r/surfing

Surfed 204s in San Clemente around 6:20 a.m. this morning, and the current was pretty strong. Got caught inside on a big set, went over the falls, and ended up snapping my board. Getting back to shore was a struggle with the current.

There was a ton of water moving out there. Definitely a good reminder not to underestimate the ocean.

Stay safe out there, everyone!

I live in a region that is a destination for windsurfing. Usually they surf big open beach breaks by themselves, but they will also surf this one popular reef breaks when conditions allow.

Usually, there is never a problem. The windsurfers are only out when it’s cross-shore blown out garbage and the surfers only want clean conditions. However, today was both clean enough and windy enough to bring both surfers and wind surfers to the the reef break.

The windsurfers can get into the waves long before they break and they can easily get back to the peak before another set comes through. It was a masterclass in back paddling.

Taking every set wave not withstanding, what struck me most was the danger they imposed on the surfers. These guys can generate so much speed with their sails and they surf in the pocket through the lineup just like a short boarder would. They’re like a cross between jet skis and SUPs that can do airs. I saw a few near collisions with surfers that were genuinely terrifying. Arguing and cussing ensued.

Is this a common problem elsewhere in the world? What’s the general protocol, if there even is one?