The Hawaiian Islands boast both a rich cultural history and impeccable natural beauty. Just off the north shore of Kauai lies the heavenly abode that is Hanalei Bay. Hanalei Bay is home to soft sands, clear waters, and an array of beautiful wildlife. Hanalei attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year.
Many of the Hawaiian Islands attract surfing enthusiasts because of their sandy shores and vibrant waters. Whether you are planning a private surf lesson near Kaanapali or exploring Hanalei, safety should be your priority. If you are traveling with families consisting of young kids, it would definitely be advisable to prioritize their safety.
With the right guidance, surf lessons can be safe, exciting, and help build confidence for the entire family. Here is what families can do to stay safe during surf lessons in Hanalei:
Research the schools
Research the schools that teach surfing. You want an instructor who is certified in CPR and first aid. You want a school that is licensed. Their priority should be safety, just as much as yours is. If the instructor has experience teaching families, that is a bonus.
Check the weather
One of the essential ways to maintain safety when surfing is to check weather patterns before entering the water. The ocean can be a dangerous place. While you can’t stop the weather from changing suddenly, you can do your best to take precautions.
Wear appropriate clothing
Ocean water is salty and can damage your skin. The temperature also varies vastly from your body temperature. Wetsuits can protect you for both of these issues. While Hanalei mostly sees warm waters, it can get pretty cold periodically. In such a situation, you and your family will need their wetsuits, which are made of neoprene and protects the skin from saltwater and regulates body temperature.
Pay attention to the guide
Your instructor is likely an expert in the field. So, when they begin giving instructions, listen carefully. At the beginning of the lesson, they will give you safety guidelines. Ensure you and your family pay close attention. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Keep an eye on the children
If there are children in your group, keep a close watch on them. Both inside and outside the water, your children should remain within your sight. Let go of anything that might cause distractions when you are monitoring your children; you want to stay alert.
Hydrate and rest
Surfing can really take it out of you. Before and after a lesson, drink plenty of water, grab a snack, and rest. You don’t want to be fatigued. If you feel like fatigue is setting in, talk to your instructor and arrange for some electrolytes.
Stay calm and collected
There is little as crucial as maintaining a calm sense of mind in the ocean. Once you have paid attention to all the instructions, you will know how to get started. Use your new knowledge to test the waters. Worry not, your instructor will be close by to help you. Give your fellow surfers their personal space when surfing. This prevents collisions and injuries.
Final thoughts
Despite the challenges of surfing, it is easy to practice safety if you pay close attention and stay alert. Within families, everyone might not function on the same energy level. It is important that you are checking in with yourself and your family to ensure everyone can have a safe and exciting experience.