BEST SURF SPOTS IN PAKISTAN

BEST SURF SPOTS IN PAKISTAN

Let this picture speak for itself...

Photo: http://www.world66.com

From French Beach all the way to Gwardar are some of Asia most beautiful and undiscovered stretches of beach.  Where the desert meets the Arabian Sea,  a multitude of water sports including scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, wind surfing, kayaking, deep sea game fishing and this regions best SURF calls. 

During monsoon season, after April till October, some of the best untouched, undiscovered surfing waters in the world await to be ridden by boards from Australia, Hawaii, the US and Indonesia.  

Right along the coast, self contained huts are available for surfing enthusiast with boards rented or carved upon request, from the local village hippy surfers but it is recommended to BYO.  You will also find 5-6 star hotels offering the best of every amenity.

Everything from freshly caught lobster, oysters and fish are at your fingertips.  You order, they catch and cook it for you - for basically next to nothing.

Surfing Pakistan's Makran Coast is probably the most chilled out, laid back surfing stretch you'll find anywhere nowadays, where tourist traps and cliches have now infiltrated the once lonely tracks of the world's surfing path, here, it is as lonely as you dreamed it to be.  

Don't worry about what the travel warnings say, they also tell you to beware when going to places like Australia and the States, so dare to be different and come for anything from 5 star accommodations to sleepy bungalows with a front veranda view of the the mystifying Arabian Sea and f*ck what everybody else says, it's bloody good surf and you deserve the ride!!!

There are several beaches in Karachi or outside Karachi main city. The famous beaches names are Hawks bay, Sands Pit, Cape Mound, Sumyani, French Beach, Gadani, Turtle beaches, Paradise Point. These beaches are best for swimming or spending night in rented villa which is avilable there but advance booking is better before arrived. The Seaview is also a beach but in the main city where mostly young boys and girls meet in daytime especially. In evening, you will mostly find families and in midnight mostly are boys.


FRENCH BEACH / HAJI ABDULLAH GOTH

Photo: http://www.world66.com

French Beach of Karachi is located half way between Hawkes Bay and Paradise Point, is a small fishing village known to the locals as Haji Abdullah Goth. Surrounded by a boundary wall, it offers 20 huts, constructed by the villagers, for rent. The village has neither running water nor electric power. Its rocky beach and clear waters are ideal for surfing during the monsoon season

Stretching from French Beach all the way to Gwardar are some of Asia most beautiful stretches of beach. Where the desert meets the Arabian Sea, 
are a multitude of water sports including scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, wind surfing, kayaking, deep sea game fishing and this regions best SURF. During monsoon season, after April till October, some of the best untouched, undiscovered surfing waters in the world await to be ridden by boards from Australia, Hawaii, the US and Indonesia.  

Self contained huts are available for surfing enthusiast with boards available from the local village hippy surfer but it is recommended to BYO.

Visitors have to bring their own equipment as well as food and drink supplies, but if you like seafood, then everything from freshly caught lobster, oysters and fish are available upon request. 
You order, they catch and cook it for you - for basically next to nothing.

BEACH VIEW PARK

Photo: http://www.world66.com

Beach View Park aka Beach Park is located in Clifton, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan. The park, constructed at Clifton beach, it was inaugurated on December 12, 2005. The park, constructed under the special supervision of Sindh Governor Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan, is part of the under-construction Grand Recreation Project. This beautiful park, spread over an area of 47 acres (190,000 m2), has been constructed along 3.7 km of the coastal driveway.

The project envisages the rehabilitation and renovation of the historic Jehangir Kothari Parade and Bagh-e-Ibne Qasim on an area of 80 acres (320,000 m2). Both these projects linked with the Beach Park. 
The development work of the Clifton beach as a recreational place was started 80 years back by Jehangir Kothari, who constructed the Jehangir Kothari Parade at a cost of PKR 0.3 million at the site of his bungalow and presented it to the citizens of Karachi as a gift.


The Beach Park project includes, construction/development of stone pillars fencing, envicrate pathways and kerb stones, fountains, grassy lawns, flower beds, trees, shrubs, physical appliances, canopies, stone and wooden benches, play areas, big size fibre glass dinosaurs, food courts, shops, dustbins, small lights, arena vision lights, light towers.


CLIFTON BEACH

Photo: http://www.world66.com

Clifton Beach was the most popular silver-sand beach during 20th century but now it is affected by an oil spill that occurred in 2003. 
Clifton Beach, on the Arabian Sea, is a beach in Clifton, Karachi, Pakistan, one of the neighborhoods of Saddar Town. The beach has attractions for families and tourists, including beachside horse and camel rides, amusement parks, restaurants, and swimming in the Arabian Sea. The whole beach area of Clifton and Seaview is considered safe and peacful even in times of political tensions. A gated residential area called Seaview Apartments lies close to a section of Clifton beach known as Seaview beach or simply "Seaview". Further ahead lies Darakhshan Villas which comprises of residential townhouses and huts. 

Another attraction in this very area were the recently constructed Cineplex cinema houses for the entertainment starved people of Karachi, particularly for the people who reside in DHA and Clifton. This has happened after around three decades of cinema industry decline in Pakistan. Hollywood films are mostly screened here along with some selected Bollywood films. The cinema's are equipped with state of the art facilities and other entertainment sections. The Defence Housing Authority is filling the beach area with sand to obtain more ground pushing the sea further back, which will change the shape and features of the beach.

Photo: http://www.world66.com

The source: http://www.world66.com/asia/southasia/pakistan/karachi/beaches/

THE HIDDEN SURF PARADISE OF NORTH KOREA

THE HIDDEN SURF PARADISE OF NORTH KOREA

Photo: http://www.peaceandsurf.com

North Korea, the world's most secretive country, has plenty of secret surf spots to discover. 

