Surfing has always thought to be something that is done in far away places like Hawaii or Australia, but now it’s practically in your backyard. Wannabe wave-heads can tap the source right here in the Palmetto state — for a small fee, of course.
Surfing has been gained mainstream popularity in recent years thanks to a slew of Hollywood films. This begs an age-old question: which came first – the surfing films or widespread acceptance of the sport?
Well, whichever it was, surfing is now a well-recognized and respected endeavor. Much of America remains fascinated by surfers and their mystical swagger. Now, not only are there films about the iconic sport, but thanks to YouTube there are bloopers and action clips just a mouse click away.
Surfing is usually thought of as something that is done in far away places like Hawaii or Australia, but now it’s practically in your backyard. Wannabe wave-heads can tap the source right here in the Palmetto State — for a small fee, of course.
Only four hours away lies Charleston, the ocean and the Shaka Surf School. Named after a Hawaiian greeting and run by two girls who have surfing in their blood, they bring with them not only the sport of Hawaii but also some of the culture. Moira Gil and Jenny Brown who have both surfed for over 25 years. They are quick to point out, that contrary to popular belief, you can learn to surf in South Carolina. Apparently, the small waves and swallow waters of Folly Beach aid beginning surfers, not hinder them.
Gil and Brown teach all of their students the important basics of mastering the waves: how to paddle correctly, how to catch the perfect wave, the difference between a good and a bad wave, different types of waves, the best places to surf and, of course, safety. All Shaka classes are based on safety techniques: discerning between currents, how to get out of a bad situation, etc. While it may not be the most glamorous part of surfing, it’s perhaps the most important because the ocean quickly turns from friend to foe.
Shaka Surf School offers week-long camps for $300. For more information, call (843) 568-1341. Other surfing schools in the Charleston area which teach the same basic principles are Barrier Islands Surf Camp (843) 327 -7848 and Beach Town Surf Shak (843) 388-2424.
