Being an inland surfer was always frustrating. My parents would regularly make coastal strips so I could surf. Being introduced to the ocean from an early age was fantastic. Finding surfing soon after was also amazing. Having to leave the beach not so much.
Fast forward to my teens and I was adamant that a coastal life was for me. Sure enough, after making the decision to head abroad first (for work) it was then back to an English seaside resort. Surfing (and now windsurfing) were still very much focal activities. And when paddle boarding arrived on the scene that was quickly adopted too.
The ebb and flow of tide is like a gravitational clock that dictates which part of the beach we head for. Weather tells us what type of fun we’re going to have once at the beach. This is pretty similar for a lot of others who live close to the water, regardless of whether they actually dunk or not.
When family comes along we parents want to pass on as much of our enthusiasm for the sea as we can. The outdoors in general is where we and our offspring tend to spend the majority of our time. Hemmed in towns and cities aren’t preferable – especially with how things have been the last few years. Windswept, open beaches with ample spaces are much more preferable.
Anybody who lives in close proximity to the sea (and I’m talking within a few miles) tends to revolve their life around conditions and the ever changing elements. It doesn’t matter if these people never dip a toe in the drink, you can bet your bottom Dollar they still make full use of their locale. Whether that be brisk winter walks, the wind and rain whipping at faces; Mother Nature letting you know you’re alive; enjoying sundown drinks and barbies during summer or anything else you can think of! The draw of the beach and sea is tangible.
There’s also a certain attitude that tends to prevail within coastal folk. For the most part, there’s generally a more relaxed attitude to life. Of course, everybody has issues to deal with but a big lung of salty air tends to put things into perspective and clear headspace.There’s no better therapy than being at the coast.
Enjoying an outdoors lifestyle with plenty of time afloat is important. This can be across a variety of disciplines including SUP. But it isn’t just limited to water. Cycling along coastal paths simply strolling next to water is just as enjoyable.
Mother Nature’s moods are never the same on any given day. For anyone who wants to maximise their time on the brine cross discipline indulgence is the only way to go. Whilst one day might be flat calm and perfect for SUP touring the next could be full power wind and waves: great for wind or kitesurf.
One thing stand up paddling has been responsible for is opening minds. Some of those swinging a paddle have seen the benefits of other watersports with synergy (which are most). This diversity is typical of UK coastal folk who go afloat regularly.
Coastal living can be a tad more complicated. Employment opportunities, for instance, aren’t as widespread. If you’re considering a coastal relocation then you may have to dig a little deeper to get exactly what you want, but persevere and you’ll get there. Or, alternatively, if you can make your own opportunities, then do so.
Living within small communities can see cabin fever develop – especially if you’re used to a lot more people being around. This is offset by the readiness and willingness of your neighbors to get stuck in, help out when necessary and generally enjoy a heightened sense of community spirit. …
Understandably not everyone is in a position to up sticks and relocate to the coast. And SUP isn’t just about paddling on tidal waters. It’s also not always holiday vibes as many would have you believe. Off seasons can be bleak indeed but serve up some great conditions – particularly if you’re after waves or wind! But if you’re committed to an ocean way of life, and are in a position to move, then I’d recommend it without question.
The sea, the beach, the ambiance and everything else you get from being a coastal type is worth its weight in gold.
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