DEEP Surf Camp Guide 2014 DEEP Surf Camp Guide 2014 | Page 3

PHOTO: BRANDEN AROYAN

Ready for Rincon?

Ventura Makos

You know it’s intriguing

to see the evolution of surf camps on the Central Coast. Surf camps have
been a part of Southern Californian culture for the last 10 years, and now
it seems as if surf camps are becoming more of a staple up here on the
Central Coast as well ... for all ages of beach goers, both male and female.  
Having taught surf lessons here and there over the past eight years, it’s really
encouraging to see the professionalism that is a part of many surf camps these days.
Many camps now take a formal approach to teaching that is rooted more in sound
teaching than the old “hey dude attitude.” Those taking the lesson will often be taught
ocean safety by learning about ocean currents and conditions. The task at hand is
always to learn to ride a wave, but most surf camp instructors are aware that when
their students’ fear of the ocean decreases, students’ anxiety also decreases, making
new surfers more relaxed in the water and much quicker learners.
As people’s interest in surf lessons has expanded, the number of lessons each
camp offers and the range of levels of training have followed the spike in demand. For
instance, parents could drop off their child for an all-day camp with top instructors
in the morning, and later come back to take a lesson with their young 6-year-old
daughter and 50-year-old best friend.  
I’ve taught that diversity of lessons myself, and it’s exciting and very fun to be an
instructor of surfers of all levels. Seeing a young surfer with promise improving and
becoming a local standout is what instructors crave. Watching a young kindergarten
girl stand up faster than her father and brother on a first lesson provides a laugh and
an excitement that is shared among the entire group as well.
There is nothing like the ocean and nothing better than riding a wave. I don’t care
if you’re 6 or in your 60s, getting out in the water for a surf camp will bring you joy no
matter if your aspirations are to go pro, or just to produce a serious rush and a memory
that you’ll never forget.  
So get out and find a surf camp that is right for you this summer.

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