As to be predicted the fog rolled in thick over San Francisco during the late afternoon on the 4th of July. I spent the height of the day serving boozy strangers crabs and the like- so when things slowed and I made my way out of the Shack door, I was primed to hit the beach or grab a beer. The cold, dense fog wasn't much of a motivator but I chose to gamble and drive south.
Sure enough, as I rounded the bend on Skyline Drive and split off onto Highway 1 a distinct fog line clung to the cliffs of Daily city, leaving Pacifica in a blessed sun pocket. Excited to relish in the remaining moments of daylight I hammered the accelerator to the floor and within minutes slipped into the overcrowded parking lot at Linda Mar. The grills were fired up and festivities in full swing- thankfully leaving the water unusually empty.
A southern pulse which had entrenched itself over the weekend was sending set after set to great the sandbars of NorCal and only a light surface texture disturbed the nicely groomed lines. I hurriedly forced my way into the new XCEL suit and was sweating before I hit the water. What a novelty it is to own a functional wetsuit.
I paddled out to the center of the beach and traded waves with one other guy for the next two hours. We chatted about the perks of living in San Diego vs. the Bay Area and he mentioned how, not matter where you are, there is never a better time to surf than the Superbowl and holidays. I'd have to agree.
The waves were relaxed and playful, featuring a smattering of long lefts to choose from. Taking in the sunset on the outside we even enjoyed the small time fireworks lighting up the beach. Glove free Independence! Hoodless Freedom! This is what summer is all about.
Soon I was the last soul in the water, alone with my board and thoughts as the sun tucked behind the marine layer. Feeling just about as Patriotic as the next drunken soul, I caught one more wall to the beach and thanked my forefathers for this glorious land with a celebratory floater.
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