Between Swells: Change of Pace

Never judge a book by its cover is a half true statement. But there are many times that cover is exactly what it is. Waves should never be judged on their first impression. At first glance a wave or beach can be a site of beauty and perfection but as days go that wave can have many different shapes, crowds and forms. A first surf at a spot when it is awful does not mean it is always going to be awful. There have been many occasions where a group of us show up at a spot and we have to tell the newcomer this is not what it usually looks like, in a good way or bad.

Yesterday we arrived in Nosara and are staying in Playa Guiones. The book cover to me says laid back, so far I think I am dead on. The surf's book cover was as magnificent as the sunset last night. It was a thing of beauty. Even with the light onshore the sets peeled in both directions. The paddle into the waves were easy with a smooth transition down the face of the waves. Yesterdays sunset session is in top 3 of the trip so far. I got out of the water early to watch the sunset with Laura to find her chatting with some VANOC friends. Smile on all our faces I was asked if I wanted to go back out. Like a fat kid in a Mcdonalds I ran back in to pick as many waves as possible. I know the waves will not always be like that but you have to enjoy it while they are there. We will see what today and the rest of our time here has to offer.

Our time in Tamarindo is over and I think with the 6 weeks we spent in 2007 and the month now we have definitley got a feel for the town. Would I go back? Yes, but I would look elsewhere first. Would I recommend it? Yes if it is what you are looking for, good food, nice beaches and security. The town has everything one needs to be comfortable and more. The vibe is great. Some say Tamarindo is full of drugs and prostitution and that the place has changed. If you are partying every night you will find all the weird stuff, creepy guys, drunks and drugs, but if you are hanging out enjoying the town you will see none of it. Tamarindo is the birth place of my surfing and I will always remember that.

On a second glance at Guiones this morning, the waves were great once again. The blog has been delayed all day due to me getting back into the water. I scored some awesome rights and lefts. The waves do not get hollow but there is tons of long sections to attack on your board and ramps on the inside. I am really liking the area and hope to adventure around a bit. Laura is going to pick up some yoga classes, which I will eventually make my way as well.