Chris Warner

Fish surfboards are quite common in the lineup, especially on small wave days. The term "fish" is applied to many types of surfboards however. So just what is a fish surfboard? There are two main types:

Longboard surfing is the best way to learn how to catch waves with a surfboard. You can learn on smaller boards but the learning curve will be steeper and more frustrating.

Big Wave surfing has always captured the imagination of surfers and non-surfers alike. California is home to three bona fide big wave surf spots: Mavericks, Ghost Trees, and Cortes Bank.

Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the ocean. For some an added benefit of kayaking in the ocean is being able to catch waves. Most kayaks can be surfed to some degree, but there are some styles better suited for surfing. Here are the most common surfing kayaks out there.

San Diego County is an ideal location to learn to surf. With many beginner surf spots, surf camps, warm water in summer, and other recreational activities, it's the perfect place to learn the art of surfing.

A surfing vacation obviously involves catching waves, but how do you narrow down all those potential travel spots to just one? A great surfing vacation can be different for every surfer. What makes it "great" is unique to every surfer and requires a balancing act between wave choice, cost, and travel partners.

Experience surfing and camping in California. Here are some places to go.

Surfing in water temps of 65 and below demand the use of a cold water wetsuit. Choose a fullsuit with the appropriate thickness.

Every surfer should develop a fitness routine to stay in top wave catching shape. This should include some exercise other than surfing.

Here are descriptions of various types of surfboards. Longboards, funboards, shortboards, fish--there's no good or bad type. The kind of board you ride depends on many things, such as wave conditions and your size, stance, experience, and physical fitness.