Surf kayak class recommendation

I live in Santa Cruz and would benefit from some instruction on launching in the surf. Never done it and seems a bit intimidating with a loaded kayak.

Loebs and I took our kayak surf class today from Chris,  the owner of HMB kayak.  Great class and I feel much better prepared and comfortable with surf dynamics and boat handling. We spent about an hour or so in a class type setting before gearing up and going out.  On the way over to Surfers Beach, Chris pointed out many of the dynamics we had discussed in class.  We stored away gear on our kayaks outside the area we were going to land, and Chris walked us through the key points and most importantly, universal paddle signalling.  He landed first, then signalled us in with stops, back paddle, and go go go along the way. Surf was way bigger than I would have launched on my own, but we felt safe in an experts hands.  Once landed, we spent a lot of time working in the splash zone pre big break getting used to tackling already broken waves coming in, broaching, and simply waiting for the sets to clear.  We then did a few rounds of full beach to outside of break exits.  Really good stuff.  Nothing broken, no loss of life, great day. I'd highly recommend Chris to anyone seeking surf kayak instruction.  Loebs is a rockstar, I've got a ways to go!!


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It was a fun day for sure! The paddle signaling and communication from someone on shore really helped with landing. Never tried back paddling when in the soup zone and it made timing the waves easier. Broaching, is something possible even on a heavy outback was able to ride my first landing in. Learned to keep your arms tight and lean into the wave. I tend to panic in the surf zone and stop paddling will work on relaxing more. My paddle leash is too large and gets in the way with landing going to skip it or use a small paracord. Taking this class increased my confidence and made me want to practice  even more.  Super useful class and highly recommended.Those were some key takeaways for me muir and Bolinas launches should be easier now.

Bolinas launches should be easier now.

Don’t jinx yourself! Lol 

Been wanting to take a class like this. Would like to get better at broaching.  Anyone else want to schedule a group lesson??

Glad to hear a good report on HMB's kayak classes.  I took it several times when it was offered as a group at MBK.  I think I'll schedule a session soon 

Those hand signals do come in handy and thanks for the reminder!  But with friends like mine, they would rather whip out their phone and record your landing than help you back in