Basic HTML Version
34
winter
|
spr ing
the horizon before crest-
ing across the reef, backlit by
the setting sun and the distinct
silhouette of a dolphin surfing in-
side the wave; it is most definitely a
spiritual moment, one that any diehard
surfer would cherish.
Cruising up and down the coast in a
never-ending search for food, small pods of
typically six to ten coastal
bottlenose dolphins leave
indelible marks on beach
walkers and surfers alike.
They are the true locals at any
surf hangout as they spew ocean
mist from their blowholes. They
make us slow down and appreciate
nature as it unfolds before us, “surfing”
as only they can, while breaching out of
oncoming waves. If a human on a board is
fortunate enough, he’ll share waves with
dolphins, remain in the pocket and let
the dolphins hug the shoulder.
Harbor seals are quite comfortable
in the water and will surface within a
few feet of a surfer. Sea lions demonstrate
even more bravado, brushing the dangling
feet of a surfer sitting on a board. These
sleek swimming pinnipeds always seem to be
enjoying themselves as if the joke is on us; while
we’re waiting for a break, they’ll wave
a flipper and descend underwater for
up to 15 minutes.
It’s good to be a surfer in Montecito.
Life at Sea