Surf Play and staying upright with Wave Practice

Your 2025 Liability Waiver must be on file and dues paid to be moved to "going" list. Metup message Ken N for waiver information.

Meetup 9:30 am, on the water by 10 am
Address: Corner of Coronado St and Cabrillo Highway 1,
El Granada
Limited number of paddlers: 6

Hard side kayaks with spray skirts only, secure hatch covers or float bags
Minimum boat length 12 ft.

Waves are common in SF Bay, so let’s practice bracing into a wave to stay upright. The best place to practice is “where there are waves.” After you learn how to “moon the beach” you can practice going in and out of the surf line. This is not a paddle going anywhere; just practice at the beach. We normally practice about 2 hours, then are exhausted and it is time to quit. Too soon to predict wave height, but 2 ft is normal.

A 3 or 5 mil wetsuit is suitable or drysuit if you prefer. Bring wheels. Sit in kayaks must have a spray skirt. A helmet is recommended.
Directions: Best address is the intersection of Coronado St. and Cabrillo Highway 1. Check this out on Google Earth. At the intersection is a stair leading down to the beach.

Best parking is right along the highway close to the stair. If you do not find parking along the highway, there is a surfer’s parking lot about 200 feet north of the intersection.

Best access to the parking lot is turn on Coronado St, then turn on Obispo and drive to the parking lot. Review Google earth for location.

PLEASE READ THIS: The organizers of this trip are not experts, not professional paddlers and do not necessarily have safety training or carry any safety equipment. Each paddler must have the training, experience and equipment required to complete this paddle safely, and must assume all personal risks. A Coast Guard approved life jacket or Personal Flotation Device must be worn by everyone while on the water.

Rain or intense winds may cancel. Be sure to check your email for updates and information regarding this trip.

This trip is sponsored by MARIN CANOE AND KAYAK CLUB

Here are a few YouTube videos, to help you get started:
How to Launch in the surf zone
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_JUMbMppNA

Understanding boat dynamics, how a wave affects a kayak (Very good to watch)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gH_CQR4jMo4

Using the Low Brace to prevent capsizing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5uZhrUJbYQ