Surfer’s Survival Guide: When Santa Monica’s Waves Turn Toxic
Fires, Ash, and the Ocean’s Health
Lately, the ocean’s facing another threat: ash and debris from the wildfires tearing through Los Angeles. Fires like the current LA blazes are dumping particles into rivers and storm drains that eventually make their way to the coastline. This fire-related runoff can carry toxic materials, turning your local break into a hazardous zone. Surfers love to push limits, but this isn’t the time to take risks. Knowing what’s in the water before you paddle out is more crucial than ever.
Is It Safe To Surf After A Fire?
Another major reason to avoid surfing after a fire is the contamination of ocean water. Wildfires leave behind ash composed of everything consumed by the flames—plants, homes, plastics, and more. This ash washes into the ocean, filling the water with harmful particles. Surfing through or swallowing this water can expose you to toxins that irritate your mouth, eyes, and ears. To stay safe, wait at least two full tide cycles after the fire has been extinguished. This allows the ocean to naturally dilute and flush out much of the debris and toxins—a rule of thumb similar to avoiding the ocean after heavy rain.
How to Stay Toasty Surfing This Winter:
What size wetsuit do I need for surfing winter in Los Angeles, California. A curated list of surfing gear for the Los Angeles fall and winter season.
Best wetsuits; Winter Surfing Los Angeles
What is the best wetsuit to wear during winter while surfing in Los Angeles, California? This quick guide will answer simply all your questions about staying warm during winter surf lessons.
Does Santa Monica Beach Have Rip Currents?
Yes, Santa Monica Beach occasionally has rip currents, however, the mellow nature of the waves, lack of obstacles like rocks and trenches, abundance of lifeguards, and shallow sandy ocean floor make it one of the more tame Southern California beaches you can visit.
Why Professional Surf Lessons Are a Must:
Surf etiquette isn’t something you pick up overnight, and the finer points often go unnoticed by those learning on their own. A professional lesson dives into the crucial dos and don’ts of the surf culture—like knowing who has the right of way and understanding the rotation of the lineup. Mastering this surf code will not only make your sessions more enjoyable but will earn you respect among your fellow surfers.
July 4th Parking @ Santa Monica; 2024
Where is the best place to park and watch fireworks at Santa Monica Beach for 4th Of July weekend in Los Angeles, CA? Find out local parking areas and avoid the crowds while paying the cheapest rates. You can even sign up for a group surf lesson with Calibunga Surf Lessons.
Are Stingrays Poisonous?
Are stingrays poisonous? Click here for a simple response of what to do when you get stung by a stingray.
The three best surfing leashes.
Are some surfboard leashes better than others? What’s the difference between brands and sizes, and is a more expensive surfing leash actually worth the money? We have broken down the three best surf leashes on the market today by comfort and safety.
Does Keanu Reeves Really Know How to Surf?
Keanu's surfing journey began with intense training before the filming of "Point Break." Determined to authentically portray his character, Reeves dedicated himself to learning the sport. His surfing lessons were provided by professional surfer and stunt coordinator Dennis Jarvis, who coached him rigorously to ensure he could perform the demanding surfing scenes in the movie.