This is a favorite spot for those that are just starting to surf. Surfing is a challenging sport so finding the right beach to learn at is critical. I went with North Shore Surf Girls. If you are lucky enough to have Carol teach you, be prepared to fall in love with being out on those waves. She is no joke, a pioneer of big-wave bodyboarding and one of those woman that has broken gender barriers. She will take care to teach you well, but she isn’t going to coddle either. During my second lesson, she pushed me, literally, into some of the bigger waves. It is the only way to learn. I’m here to tell you though…if I can wipeout and want to go back…you will too. Riding a wave in is an incredible feeling. There are other outfits that operate out of the beach too. I saw many families with kids and their own rented boards. The area right off the beach by the brick wall (where most people congregate) is perfect for little ones (and turtle sightings). The waves can get tricky, if you aren’t familiar with the area ask someone who is where the safe spots to swim are. There are a couple of landmarks on the beach that keep folks out of the channel and the swells. There is a certain etiquette on surfing beaches, so it is important to respect that. The beach is beautiful, with outdoor showers, restrooms and changing areas. There is also a Veteran’s Memorial worth visiting on the far side of the parking lot. It is wonderful that this beach welcomes commercial outfits to offer surf instruction. Learning the pattern and rhythm of how to paddle out and take a wave can be intimidating but this beach is perfectly set up for the job. Bring a garbage bag with you and be contentious…even if it isn’t your trash that you pick up keeping plastics and garbage in check is the responsibility of all visitors!