ABOUT THE SURF ZONE CLASS

Goals: Introduce surf zone dynamics, group communication and safety, swimming in surf, launching and landing a sea kayak under control, bracing in breaking waves, and basic kayak surfing techniques.

Prerequisites: Sea Kayaking II, or equivalent experience (extensive practice with boat lean, braces and rescues; recent paddling experience).
Duration of class: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Time on water: Approximately 5 hours
Location: Meet at CCK in Half Moon Bay (Pillar Point Harbor), paddle to "Surfers' Beach" south of the jetty.

NOTE: Surf zone classes can be subject to last minute (on the day of the event) cancellation due to weather, high surf, wind, or other safety considerations. Please be aware that we cannot always predict such conditions in advance.

This class will focus on how to read the surf, how to handle breaking waves, and how to launch and land in the surf zone safely. Upon arriving, the instructor will give an overview of the class and discuss some key safety issues. Then, after a brief review of boat lean and bracing techniques in the harbor, we will paddle about 1 mile to El Granada Beach where the surf zone instruction takes place. This beach usually features an easy surf zone with small waves, ideal for learning basic surf zone technique. If the waves are too large, the class WILL BE CANCELED and you can reschedule for the next available surf zone class. (Please be prepared for this possibility; we can't always predict for sure what the conditions will be until the morning of the class.)

When we land at the beach, you'll do your first surf landing with help and signaling from your instructors. After a short discussion on surf zone anatomy (the soup, impact zone, etc.) we'll work on the following skills (instructors will demonstrate each skill first):

HOLDING POSITION IN THE SOUP
BROACHING (side-surfing while leaning/bracing into waves)
LAUNCHING (punching waves, timing)
LANDING (on top of wave; surf & broach)

These skills will be practiced first in the soup zone, then you'll progress to the impact zone where waves are breaking (remember, these will be small waves). We have plenty of opportunity to take a break between sessions on the water, with the beach providing a convenient resting-place. Everyone gets wet, and you'll do some swimming, but that is all part of the learning process! During the lunch break, there is detailed discussion of launching and landing techniques. Then, back on the water the instructors will give you individual feedback while you work on launching and surfing back in.

Finally, we'll paddle back to the harbor (save some energy for this!), rinse the gear, and debrief.

The Surf Zone Class will introduce you to valuable skills that are essential for paddling on the exposed coast and very useful for rough water paddling anywhere. Once you achieve some proficiency in the surf, you'll find that it is more fun than you ever imagined.

Keep in mind this is an INTRODUCTION to surf zone skills; to become fully competent in the surf requires additional time and practice beyond the class. Many paddlers find it useful to take this course more than once.

© CCK, 2/02

EQUIPMENT:
CCK provides all kayak equipment, including wet suit, paddle jacket and US Coast Guard approved Personal Floatation Device (PFD), spray skirt, paddle, helmet, and kayak. You will need to provide some personal items for the class; the links below will take you to our on-line store, Purepaddlesports.com. For assistance with on-line purchases, call us toll-free: (888) 452-9257.

You will need to bring:
* IMPORTANT! One or two long sleeve shirts of "polar fleece", or other polyester fabric; wool is OK. No cotton, please!
Purchase a Thermal Top now!

* A swimsuit to wear under your wetsuit.
Purchase Paddler's Shorts now!
Shop for a Paddler's Wetsuit or Drysuit

* Footwear that can get wet, e.g., wet suit booties, lightweight sneakers (not too bulky).
Purchase Wet Suit Booties now!

* Billed cap or hat for shade or warmth; wool hat for winter class.
* Light-weight gloves, for warmth and blister prevention. Purchase Paddling Gloves, and a Paddling Hat, or Hood to fit under your helmet now!

Shop for a Kayaking Helmet!

* Snacks and lunch (in a zip-loc bag, preferably; we will transport in kayaks)
Purchase a Dry Bag for carrying food and clothing now!

* Eye/sunglasses and a retention device.
* 1 qt. water bottle(s)- there are drinking fountains available.
* Waterproof sunscreen for lips & face.
* Dry, warm clothes and a towel for the end of class.

MEETING TIME AND PLACE:
The class starts at 9:00AM at California Canoe & Kayak in Pillar Point Harbor. Allow 30 minutes driving time from San Francisco, 45 minutes from Oakland, and 1 hour from San Jose (depending on traffic). Pillar Point Harbor is 25 miles south of San Francisco. Our address is 214 Princeton Ave, in the quaint fishing village of Princeton-By-The-Sea. We're next door to the Half Moon Bay Yacht Club, on the beach in Pillar Point Harbor. If you are unable to attend at the last minute, or running late, please call us on site @ 650-728-1803.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS:

View California Canoe & Kayak - Pillar Point Harbor in a larger map

From North Bay cities:
Head south on Hwy. 1 from San Francisco, and pass through the towns of Pacifica, Montara and Moss Beach. Just past the San Mateo County-Half Moon Bay Airport, take the Princeton cutoff to your right; turn right at the Meza Luna Restaurant/Princeton Inn onto Prospect Road. Turn left on Broadway, then right on Princeton Ave; continue about 3 blocks to Vassar. There is plenty of free parking on Princeton Ave or Vassar. The entrance to CCK is on Vassar, at the first driveway/garage door to your left. (Look for the Half Moon Bay Yacht Club sign)

From South Bay cities:
Take Higway 92 west to Half Moon Bay. At the junction of 92 and Highway 1, turn right and head north on Hwy 1 for four miles. Turn left at the traffic light (in El Granada) onto Capistrano Road; you will see Pillar Point Harbor to the west. Turn left at the Meza Luna Restaurant/Princeton Inn onto Prospect Road; turn left on Broadway; right on Princeton Ave; continue about 3 blocks to Vassar. There is plenty of free parking on Princeton Ave or Vassar. The entrance to CCK is on Vassar, at the first driveway/garage door to your left. (Look for the Half Moon Bay Yacht Club sign)

LIABILITY RELEASE FORM INFO:
You will be required to sign a Liability Release, Express Assumption of Risk, and Indemnity Agreement at the start of your class or trip. The entire text of this legal form may be viewed on our website at Liability Release. It also can be provided to you by fax or mail upon request by calling our reservation office @ 800-366-9804.