What Makes Paddleboarding in LA So Special Year-Round?

In Uncategorized by Daniel Kazmaier
Hello Paddlers!

While it may not be obvious to everyone (so many things on the water are counter intuitive as many of us know)…

But stand up paddle boarding in SoCal is a year-round activity and really some of the best conditions for it are in the Fall and Winter!

Well aside from the occasional wind event like the Santa Ana’s or our atmospheric river and bomb cyclones events you may have noticed that we get warm sunny days and mellow breezes this time of year…

Perfect for paddlers!

Plus, with any storm activity coming in form the North, the Santa Monica bay offers protection so Malibu can really shine as a coastal paddle destination worthy of some of the best location paddle destinations in America.

Yes, all your practice paddling in the marina has paid off and now it’s time to make the most of being a paddler living in Los Angeles and get on the ocean and experience the clear waters off Paradise Cove…

As well as the magical moments that we as local paddlers get to enjoy!

Here are three more great reasons to get on the Ocean this time of year…

But before we get into those (and be sure to hang around until the end – there’s an important list at the bottom!)…

Are you…

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It’s the ultimate gift for adventure lovers, aspiring paddlers, or anyone looking to experience the magic of SUP in Southern California.

🎁 Whether they’re new to paddle boarding or seasoned pros, a Paddle Method session is the gift of unforgettable memories on the water.

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And now, back to those undeniable reasons as to why paddling in LA is a year-round activity starting first with:

1. Bioluminescence

You may have seen the bioluminescence light up the area a few weeks ago. If not, check out these two viral videos that show the amazing effects!
Did you watch them? Amazing, right?! Well, there’s more to look forward to…

2. Whale Migration

Did you know that whale migration season is December through April?

Grey whales head south December through February and head north February through April with their new babies right a long our coast.

It’s an amazing site to see on a SUP!
3. Bragging Rights

Last, we get to brag to anyone NOT living in Los Angeles that we get to paddle year-round!

This last reason is a little underrated haha. But it’s true! We’re blessed to be able to live in one of the most beautiful locations on Earth…

And that’s why we should take advantage of it by getting on the water as much as possible!
So, don’t put those paddle board dreams away with your flip flops and come join is for a Malibu Coastal Tour or Ocean/ Wave Adventure in Venice…

Or just come get some paddle exercise in the marina with a rental!

Having said all that, let me ask you a different question real quick…

Who likes a road trip?

If you have weekends free and are looking for something social, outdoorsy, and active with fun people who like to do fun things…

Then keep an eye for our weekend paddle road trips!

  • Paradise Cove
  • Cabrillo Beach
  • Laguna Caves
  • Pyramid Lake
  • Newport Back Bay Estuary
  • Carlsbad Lagoon
  • Morro Bay
  • Catalina Island!

Who knows, maybe we paddle the LA River too!

(Seriously, it’s fun. I’ve done it!)

And more!

Let’s hit the road and do cool paddle things with cool paddle people…

If you’re in…reply to this newsletter with “I’m interested!”

The plan is to pick a weekend day once or twice a month and paddle around SoCal…

There are tons of diverse places to paddle all with unique and exciting things to offer and some challenges too but, really, this is what SUPs are made for…

Every waterway becomes accessible!
Prepare for Year-Round Paddling

What can you do to prepare for you err, ahem, “off season paddling” in SoCal?

Well, practice doesn’t have to lead to perfection but in an ever changing forum you might as well work on going in a straight line, paddle efficiently, and learn how to create speed when you need it…

That’s why it’s a great idea to join the PMC to find people to practice with, be social, and get club pricing!

Additionally, you may want to start building your paddle kit.

As you develop your abilities you will do more, see more, be more of a paddler and you will want some gear to go with it.

Here are some items to consider so you can grab and go the next time you hear a thar she blows and it’s time to paddle with a whale for you first time…

Essential Gear for Year-Round Paddling

To make the most of your paddling, here are a few essentials we recommend (lots of Black Friday deals to be had here!!):

Water Shoes: Great for rocky launch spots!

Water Socks: Waterproof socks can keep your feet warm when your toes are wet and it gets breezy.

Booties: Another footwear option cause it’s nice to have options! Harder to get on and off but offers thicker insulation with a fleece linning if you have a tendency to get cold feet! Remember, the thicker they are the warmer your feet will be!

Wetsuits & Rash Guards: Perfect for cooler water temps. Check out our top picks for women’s and men’s rash guards and wetsuits:
Leggings from LuluLemon:  You’re at least going to get wet up to your knees and if that’s intimidating then leggings are a great option! Yoga gear or cycling gear are good parallels for us.

Headlamp or Waterproof Flashlight:

Sunglasses: It’s SoCal so you better be prepared. Any polarized pair will do but it’s really nice if they can float!

Dry Bag: Store your essentials in a waterproof bag to keep them safe and dry.

Paddle Zip-Up Jacket: A little extra room in the shoulders goes a long way for paddlers, plus you can unzip and take it off when you get hot. Not sure what that looks like? Check out these options!

Wool Socks: My personal favorite footwear item – wool keeps you warm even when it’s wet!

Sunglasses Strap: Yikes! You will loose your sunglasses one day, why not delay as long as possible.

Water Proof Pouch for Keys: Keep your valuables dry! Plus if you take your cards with you, you can always stop for a quick bite or drink halfway through your paddle.

Water Parka: Spulrge on this! A water parka is great when you get of the water on a colder day and you want warm up and look cool!

And, my personal favorite, a whistle!

  • Luxo whistles are LOUD and just get one, stash it in your cell phone pouch and you’ll have it when you need it!

It’s hard to hear each other on the ocean and sometimes boats coming roaring down the coast. It’s an essential piece of your kit, not expensive, AND a great stocking stuffer!
Check out more items we recommend on our Amazon store HERE!

Any gear questions? Ask away! It’s a process and I’m always happy to help.

Now, let’s go paddle!

Tim

P.S. Some of the links in this email are affiliate links, which means we earn a small percentage from each purchase. Your support helps us keep the lights on and continue bringing you awesome content and gear recommendations—thank you!