At last summer is emerging and releasing its warm and gentle breezes upon the golden coastline of Southern California.  Hot time, summer in Surf City.  I love this time of year because I come from the school of thought that it’s better to be warm than cold.

One of the great things to do here in our little part of paradise during the summer months is to learn how to surf.  Each summer zillions do it.  Birds do it, bees do it, and even little trees do it.  This year it should be and could be YOU.

So you are asking me, “But Corky, why should I want to learn to surf.  Isn’t it scary and a little dangerous?”  My answer to that is… well, yes.  It can be.  But it is also mega tons of fun and has been known to change more than one life.  Surfing is an addiction to many of us.  A way of life.   Almost a religion to some.  And, on top of that, it is just plain flat out a great thing to do.

And most importantly, the scary and dangerous part can be significantly reduced by getting proper instruction when you first start.  There are many good surfing schools all up and down the coast from Malibu to San Diego (including the Corky Carroll Surf School in Huntington Beach).  My best tip is to tell you to find one near you and start there.  Do that before you go out and buy a surfboard.  After a couple of sessions you will know if surfing is for you.  But I have to warn you: surfing can seriously affect your future as far as college and career goes.

Corky Carroll: Five-time US Overall Surfing champion. Three-time International Surfing champion. International Big Wave champion. World Small Wave champion. Named Best Surfer in the World in 1968 by Surfer Magazine poll. Miller Lite All Star. And voice of Grubby Grouper on Spongebob Squarepants.