But, will it be possible to ride waves in the land of Kim Il-sung, the eternal president?

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the official name of North Korea, offers 2,495 kilometers (1,550 miles) of coastline, with the East China Sea and the Sea of Japan in the Western and Eastern coasts.
If you had the opportunity to surf waves in North Korea, you'd rather head for the Sea of Japan coast because the local sea currents circulate in the counterclockwise direction, clearly hitting the exposed coast.
From Hamhung up north to Sonbong, there are plenty of surf regions to explore. The coastline is dominated by small fishing villages, industrial complexes, jetties, endless dunes and white sand beaches.
Spots primarily exposed to North/Northeast swells have better chances of delivering perfect waves for surfing. Jungho, Pungeo, Gangsangni, Sinchang, Geonja, Iwon, Tanchon, Ilsin, Rajin are some of the names of the local train stations where you should stop to check the surf.
In Kimchaek, near a local river mouth, we've discovered a perfect A-frame wave, breathing an open swell and surrounded by mountains. This wave could easily be named the Asian Trestles. Curiously, trains travel very often close to the North Korean shore.

Photo: http://www.peaceandsurf.com

 

 On our way to the Chinese frontier, we've found a long beach near the Man's Lagoon with a strong potential for wave riding - nearly two kilometers of empty and unexplored surf and green fields as background scenario. Meet Sonbong, probably the best surf spot in North Korea.
The opposite Southwest coast offers pristine, natural, crystal-clear waters and desert islands. The Ongjin region has multiple river mouths and may be a great alternative for surfers on North Korea's East China Sea coastal shores.
 North Korea is an unexplored surfing paradise. Really. With a long and sharp coastline, it gets regular swells, at least, on the Eastern coast. The problem is that only between 3,000 to 4,000 Western tourists visit North Korea, each year.



 
In this uncrowded land, you may be the first to catch waves and make history. North Korea is the ultimate surfing destination of the 21st century!

Photo: http://www.peaceandsurf.com

 The source: http://www.peaceandsurf.com
 

SURF PARKS IN THE FUTURE

SURF PARKS IN THE FUTURE

Photo: http://www.peaceandsurf.com

Leaders of the surf industry will discuss the future of artificial surf pools 
at the Surf Park Summit, on the 13th September, 2013, in Costa Mesa, California.

How can we accelerate the future of sustainable surf? 

The question may be answered when researchers, investors, developers, suppliers, surfers and industry representatives get together in the upcoming Surf Park Summit.
Over the last 10 years, surfing has proven to be one of the fastest growing sports despite geographical limitations and access to quality wave conditions. 

Surf parks create profitable opportunities to overcome current obstacles and grow the sport of surfing globally.

Recent advancements in wave generation technology and energy consumption produce attractive returns for investors while surf parks create amazing visual and experiential attractions for visitors and complementary businesses.
Building authentic, sustainable and profitable surfing experiences to grow the surf industry and provide the mental, physical and emotional stoke of surfing beyond the ocean is clearly possible.
Man-made surf parks are on the daily menu and create the opportunity for international and Olympic competitive surfing to emerge through fair and technical standards of judging.

The 2013 Surf Park Summit will discuss the state of wave technology, surf park business models, surf tourism, surf park regulation, and advances in sustainable technologies.

Fernando Aguerre, Doug Palladini, Chad Nelson, Jess Ponting, Bruce McFarlan, Greg Webber, Tom Lochtefeld, Jamie Meiselman, Glenn Brumage, Chris Clarke and Lloyd Ravenscroft are invited speakers. 


The source: http://www.peaceandsurf.com

THE NEWEST SHARKPROOVE WETSUIT

THE NEWEST SHARK PROOVE WETSUIT

Photo: http://www.peaceandsurf.com

The world's first shark deterrent wetsuits have been unveiled by the University of Western Australia and Shark Attack Mitigation Systems.

An Australian company and scientists from the University of Western Australia think they have designed the best practical solution for shark attacks.

"The two wetsuit design variations either present the wearer as potentially dangerous and unpalatable to a shark, or make it very difficult for the shark to see the wearer in the water", Shark Attack Mitigation Systems reveal.

"The shark deterrent technology can be applied to products such as wetsuits, skins and stickers for diving air tanks, surfboards, kayaks, skis and more".
The Elude wetsuit creates confusion for the shark's visual systems and it makes surfers less visible to the water predator. 

The Diverter, a black and white striped wetsuit, tells shark that the wave rider is not real food.
The patented designs can also be applied to stickers for surfboards, dive tanks, kayaks and other water sport products. The new formula has been tested in the water with tiger sharks, but not on humans.

Radiator is the first company licensed to incorporate this technology into wetsuits and surfboard stickers, while other established brands are expected to follow suit soon. Western Australia has seen five deadly shark attacks, in the last two years.

The source: http://www.peaceandsurf.com

WHAT TO DO AFTER A SURF SESSION?

WHAT TO DO AFTER A SURF SESSION?

When you've caught all the waves and your surf session ends, 

there are a few things you should do to take care of yourself and your surf gear.

You're surfed out. Exhausted, yet happy and relaxed. Another surf session successfully completed. It's time to undress your wetsuit and hit the road.
Unfortunately, surfers tend to forget important post-surf routines. They might be details, but they'll definitely impact your next heyday.

What should we do after a surf session?

