginners. And after you dry off you can go visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum nearby for inspiration. I don’t really like museums. I usually just walk through them, so let’s get on to the surfing stuff.
Cowell’s beach is nearly everything you could want in a beginner’s beach. It’s got really soft, mellow waves. It’s got a nice sandy bottom. It’s really easy to get to, and the area is pretty safe.
The only issue is all the people. On weekends there are loads. Fortunately for beginners this doesn’t matter too much- you’re going to be falling off your board most of the time. For advanced surfers though this beach will get annoying- too many people and not enough action. Unless you like the challenge of working your way through a maze of people.
In the summer this is a haven for novice surfers. It has long, gradual waves and a friendly atmosphere. At some beaches you’ll get douchebags. Cowell’s beach though is a family place, full of beginners who probably suck at surfing just as much as you. There’s something very bonding about learning with people who are as bad as you, so you may find yourself making surfing buddies down at Cowell’s.
It’s near impossible not to meet people here- even on weekdays it can be crowded. Cowell’s is a great place to get on your feet before you explore where to surf California for real. Santa Cruz is a nice, fun town, so head down during the week if you can and hit the waves. If you can handle the crowds, you won’t regret it.
