One of the top reasons our guests select Ocean Reef Resort is because we’re oceanfront. When they come to stay in Myrtle Beach, they want the beach in their backyard! The beach is great for lounging, but it’s also a great place to swim and play in the ocean, with waist-high, fairly mellow waves that are the perfect temperature for swimming throughout the summer months.
If you like to take big toys like surfboards and kayaks with you into the ocean, there are a few things to keep in mind: During the peak season, kayaking or surfing in the ocean off of city beaches is restricted between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. between May 1 and Labor Day. The restrictions are outlined on the City of Myrtle Beach website.
If you do decide to swim or board, be aware of the tide. Find out what the ideal tide is for the spot you plan to hit. Also, make sure you now whether the tide is coming in or going out. Some breaks are affected and by the tides, for example: a spot might have more wave action as the tide gets higher. As the tide gets lower, the waves can do a number of things: get bigger, close out, become more hallow and section more often.
Spend time watching the waves before you get in the water. Look to see the size of the waves, how they break, and pay attention to the wind. Use the answers you get to determine which waves to target and which ones to avoid.
Now, if what you really need is a head start in the form of surfing or paddleboarding lessons, here are a few options in Myrtle Beach near Ocean Reef Resort:
Eternal Wave Surf Shop:
Eternal Wave offers surfing lessons for people of all ages starting at $45 for an hour. Lessons take place at Magnolia Ave. on Garden City Beach. Eternal Wave also offers surf camps Monday through Wednesday throughout the summer for two hours each day. Paddle Board lessons are also offered.
Jack’s Surf Lessons
Jack’s is located just north of the Springmaid Pier. One popular option is Summer Camp, a full day of lessons that begins with ocean safety and ends with an awards ceremony with surf-tificates of graduation. Private, semi-private and small group lessons are also offered. Visit Jack’s Surf Lessons’ website for the summer camp schedule.
Kokopelli Surf Camp:
This North Myrtle Beach surf camp offers stand-up paddleboard camps and salt marsh tours, surfing camps, surf lessons and rentals. Surf lessons start at $50 per person. The only prerequisite is the ability to swim.
Surf City:
Surf City also offers both surfing and stand-up paddleboarding lessons, though most paddleboarding is done on flat water—the Intracoastal Waterway. Group lessons start at $50 per person.
Posted 6/13/13