1. Dry your ears and drain any traces of salted water. You don't want to develop surfer's ear. Learn a few prevention and protection tips;

2. Stretch after surf. It is very important to stretch your hamstrings, shoulders and spine after paddling for waves. Halt the effects of lactic acid production by releasing muscle tension. Surf training will improve your surfing;

3. Eat proteins. Restore the energy levels in your body by eating turkey, fish, cheese, lean beef, eggs or yogurts right between 30 and 60 minutes after surfing. You'll be building muscles with proper surf food;

4. Drink water, not beer. Yes, it's hard to avoid a cold beer after a perfect summer surfing day, but at least have a large bottle of still mineral water before the golden trophy;

5. Check your car keys are safe. Many surfers undress their wetsuits right after reaching the shore. Many car keys are lost in the moment, so reach them as soon as possible. Get a simple waterproof dry bag;

6. Get your surfboard a fresh water shower. Salt water can be corrosive to a surfboard, so rinsing it with freshwater is always a good advice;

7. Dry your surfboard. Never get your surfboard in the bag without drying it with a towel;

8. Remove old wax. Removing wax that has been on your surfboard for more than a decade is a wise thing to do. Old wax loses its grip properties and makes your surfboard heavier. Re-wax;

9. Check if you need a ding repair. Water is the worst enemy of surfboard foam. Make sure you get a good ding repair kit to seal those small cracks on your favorite stick;

10. Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water and dry it in the shade. Learn how to clean your wetsuit to make it last longer...

and now you can finally chillout and play.... ;)

The source: http://www.peaceandsurf.com

WHY SURFING IS SO ADDICTIVE?

WHY SURFING IS SO ADDICTIVE?

It’s not a secret that surfing is fun, it can make us feel young and wild and free, but that isn’t why surfing is addictive. 

Surfing is addictive because it is based on an unexpected rewards system.
 

More than 60 years ago, researchers discovered that when rats were given unpredictable rewards they experienced obsessive behavior. 

American psychologist B.F. Skinner conducted a study giving rats randomly-timed rewards: 

The rats were on the edge of their seats (or wheels or piles of wood chips) during the waiting period between unexpected rewards, actively anticipating the next one. They obsessively tapped on a bar in their cage, hoping they could trigger a reward.
It's quite logical to start thinking of the unexpected rewards system in terms of surfing...

I listened to a woman on the radio speaking in a Spanish accent: 

“An unexpected reward has much more power than one that is regular in driving behavior,” said Nora Volkow, the head of the National Institute on Drug Abuse. “This has been known for a very long time.”

One thing about surfing is, you can’t go out and get the waves you want anytime you want them. Wind, swell, time off work, getting out of class, excusing yourself from plans with your significant other and having your board on-hand must come together in order for you to receive the reward of surfing fun waves. And to a surfer waiting for those waves can feel like an eternity.
While waiting, the brain releases dopamine in anticipation of a swell coming in, or when we think about the next time we’ll get a chance to catch waves. Dopamine is addictive, which causes us to obsessively think about when that next reward of fun waves will be delivered.

But when the waves come, surfers are stoked. After catching some solid waves we’re happier, friendlier and more relaxed. The endorphins, adrenalin and serotonin we receive from surfing combined with the dopamine from the unexpected reward of waves make surfers not only feel good, but wanting more! 

The fact is, if we’re not surfing, we’re addicted to thinking about surfing :) 

and that’s just in our nature...

  

The source: http://www.peaceandsurf.com 

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FIN TO YOUR SURFBOARD?

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FIN TO YOUR SURFBOARD?

Photo: http://www.surfertoday.com/surfing/5706-how-to-choose-the-best-surf-fins

Fins play a decisive role in surfing and surfboard performance. 

Surfers tend to believe it's all about shaping and surf skills, but fins have evolved much over the last 10 years. 

So, how should we choose a set of new fins?

There are 9 major characteristics in a surf fin:  

1. material,  
2. base,
3. depth,  
4. sweep,  
5. area,  
6. cant,  
7. toe,  
8. foil 
9. flexibility. 

That's why surfers should pick fins carefully by adjusting their surfboard to their experience in wave riding. Molded fins are the most common kits available in the market. 
They often are seen as custom fins and come with the usual surfboards sold in a surf shop. 
There's also the resin transfer molded (RTM) fin, a high tech unit designed with aerospace-based concepts. The RTM has a layer of honeycomb foam. 

The fiber glass fin has a stiff base and a certain amount of tip flex.
Surf fins can be stiffer or more flexible. 
The most resistant fins ensure more driveability while a softer kit is provides more safety. They can be inserted in a wider or narrower base, in the surfboard fin box, depending on your speed/drive preferences.
Shorts fins are great for "slide surfing" because there's less friction in the water. Longer fins may avoid wipe outs, but will also slow your wave rides. 
If the overall fin area (base plus depth) is bigger it will be harder to turn and carve.
The sweep of a fin is very relevant, too. 
If your fins are strongly angled backwards, your bottom turns and cut backs will be more rounded. With the cant angle of a fin you may determine the responsiveness of your surfboard - decreasing the cant will ride you faster in a straight wave line.
The toe angle is the angle relation to the stringer. It can be angled inward or not. If the front of the fins is closer to the stringer, making an inverted "V", any slightest body balance will get a response by the surfboard.
Finally, look for the importance of the foil. Like in an aircraft wing, you can get curved or foiled fins. In hydrodynamics, the more pronounced the foil, the slower you'll surf a wave and a lift will be created under the surfboard.

