A few extra pictures from January 16th

Sunday Oceanside Pier 5 PM

In January can we be any more fortunate than this? No shoveling snow for us today. In fact, the water wasn't even that cold today; I'd estimate 60 degrees. Quite a few surfers enjoying sets of up to 3-5 feet. Past the surf zone the water was glassy and lovely. Mr. R. paddled his 9 footer like a pro and even caught a wave coming in after a rigorous paddle. I was just along for the ride and the relaxation. It's amazing how light one feels when buoyed up by the weight of the water and a wet suit. The sun set while we were out at the end of the pier so we returned to shore in the gloaming-that time period between sunset and darkness.

Saturday Oceanside Pier

I went to swim earlier than usual, about 3 PM. Now, I remember why I go late in the afternoon. Too many people for me. Probably several hundred beachgoers stretched along the sand North and South of the Pier enjoying the 70 degree weather at the coast. Water temp was approximately 58 degrees and beautiful.
A couple of kayakers far out past the end of the pier, out of my vision. The water was quite flat and smooth with barely a swell out past the surf zone. A few surfers North side of pier and about 2 to 3 dozen surfers stretched along the South side of the pier.
Plenty of small breaks and corners with a decent supply of long rides on 2-3 foot waves with good shape.
I missed Mr. R. but had a good swim.

Friday Swim 4:45-5:45 PM Beautiful Sunset

Hi. Mr. R. and I made our way around the pier this afternoon in relaxed mode. Gentle swell of approximately two feet out past the breakers (small ones-about 1-3 feet). Water temp about 57 degrees. Mr R. paddled his longboard around the pier while Mr. B. lay on his back and followed along kicking with fins enjoying the sky, the half-moon, and the falling sun. On the way in half-way down the south side of the pier, a large harbor seal surfaced near us to check us out - probably 30-40 feet away from us.
Congratulations to Mr. R. for a strong effort paddling his longboard. That distance is probably a good half mile.
Thanks to the courteous surfers making space for us coming in through the surf zone.

Thursday Afternoon Swim

Plenty of parking at the Oceanside Pier. Had the ocean all to myself. I counted seven surfers at the south side of the pier. Waves were about 2 feet but the water was flat out past the surf. Water clean again. Only took about 8 minutes for my face to freeze up and stop hurting. Come on down. Approx 4:30 to 5:30 PM for a slow swim. Water temp was about 57 degrees.