The Long Beach Peninsula is a great place to learn how to surf, it can dish up some really fun beach break and there's always whitewater for the beginner surfer.

• Water temps are typically 10 degrees warmer than anywhere else in the area. Expect water temps of 60° F + July - September. Booties & hoods are usually not necessary.

• With 28 miles of drivable sand beach you never have to worry about crowds. Find your own private sandbar or join other surfers at established sandbars like the Seaview Beach Approach or Beards Hollow.

• If you're already an experienced surfer and are looking to explore the area, look for east winds or under 10 knots, swell height under 4 ft, and swell period 11-15 sec when checking your favorite surf forecast website.

A few things to keep in mind:

• The water here can get warm but it is NEVER warm enough to surf without a wetsuit (Floatation).

• There is often a side shore current on the beach which is not dangerous in itself, but is something to be aware of (don't drift further than you're willing to walk back up the beach).

• The surf is usually bigger than it looks from the beach, the slope of the beach is very shallow.

• If you are not a strong paddler, stay knee to waist deep.

• Surf with buddies