 
The source: http://www.surfertoday.com/surfing/5706-how-to-choose-the-best-surf-fins

THE HISTORY OF FIN DESIGN

THE HISTORY OF FIN DESIGN

They say it is the most instrumental element in the progression of surfing. Surfboard fins, how critical are they in modern wave riding?
The history of the surf fins is also written with art. Timothy Hogan, 

founder of "The Fin Project", combines his love of surfing with his passion for photography:

"I believe that developments in fin design from pioneers such as Tom Blake, Bob Simmons, George Greenough (to name a few) have propelled surfing more than any other single element in the history of the sport. They are surfing's unsung heroes", explains Hogan.

"We will be producing a gallery show, coffee table book and feature-length documentary exploring the story of the fin. We're not so good at sitting still", he adds.

"The Fin Project" will be releasing its first series of fine art photographs available for purchase online.

The photos are just the beginning of this project, which will eventually grow to encompass a gallery show, photography book, documentary film and an online archive.

The surfboard fin industry has been evolving in the last 10 years. Until then fins were considered a secondary gear item in surfing. Now, fins are crucial to high performance wave riding and can make the difference in competition.

Selecting the best fin kit for your surfboard and your surfing skills is not easy, but you can get an in-depth look at fin selection. 

Nevertheless, there are a few general formulas. 
If you're a light surfer, pick fins with less area and if your surfboard has a wide tail, choose a bigger fin!

Are you looking for quick responses from your surfboard? Buy a stiffer fin kit. 

Going for big waves in a small surfboard? Take larger and more swept fins. 

There are multiple combinations you can actually test.

The surfboard fin industry is dominated by no more than 8 brands:

1. Fin Control Systems (FCS) is the leading trademark and was founded in 1995 by Brian A. Whitty, in Australia.  
2. Future Fins is also fighting for a relevant share of the mark. (Both first fin brands offer a complete collection of units for every type of surfing needs. It is possible to combine and balance speed with surfboard responsiveness and there are fins for shortboards and longboards.) 
3. Dorsal, 
4. Red-X Fins, 
5. Speeed Fins,  
6. Rainbow Fins, Patagonia,  
7. Kinetik Racing 
8. Turbo Tunnel 

That's the complete list of the most famous surf fins in the world. 

Almost all fins can be tightened down with an Hex key or Allen wrench.

There are 5 main fin setups: 

1. single fin, 
2. twin fin, 
3. thruster, 
4. 2+1 fin 
5. quad fin setups.

 

The source: http://www.surfertoday.com

HOW TO GET SPONSORED?

HOW TO GET SPONSORED?

Sterling Spencer is a great example of someone who adapted to the times in order to be a pro in 2013. Photo: Glaser

In 2007, at the height of the surf industry’s financial prosperity, we put together a rather naive piece titled “How To Get Sponsored.” At the time, companies were so flush with cash that they were throwing contracts at any 10-year-old who could put together a half-decent cutback. Oh, how times have changed. Nearly six years later, with the industry in flux and team rosters cut to the bone, it’s clear that the road to sponsorship has never been more difficult to traverse. Below, Nick Greeninger—a one time Rip Curl team manager turned agent for a handful of today’s top pros—lays out the reality what it’s going to take to obtain a sponsor in today’s anemic environment.

Adjust Your Expectations
 
It’s no secret that the surf industry is going through some transitions. Needless to say, it’s harder than ever to pick up a sponsor. There are lots of surfers out there who have done everything right and still can’t make a career out of it. If you’re fortunate enough to have a company support you from a young age, you’ll need to understand that you’re not going to be going on plush photo trips or be making a monthly paycheck anymore. Those days are gone. It’s a different world today. So the best advice I could give a young surfer looking for a sponsor is to adjust your expectations. Be thankful that you can get anything. But also keep in mind that being a pro surfer isn’t everything. Hopefully you didn’t start surfing to put stickers on your board, so if it doesn’t happen for you, it’s not the end of the world. You’re still a surfer.

Start Local
 
If you’re looking for a sponsor, the best thing you can do is to start with your local surf shop. Keep it local. Surf a ton. Get on your high school surf team. Enter all the local contests you can. When you’re not in school and you’re not in the lineup, spend time at the shop and do what you can to support them as a team rider. Surf shops are part of the surfing experience and are a big part of our culture. I love walking into a shop and seeing groms hanging out. Believe it or not, the time you spend in the shop is actually how you’ll start moving up the ranks. You’ll undoubtedly run into sales reps coming in and out of the shop. If you’re surfing well, representing the shop in a positive way, and have a good head on your shoulders, the sales rep will get to know your name. From there, they might pass your name onto his company’s regional team rider. With any luck, you guys will build a relationship and they’ll throw you some clothes and stickers. Like I said, don’t expect boat trips anymore.

Go To Traditional School
 
One of the biggest pieces of advice that I can give out is to go to traditional school. We saw way too many kids going the homeschool route over the past few years. I personally believe that traditional school is a better option on a number of levels. We’ve seen that, even with the top guys, you can go to traditional school and still be a top-tier athlete. Dillon Perillo, Zeke Lau, Carissa Moore, and Nat Young all went to a regular high school and were able to balance that with the demands of simultaneously being a professional surfer. But more than just that, I think it’s in the best interest of the company you’re riding for to have you in a traditional school. You’ll be socializing. You’ll be wearing their clothes and representing their brand to your friends and the other kids in school. That’s what they need and want.

Elevate Your Attitude and Your Surfing
 
Being a talented surfer with a terrible attitude will get you absolutely nowhere in surfing. No one will want to work with you. The surf industry doesn’t need their athletes causing trouble. They don’t want to be attached to someone that’s going to lower the image of their brand. I’m not saying that every surfer can’t be an individual or just be themselves, but don’t be a jerk. It’s just like anything else in life: no one wants to hang out with you if you’re constantly bringing them down and getting into a bunch of drama. We’ve seen that a lot in the past where some of the most talented guys weren’t getting media exposure because no one wanted to work with them. Today, you have to be an amazingly talented surfer and also someone that people will want to work with.
 

