Sea & Travel

Beach Sports and Activities

Beach Sports and Activities

Beach sports and activities are an excellent way to make the most of your time at the shore! There’s plenty of enjoyable activities like building sandcastles, playing volleyball or sunbathing – there’s something for everyone.

Surfing has been around for centuries and continues to be one of the world’s most beloved watersports. If you love the ocean, surfing should definitely be on your bucket list!

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is a sport where players use their hands to hit balls over a high net. This sport can be found worldwide, with two teams competing against one another on rectangular courts divided into two sections. While most matches are played by women, male players are permitted to join the action too.

Beach Volleyball is an intensely physical sport that requires great physical stamina and endurance, especially for beginners. If you’re new to the game, it’s best to find a group of people who understand its rules and play at similar skill level.

Volleyball may seem intimidating at first glance, but it’s an incredibly fun and demanding sport to play. If you’re interested in trying something new, give it a shot!

In this sport, it’s essential to have a good sense of where the ball will go and what it’s going to do. Furthermore, communicate with your teammates so they know what tasks need to be completed on court.

Many players make the mistake of hitting the ball too hard, which can lead to injury. Therefore, it’s essential that you only hit the ball when it’s in a safe zone and not too hard.

When playing beach volleyball, the first thing you should learn is how to serve the ball. You do this by touching it over with either your hand, fist or arm into your opponent’s court and not hitting it back.

Once the serve is made, frontline players switch positions in what’s known as a “6 up” defense. This consists of two blockers in front of the net, one player in front of the middle block and three outside players outside of the court perimeter.

During a service, the team serving can touch the ball three times on their side of the net: with a dig (an underarm pass), set (an overhead pass) and spike – an attacking shot that has great power.

Ultimate Frisbee

Ultimate frisbee is an exciting sport played on either grass or beach fields. It’s ideal for having fun with friends and family, as well as suitable for groups of all ages.

Team Frisbee is a team sport played by men, women and mixed teams alike. The aim is to score points by catching the disc (called the Frisbee) in your end zone and passing it onto another player on the field. Regulated by “Spirit of the Game”, self-officiated means players make all calls rather than depending on referees for fouls.

The game is played on a rectangular field with two end zones. Teams switch ends after each point and the first team to catch the disc in their end zone wins that point.

There are certain rules that must be observed when playing Frisbee, such as passing only. If a player in possession of the disc runs or touches down, they lose control and the other team gains possession. Additionally, if it gets caught outside of playfield boundaries, possession switches to whomever catches it and they must run upfield to return it to their own end zone.

If you’re new to ultimate, start by practicing making short, accurate passes with your teammates. Doing this will improve your quickness and accuracy on the fly, enabling you to intercept more passes.

Once you become proficient at making quick passes, it’s time to learn how to throw the frisbee with control and accuracy. Without practice, your throws could become unpredictable and unstable, making them harder for others to catch.

One of the most critical skills to develop for ultimate is defensive play reading. This skill enables you to anticipate when your opponent will change plays and make their next move. By inculcating this information into your subconscious mind, it will boost your defensive confidence and allow for those interceptions!

Beginner ultimate frisbee players often rush their throws, which makes them less accurate and stable. As a defender, this can be a costly mistake; practice making quick, accurate passes and moving quickly down the field to throw off opponents and keep them off balance.

Skimboarding

Skimboarding is a beach sport where you ride a board across the surface of the water. Compared to surfing, which requires you to catch waves, skimboarding offers greater versatility and ease of learning. It can be performed in all kinds of water conditions – making it an excellent way to burn some calories!

Skimboarding, like other sports, takes a lot of practice to become proficient. That is why it is recommended to start with a beginner’s board and get plenty of practice under your belt. Furthermore, keep in mind that skimboarding can be dangerous if you don’t know how to use it correctly.

If you are new to skimboarding, the first step should be finding a secure practice area. This could be either your local park or beach depending on where you live. Furthermore, make sure the area is well maintained with no rocks or other hazards present.

When selecting a board for yourself, the right size matters. This depends on your height and how often you plan to ride it. Beginners should opt for smaller boards so they are easier to manage and control, while experts should opt for larger boards with extra room to stand on and float.

