To everyone without a surfing background that wants to get into open ocean paddling, this is for you!  Knowing where to paddle out is one of the most crucial pieces of information to an open ocean paddler.  To some this may seem like knowledge you grew up around, but many stand up paddlers begin with minimal ocean knowledge.  Ask any surfer and they will tell you that a simple survey of your launching beach will give you all the info you need to get out quickly and safely.  

There are 3 things to look for when scoping your entry into the ocean; peaks, channels, and sets.  Notice the peak of the waves, where they reach their highest point and are most likely to break.  Never paddle out where the waves are peaking!!! The channels are where the water pushed towards the beach by waves makes its way back to the ocean.  The channels are usually directly to the left or right of the waves peak zone.  The sand from the beach will usually form valleys because it will be pulled out to sea with the water.  Also, you can tell because it will be where everyone else is paddling out! Finally, if it is a bigger day and the waves are giving you some push back even in the proper area, then make sure to take not of the swell or set period and the set duration.  Paddle out shortly after a set has finished with all your might for the most effective use of the channel. BEWARE, sometimes swells are mixed/multi-directional and larger waves will sneak in between the sets.  Always check local swell forecasts for reassurance of your observations and even better check with a local, because every beach is different and these are just general guidelines to a safer paddle out and may not apply to your local beach break!

(Notice the surfers paddling out to the left and right of the wave peak zone)

« I confirm the subscription of this blog to the Paperblog service under the username suptoyou »