The source: http://www.surfermag.com/instruction/how-to-get-sponsored-in-2013/

THE HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN SURFING

THE HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN SURFING

Photo: www.surfresearch.com.au

Surfing is a very popular watersport, and Australia has some of the best surfing spots in the world, possessing some of the surfing champion of the world. Surfies travel the globe looking for 'the' waves, and many of those occur around the Australian coastline, in particular the infamous Bell's Beach. Always take local advice on the waves, which must be treated with respect. Check out some of the popular surfing beaches.

Surfing and our surfing culture is not just a fad of the 20th century, but is actually a culture that is thousands of years old! It has only been in the last 100-to-200 years that records the history of surfing and surf culture.

It is thought that Captain James Cook first observed this pastime in the early 1770s. It was around the same time that missionaries suppressed the sport, outlawing it as being an 'unchristian' activity. It is believed that it was gambling that actually caused its demise when they removed sport from the activities of the noblemen who used to bet on the size of waves and length of ride. Surfing is said to have disappeared to most of the world for a couple of hundred of years. Previous to that Polynesians used to stand proud on wooden surfboards crafted from the timber of sacred trees. Fifteenth century 'Meles' (Hawaiian chants sung by elders and passed down generation to generation) record the surfing activities of the great Royal families and other dignitaries of even earlier times.

The Duke



It wasn't until December 1914 that Australian surfing history is to have officially begun when the legendary Hawaiian Olympic champion, 
Duke Kahanamoku, re-introduced the sport of surfing to Australia. 

He was invited to give a surfboard riding exhibition, 
and promptly shaped a surfboard out of a solid piece of Queensland Sugar Pine. 
A 16 year old girl, Isabella Letham, was plucked from a large crowd on the beach at Freshwater, Sydney, and became the first official record of an Australian learning to surf and actually standing up riding waves. 

After Duke left Australia, Claude West, "the Hawaiian's star pupil" became Australia's first surf champ and ruled as such from 1915 thru 1924.

Surfing soon captured the imagination of locals and quickly built up a cult of devotees and proceeded to capture the imagination of sporting Australians. 
A whole way of life had developed around surfing and the search for the perfect wave...
It soon became commonplace along coastal towns to find long-haired surfers cruising the more popular beaches in beaten-up old cars full of friends, surfboards and good humour. 

In the early 60's, surfing was then introduced to Europe by Australian Lifeguards...

Photo: www.flickr.com

If you are more interested in the history of australian surfing, you should definitely buy and read this book:

Phil Jarratt has taken a conquistador's approach to his latest book. 

It's all there in the title. He starts by defining his target, 'Surfing Australia', and then goes on to claim all the available territory, 'A Complete History Of Surfboard Riding In Australia'. Scepticism may be my default setting but in this instance I felt justified; Jarratt's book was commissioned by Surfing Australia the organisation who oversee competitive surfing, and competition is but a small slice of Aussie surfing's dominion.

So then, a complete history of surfboard riding in Australia? 

Well, you've gotta admire the chutzpah.

In his 2010 book, Salts and Suits, Jarratt's research and investigative ability were on full display. The diligence and perspicacity wielded in telling that tale of surf industry machinations puts him up there with the best of gumshoe detectives. In thongs, trilby and gaudy Hawaiian shirt I imagine he's 

a camouflage expert also.

Jarratt would want to be wearing comfortable attire as the information gathered for Surfing Australia is comprehensive. He's roamed the historical sections of libraries, scoured the catacombs of old lifesaving clubs and utilised his exhaustive network of contacts from four decades spent in the surf industry.

It's tempting to say the resultant text is academic but it's more than that: it's forensic. It's historically complex, laden with facts, and yet the 300 odd pages are as effortless to read as water running off a warm gloss coat.

Jarratt takes up the story in the first decade of last century when Australians – Sydneysiders to be exact – began to consider the ocean in front of them. Till then the national psyche had largely been shaped by the bush and the notions of space and wide, open plains.

On beaches such as Manly and Bondi a new and unique beach culture was establishing a foothold. Daytime bathing laws had recently been repealed and the ocean was becoming viewed as a healthy place of recreation. All of this at least five years before Duke Kahanomoku rode his famous waves at Freshwater and more than fifty years before Surfing Australia came into existence.

So it's obvious what Jarratt's ploy is: extend the book's scope from Surfing Australia, the institution, to a wider view of surfing in Australia. The role of competition in surfing is still a centrepiece but it's told via a wider cultural setting.

This is especially so after the first surf boom of the late 1950s when a Baby Boomer-spawned youth culture took hold in surfing and the beach subsequently became a focus for youthful discourse: fashion, music, and all the attendant trends. Jarratt expertly weaves his tale amongst these elements encompassing each prevailing and countervailing viewpoint. Little is left untouched.

Printed in suave hard cover with hundreds of period photos Surfing Australia: A Complete History of Surfboard Riding in Australia is an enjoyably ambitious book. One that appeals to a wider audience than competitive surfing ever will. Indeed that is the book's best trait; you may have never surfed in a competition yourself, or been a member of Surfing Australia, but that doesn't preclude you from appreciating and enjoying it.

The source: http://www.surfinaustralia.com.au/australian-surfing-history.html

http://www.swellnet.com.au/news/3556-surfing-australia-a-complete-history-of-surfboard-riding-in-australia

BEST SURF SPOTS IN LEBANON

BEST SURF SPOTS IN LEBANON

SIR and SIDON to the south of Lebanon have really only now been discovered by Australian surfers travelling to Lebanon to visit distant relatives.  
The points around these towns are being watched with much interest to assess long term surfability and frequency.

