Summary
Cold-Weather Surfing: A Unique Experience
For those who can tolerate it, cold-weather surfing can be just as invigorating—and crowd-free. This assertion rings especially true for anyone looking to escape the packed beaches of summer and embrace a more tranquil surfing environment.
Learning to Surf in the Rockaways
When I made the decision to learn to surf five years ago, I had different plans than the typical destinations like Malibu or Maui. Instead, I ventured to the Rockaways, specifically in the winter.
On a chilly December day, I found myself at one of New York City’s designated surf spots at Beach 69th Street. The gray sky mirrored my initial apprehensions, but the freezing water felt considerably warmer than the air. I often found myself in it after being tossed off my surfboard, and afterward, the struggle to remove my wet suit with numbed hands became a ritual.
Embracing the Local Surfing Culture
Despite the cold, I quickly became enamored not only with surfing but also with the locality itself. Once deemed illegal, surfing at this beach has developed a vibrant culture. As Diane Cardwell articulates in her memoir Rockaway: Surfing Headlong Into a New Life, it boasted a ‘rebel edge.’ Navigating winter seas offers thrilling waves, and a unique ambiance unfolds each season.
The small-town feel of the Rockaways was refreshing. A visit to the Rockaway Beach Bakery became a cherished pre-surf ritual. While enjoying coffee and a ham-and-cheese croissant, I would read The Wave, which humorously embraces local surf culture. The bakery’s pastry chef, Tracy Obolsky, shared her own journey into surfing and the community atmosphere that keeps drawing people in.
According to Obolsky, the surfing culture has significantly expanded, characterized by a tight-knit community of surf enthusiasts who embrace the cold conditions. The number of surfers in winter has progressively increased, leading to exciting and shared experiences.
The Rockaway Hotel: A New Addition
The arrival of the Rockaway Hotel in late 2020 marked a significant transformation in the area. This modern structure offers amenities for staying surfers and visitors, potentially reshaping the Rockaways from a seasonal retreat to a year-round destination. The hotel is not only catering to surfer needs, but also provides a place for corporate retreats and gatherings, all while maintaining the unique charm of Rockaway.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of surfing in the Rockaways provides an exhilarating mix of adventure, community, and local culture. This corner of New York has the potential to be more than just a summer escape; it is becoming a robust haven for surfers and beach lovers alike.
