The Rhode Island surf culture is so
underrated that it’s almost a crime that a lot of surfers, beginners and
experts alike, disregard what the little state has to offer. While the surf RI
industry is not at the level of Hawaii, California or even Bali in Indonesia,
it does have its own charms that more and more surfers are acknowledging. If
you fancy yourself a surfer, even if you’re just beginning, you have to check
it out.
Don’t let its small stature fool you. After
all, there’s a reason why it’s called “the Ocean State”. It boasts of more than
640 kilometers of coastline that has over a hundred beaches. With these
numbers, it’s safe to say that you can find a good experience.
It’s
the Warmest Among New England States
Not a lot of people will argue against the
fact that Rhode Island offers the best surf experience compared to the other
New England states. You just have to take a look at a Rhode Island surf report.
While surf conditions vary depending on the season, it’s safe to say that they’re
often favorable.
For example, the water temperature is often
10 degrees warmer than other New England states. For example, 62 degrees is
considered to be normal around early June in Rhode Island when it’s around 52
degrees in the other New England states. Once July rolls in, you can enjoy a
surf RI experience even without a wetsuit on.
You
can Expect Fairly Good Swells
Rhode Island has the benefit of a good
geographical orientation of west to east. During the summer when winds come out
from the south and southwest, it leads to good sized swells. This is especially
true on beaches that face the south.
Swells range from 2 to 8 feet around March.
While these are good sized swells, locals look forward to hurricane season. If
you want the best Rhode Island surf experience, monitor the Rhode Island surf
report during hurricane season. You’ll be salivating.
There
are a Lot of Beginners
If you can’t be bothered with kooks, then
it can be a frustrating experience for you. However, remember that you were
once a kook, so you have to be patient with them.
Besides, it just shows that Rhode Island
offers an amazing surf experience since it’s a favorite of beginners. It also
helps that it’s home to some of the best surf schools in the US like Warm
Winds. But just to set expectations, you can expect mammoth crowds especially
during the summer. Again, take it positively.
You’ll
Find Yourself Checking Out Other Attractions
While known for their beaches, Rhode Island
has a lot to offer. In fact, tourism is the 2nd largest industry in
the state, with Narragansett Bay providing most of the attractions. With a lot
of things to do in RI, a weekend vacation wouldn’t be enough.
This also means that you’ll enjoy the state
even if you’re not really looking to surf. There’s something for everybody that
they will enjoy.