The main timings for the sirocco and mistral swells and winds are in the Northern Hemisphere Autumn and Spring (March and November). 
This would probably be the best time to plan your Mediterranean surf trip, though sitting this far east in the sea will give you the best chance of catching any swell generated from favourable weather systems.


Another source of swell is the storm cells of the North Atlantic. Many of these cells descend along the Irish coastline and then outwards along the Atlantic Coast. Occasionally certain cells in Winter (Dec-Jan) can sweep across southern Spain and into the Med. This is a rare but notable event that can send swell hurtling in a 360 degree radius, lighting up  points and reefs that see rideable surfing options maybe once or twice per year.

A beautiful country, but very concerned about violence due to war conflicts, with only moderate surfing potential (it is the Med after all), but as everywher... keen surfers making the best of what they've got!

Location: Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, 
between Israel and Syria

Geographic coordinates: 33 50 N, 35 50 E

Climate: Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; Lebanon mountains experience heavy winter snows

Terrain: narrow coastal plain; Al Biqa' (Bekaa Valley) separates Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon Mountains


Level of surfing: beginners

Quality of surf: average

Coastline: 225 km

Natural hazards: dust storms, sandstorms

Other Hazards: War/conflict

Best mohths: October-December

Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP),

Special Requirements: private beaches, Special Pass/Permits, 
Lengthy VISA process


ALMINA / MOSTAFA'S SPOT

Go by car from Beirut like 22km reaching the village JIEH near marina beach.

In summer, when there are waves, u can surf all day. 

In winter, u should surf from 5:00am untill 10:00am, because after that the winds grows...

General


Surf boards for rent can be found at Mostafa's place. 
For further info, contact Mostafa by e-mail: love_guivara@hotmail.com

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityWorld Class

ExperienceAll surfers

FrequencyVery consistent (150 day/year)

WAVE

TypeReef-rocky

DirectionRight and left

BottomFlat rocks

PowerPowerful

Normal lengthShort (< 50m)

Good day lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionWest

Good wind directionSouthWest

Swell sizeStarts working at 1.0m-1.5m / 3ft-5ft and holds up to 1m+ / 3ft+

Best tide positionLow tide only

Best tide movementRising and falling tides

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdFew surfers

AWUALI RIVERMOUTH / STADIUMS

Very easy to find, right off the main north/south highway between Beirut and Sidon. The rivermouth right before the new stadium in northern Sidon.
Rivemouth left, inconsistent and pollution problems a minus, but when sandbar is set up looks to offer long (for the med) lefts off the rivermouth. Best on the first day of a windswell as any consistent swell activity could chew up the sandbar. Fertilizer run off and chemicals from nearby farms pose the biggest health risk...

Atmosphere:


Even it is flat, you are in Lebanon, you get great food and people, so enjoy yourself! And the women are amongst the most beautiful in the world.

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityNormal

ExperienceAll surfers

FrequencySometimes break

WAVE

TypeSand-bar

DirectionLeft

BottomSandy

PowerHollow, Fun

Normal lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

Good day lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionWest, SouthWest

Good wind directionEast, NorthEast

Swell sizeStarts working at 1.0m-1.5m / 3ft-5ft and holds up to

Best tide position

Best tide movement

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdEmpty 

DANGERS

- Pollution

BATROUN/COLONEL

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

When coming from Beirut driving on the old Sea highway u’ll reach this beach on ur entrance. In order to reach the spot by car u should take a hidden old gravel road, u can get there by car and 4x4 (if u wanna take this road it’s better to ask a local to show u the way it’s only 150 m long). 

What I suggest is to reach it through another Beach it’s called “Blue Bay”. It’s easy to find with it’s parking lot it’s right on the road. The site is connected to Blue Bay & once ur at Blue Bay u can see the surf at “Colonel”. 

It’s a 5 minutes march and if want u can paddle to get there (u might be lucky and catch the big waves on ur way there.) Colonel is a rocky reef with big and fast waves. Sometimes u’ll have to share it with the windsurfers who are common in Batroun. There’s also a lot of body borders.

Contrary to Blue bay Colonel is a ruff environment for swimmers so u won’t have any hassle from swimmers. U’ll have the site for u and some other extreme sports Lovers (Ocean Kayakers, Windsurfers, Body Borders & so on….) if u wanna stick around there’s a Tent on the beach (for the Local surfers & windsurfers) u can always put ur stuff in it. The waves arrive to Colonel by consecutive groups ranging from 3 to 5 waves, so there are a lot of waves for everybody. Parking space is available n abundance. U can even enjoy the beach and the girls while ur there.

Atmosphere:

Because of it’s location next to Blue Bay (from where the surfers head out to the spot) & one of the most frequented beach in the area. U can always make ur grand entrance (there’s a lot of sexy Girls & Guys so u can always find ur self a nice companion for “SUPPORT”). Plus in order to keep the atmosphere between the Surfers & windsurfers High & competitive the local surfers formed 2 gangs the “Pirate” gang with it’s own tent “Headquarters” on one side of the beach & the “Hurricane gang on the other side also with there own “Headquarters”. These 2 gangs are so crazy and into surfing that sometime they head out to surf on Windsurfing boards plus some make there own hand made surfboards. Batroun in all is a beach town with its old souk and fishing port. In summer it’s packed with tourists, with its many night clubs & pubs. It’s the night Capital of North Lebanon. It’s a very smooth and nice atmosphere. U can chill on the beach or go and hit the dance Flores of its many clubs. The people are nice u’ll find urself welcomed between them. Batroune mainly receive European tourist so u can always find urself in one of the groups. Let’s not forget that u can camp on the Golden sandy beach.
It's lebanon and every body know that lebanon have the most beautifull atmosphere, so you would be pleased to come and see :)

General:


This spot is one of the best in Lebanon. Extreme Surfing lovers & smooth riders can find themselves in this spot.

