by Lisa Rayne

Created on: April 17, 2009

Surf's up, San Diegans! So, you know you are interested in learning to surf... but are you ready for the addiction and stoke that you are about to unfold? Learning to surf is much like learning a new language: whether it is the culture or the appeal of having a new skill that attracts one to learn, the skill and culture go hand-in-hand. Just like a Spanish student who wants to learn to tango, entering the world of surfing opens the door to a whole new world based on an amazing connection that starts as small as just wanting to give it a try.

For visitors and residents alike, learning to surf in San Diego is a regular pasttime that can happen virtually anywhere on the county's coastline. From North County in San Onofre State Beach to South County in Imperial Beach, the approximately 70-mile stretch of coast in San Diego boasts some of the best surf beaches in the country. Surfers of all skill levels can find a challenging break just right for them.

The waves of La Jolla Shores, just south of the famous Scripps Institute of Oceanography, might be one of the most accessible waves for beginners and, consequently, the most likely places to find surf lessons. Surf Diva Surf School was founded on this beach by University of California San Diego alumnae Isabelle "Izzy" Tihanyi and her twin sister, Caroline, and has blossomed into a booming business based on fun, equality, and, of course, the ultimate joy of catching waves. Also at La Jolla Shores, surfers can rent foam and fiberglass boards in the various shops surrounding the beach to have private lessons with friends or have a go on their own. Typically, the waves at this beach break measure between 0' and 6', which works wonders for learning. During a strong swell, sometimes, the big guns come out and play in larger waves. Just above the Scripps Pier at Black's Beach, the U.C. San Diego's first rate surf team can be found practicing on the wicked La Jolla submarine canyon break.

Up the coast a bit in longboarder's paradise at San Onofre State Beach, surf campers for all ages and surfers who want to chill out rule the beach all summer long. Here, the Summer Soul Surf Camp brings beginners in droves at the the main breaks of Old Man's and Dogpatch, while Endless Summer Surf Camp runs the southern breaks at the campground section of the beach known as Trails. Camps such as these are highly recommendable as an alternative vacation idea, where activities -mostly involving learning the art and culture of surfing- and meals are planned and paid for in advance. The best part of learning to surf at San Onofre, however, is the iconic imagery of classic 1960s surf culture which has been preserved by generations of surf dudes and dudettes. Outdoor showers are covered by bamboo while longboarders catch waves next to stand-up paddle boarders and kayakers. Best of all, surfers of all ages, board-sizes and types, and skill-levels hang loose and share the bliss of feeling the ultimate stoke.

No matter where one learns to surf, the amazement of feeling stoked misses no one. All ones needs is a board, waves, and a little courage and that first wave will always open the door that never wants to shut.

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