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityNormal

ExperienceExperienced surfers

FrequencyRegular

WAVE

TypeReef-rocky

DirectionRight and left

BottomReef (coral,sharp rocks etc..) with sand

PowerHollow, Fast, Fun

Normal lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

Good day lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionNorthEast

Good wind directionNorthEast

Swell sizeStarts working at Less than 1m / 3ft and holds up to 2m+ / 6ft+

Best tide positionLow and mid tide

Best tide movementRising and falling tides

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdEmpty 

DANGERS

- Rocks

CASINO/ M3 Ameltein

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Very easy access from the road just under Casino du Liban in Jounieh.

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Experience

All surfers

FrequencySometimes break

WAVE

TypeBeach-break

Bottom

Sandy with rock

PowerFast, Fun

Normal lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionEast

Swell size

Starts working at 1.5m-2m /5ft-6ft and holds up to 5m / 16 ft and over

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdFew surfers

Week-end crowdFew surfers 

DANGERS

- Rocks

JONAS BEACH

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

25 km south of Beirut, motorway, Jyé exit. 
Left, cross Jyé village, at the gas station go straight. 
(Jonas Beach sign on the right.)

Jonas Beach is a private resort. Owner (Nassif) is a real waterman.
If you come during winter, the resort is closed but he will let you in.
During summer, fees are 10 000 LL (6,5 $) but you get a parking space, 
a beach umbrella, armchairs, showers, cloakroom and access to a cheap restaurant.

From there, you can walk to the next spot (Galleon).

Atmosphere:

When you are in Beirut check the swell size at Ramlet el Baydah 
(the beach close to the Summerland, south of Beirut).
Double this size and you get a figure of what you can expect at Jonas beach.

Definitively, this bay worth the trip from Beirut. If the swell is too small for surfing at Jonas, go to Phil and Did where the reef enhance the size of the waves (and it is public access).

General:

One of the best private beach, French expats and beautiful local girls go there.
Walk 5 min north by the beach and have a drink at Bamboo bay resort. 
Even more beautiful girls...

I have seen Jonas with 3m waves … twice (within 2 years !). 
But it is often suitable for longboard.
Wind swells are the only thing that break here, and they last only a day or so.


If it is totally flat (quite often during summer) rent a perissoire. 
It is a sort of flat small boat. Fisherman were used to go out standing on it with a paddle.

Jieh beach is the most relaxing and welcoming beach in Lebanon. Surfing is best in September and October. Come joine and explore!!!

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualitySloppy

ExperienceBeginners wave

FrequencySometimes break

WAVE

TypeBeach-break

DirectionRight and left

BottomSandy with rock

PowerPowerless

Normal lengthShort (< 50m)

Good day lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionNorthWest, West, SouthWest

Good wind directionSouthEast, East, NorthEast

Swell sizeStarts working at Less than 1m / 3ft and holds up to 2.5m+ / 8ft+

Best tide positionAll tides

Best tide movementRising and falling tides

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdFew surfers 

DANGERS

- Man-made danger (buoys etc..)

KOOSA

This place is great and is slightly better than Batroun Beach. 

Atmosphere:


The atmosphere to this beach is always amazing during the summer. 
There is almost nobody their and it's like having a whole beach to you and your friends. People are always very nice and always appreciate you being there.

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityRegional Classic

ExperienceExperienced surfers

FrequencyRegular

WAVE

TypeBeach-break

DirectionRight and left

BottomSandy

PowerHollow, Fast, Fun

Normal lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

Good day lengthLong (150 to 300 m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionNorthWest

Good wind directionNorthEast

Swell sizeStarts working at 1.0m-1.5m / 3ft-5ft and holds up to 3m+ / 10ft+

Best tide positionMid and high tide

Best tide movementRising tide

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdEmpty

MOSTAFA SPOT / AKIF'S REEF

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

South of Beirut (motorway), about 20 km. Jyé village.
Turn right at the "Porpheron beach" sign. Straight down.
On the right side of the Pier.

Check the reef configuration before going out.
There is a channel on the left side of ths spot, along the pier.

Don't go too far north (Syrian Camp), they will ask you to leave!
After the surf, have a drink at Akif's place (the red Coca-cola small cafe).
Akif will also keep your car and your belongings. On top of that he will offer you a cofee :)  Give him 3 000 LL (2 $) for parking fees when you'll be leaving.

Atmosphere:

Nobody is surfing there, except one local, Mustapha.
He lives in front of the spot. He is fed up of surfing alone!
This guy learned all by himself...

When you are in Beyrouth check the swell size at Ramneit el Baida 
(the beach close to the Summerland, south of Beirut).
Double this size and you get a figure of what you can expect at Jyé.

General:

One of the best spot of the country. Nice surroundings.
In summer, if it is flat, check Bamboo bay and Jonas private beaches 
(but you can walk by the sea front 15 mn from Akif's).

It's south of Jyé. 
Anyway, don't miss the beach parties on saturday night at Bamboo (from June to September).

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityRegional Classic

ExperienceAll surfers

FrequencySometimes break

WAVE

TypeReef-rocky

DirectionRight

BottomFlat rocks

PowerFun

Normal lengthShort (< 50m)

Good day lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionNorthEast

Good wind directionWest

Swell sizeStarts working at Less than 1m / 3ft and holds up to 2m+ / 6ft+

Best tide positionAll tides

Best tide movementRising and falling tides

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdEmpty 

DANGERS

- Urchins
- Rocks

NAHR BRAHIM

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

It is north of Beirut b4 jbeil where the river Nahr Brahim reach the sea. 
You can acces it free just in front of Byblos Bank.

Plenty of space to park the car and easy to find the beach, you need big waves to surf this spot, but once it brakes it's a long wave to surf... 
Althought the river water makes it a bit cold, so it is better to surf it in the hot summer.

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityRegional Classic

ExperienceAll surfers

FrequencySometimes break

WAVE

TypeRivermouth

DirectionRight and left

BottomSandy

PowerFast

Normal lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

Good day lengthLong (150 to 300 m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionWest, SouthWest

Good wind directionNorthWest, West, SouthWest

Swell sizeStarts working at 1.5m-2m /5ft-6ft and holds up to 4m+ / 12ft

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdFew surfers

Week-end crowdCrowded

OASIS BEACH / IL OASIS

This spot is hard to find with private access. You should take a car to reach it.

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityNormal

ExperienceBeginners wave

FrequencyRegular

PIERRE AND FRIENDS

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityRegional Classic

ExperienceExperienced surfers

FrequencySometimes break

WAVE

TypeReef-rocky

Direction

BottomFlat rocks

PowerFast

Normal lengthShort (< 50m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Swell size

Starts working at 2m-2.5m / 6ft-8ft and holds up to 4m+ / 12ft

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdFew surfers

Week-end crowdFew surfers 

DANGERS

- Rocks

RAMLET EL BAYDACH

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Drive Down the Corniche Road, turn south at "The Grand Cafe Restaurant". The long stretch of sandy beach is the spot (very hard to miss).

This spot is really only active after a storm, the pictures attached are the day after a very windy 2 days of rain. Hence it was somewhat polluted and the waves are the largest probably in all year.

Atmosphere:

This spot would go off if only the fetch was bigger (not really an option is it :).

Wind swells are the only thing that break here, and they last only a day or so, no ground swells... :(

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityNormal

ExperienceAll surfers

FrequencySometimes break

WAVE

TypeBeach-break

DirectionRight and left

BottomSandy with rock

PowerOrdinary, Fun, Powerless

Normal lengthShort (< 50m)

Good day lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionNorthWest, West, SouthWest

Good wind directionSouthEast, East, NorthEast

Swell sizeStarts working at 1.0m-1.5m / 3ft-5ft and holds up to

Best tide position

Best tide movement

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdEmpty 

DANGERS

- Pollution

CHEKKA / SANDY BEACH

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

This is definitively the best spot in Lebanon
during the biggest storms/swell since it's protected from the south
by the Point of Chekka. 
The spot is situated right after passing the tunnel of Chekka 
(~50 km from Beirut). 
There's a long pier perpendicular to the Sandy Beach. 
The point is on the left of the Pier.
Beautiful rights. The pictures unfortunately were taken
on the inside break....
Enjoy....

When you're cought on the inside the break can be very powerful so you can climb on the pier and walk pass the break and go back in the water.
After the Tunnel first main exit is Chekka. 
When you're out go toward the beach then go South for about 1 km. 
There is a very small sign on the right that says "Sandy Beach" 
- take this narrow street which will get you to the spot.

On the map it's between Tam Tam and Tripoli.

(This spot breaks only when the waves at Tam Tam or in Batroun are more than 2 meters....)

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityRegional Classic

ExperienceAll surfers

FrequencyRarely break (5day/year)

WAVE

TypeBreakwater/jetty

DirectionRight

BottomSandy

PowerPowerful

Normal lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

Good day lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionSouthWest

Good wind directionSouthWest

Swell sizeStarts working at 2m-2.5m / 6ft-8ft and holds up to 4m+ / 12ft

Best tide positionAll tides

Best tide movement

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdEmpty

TAM TAM / ECH AL ASAFIR (BIRDS NEST)

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

Photo: http://www.wannasurf.com

North of Beirut - exit at Byblos (Jbeil) and ask for Tam Tam Beach.

The best spot is on the right of the beach near the rocks.

SURF SPOT QUALITY

Wave qualityNormal

ExperienceAll surfers

FrequencyDon't know

WAVE

TypeBeach-break

DirectionRight and left

BottomSandy

PowerOrdinary

Normal lengthShort (< 50m)

Good day lengthNormal (50 to 150m)

TIDE, SWELL AND WIND

Good swell directionSouthWest

Good wind directionSouthWest

Swell sizeStarts working at 1.0m-1.5m / 3ft-5ft and holds up to 3m+ / 10ft+

Best tide positionAll tides

Best tide movement

MORE DETAILS

Week crowdEmpty

Week-end crowdEmpty

WHAT TO PACK TO GO TO LEBANON?

Essentials: sunscreen in summer; good walking shoes.  
No need to worry about cash - plenty of ATM's in the cities.

Make sure you pack according to the season. Going in winter will require warm clothes. In summer it can ger very hot and humid, so take some cooling clothes. Windproof and waterproof clothes will be good. As usual, bring all medical things u need with you, as in some remote parts of the country it can be difficult to get them.


All the gear if you plan to camp: a good sleeping bag and tent that are good for very low temp; special gas container u can use for heating food and water; a sturdy backpack or a cargo pack with a good daypack. Invest in a portable water filter or at least take some puri-tabs or boil the water.


The source: http://www.surfingatlas.com/country/111
http://www.wannasurf.com/spot/Middle_East/Lebanon/index.html