Finally, when practicing for your sailing lessons, try to choose days with calm seas and avoid waves. Doing so will make it harder to maintain your balance when there are waves present.

Start by holding the skimboard in both hands and standing in shallow water at least a few inches deep. Throw it from this starting position several times so that you get familiar with its feel; this will guarantee no momentum is lost when taking a step on.

Skimboards come in a range of materials, such as wood, fiberglass or plastic. Wooden skimboards typically have an hpl bottom while those made with fiberglass usually have a flat bottom.

Kite Surfing

Kitesurfing is a water sport in which riders use boards with wings attached that enable them to glide across the waves. There are various styles of kitesurfing, which can be enjoyed for leisure or competitive purposes; wave riding, freestyle, course racing and speed racing being some of the more popular choices.

Although kiteboarding can be a hazardous sport, it’s also relatively safe and straightforward to learn if you take the proper safety precautions. Always wear your helmet, goggles and life vest, plus have an experienced instructor with you at all times. Furthermore, physical fitness is necessary so that your body weight won’t be pulled by the kite’s pull.

Most people who want to try kitesurfing begin with a 3-day course at a kite surfing school. This is an ideal way to get your feet wet and gain confidence in the sport.

Once you have the fundamentals down, it is time to learn some advanced tricks and maneuvers. This takes time so be patient and practice often for optimal success.

Kites come in a range of weights and materials; some are lightweight while others more durable. Leading edge inflatable (LEI) kites are popular among beginners due to their responsiveness to inputs and easy relaunch capabilities if you drop them into the water.

Selecting the correct kite can make a big difference in your performance, as it determines how much power is necessary. Bigger kites are best suited for beginners while smaller ones offer greater challenge to more experienced riders.

Kitesurfing is an exhilarating water sport that can be enjoyed by everyone. Not only does it provide exercise and coordination, but it’s also great to clear your mind and have some fun in the sun!

If you have never kitesurfed before, research the best beach for kitesurfing. To begin with, you will need a kite, board and harness; once that is in place, find an area with consistent winds as well as a quality kite school to aid in your development.

Coastal Walking Tours

Coastal Walking Tours

Coastal Walking Tours offer an immersive way to discover a region’s beauty without worrying about getting lost. These tours often include lesser-used paths that are guided by an expert tour guide who knows the area well.

Experience the beauty of Coastal Walking Tours on foot! With miles of golden beaches and sparkling seas to explore, these tours are the perfect way to stay active while having a great time. Whether you want to take in the scenery or learn about local culture, you’re sure to love these excursions!

1. You’ll Get the Best Photos

Coastal Walking Tours provide the ideal balance of activity and relaxation, with breathtaking ocean views and picturesque locations to stop for lunch or a refreshing dip. It’s no surprise why these tours have become such popular choices with Exodus guests. From Italy’s Cinque Terre coastline to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, there is something special about taking a walk along these shores.

No matter your destination, make sure your itinerary is clearly laid out and easy to follow. Consider factors like walkability and how walker-friendly the route is, as well as distances between stops. Depending on the season, you may also want to recommend umbrellas or rain boots so tour-takers are prepared for any potential weather events.

Finally, make sure to create an informative and captivating description for each of your stops, so tour-goers can absorb all pertinent details and have the best experience. Taking these extra steps will help make your tour stand out from competitors and guarantee it’s a success! You won’t regret it – so get planning now for your next adventure!

2. You’ll Get to Know the Locals

Coastal Walking Tours are ideal for travelers who want to get to know the locals and experience the culture of their destination. Unlike other tours that focus on big cities or tourist attractions, ours take you off the beaten path into small towns and private beaches to uncover the culture of a region. You’ll meet people living there who live there, and learn about their way of life through stories told by those living there.

We ensure you have ample time to fully experience the culture during your tour, with plenty of free time included to take in all the sights you wish to see. Plus, with typically only 8-10 guests per group, you’ll get up close and personal with locals as you spend time on foot.

The classic Coast to Coast walk across England is an ideal way to experience local culture firsthand. It starts in the Lake District and winds its way through Yorkshire Dales, featuring historic castles, picturesque stone villages and country pubs. Finally, you’ll finish in North York Moors, a region of moody moorlands and stunning long vistas that will truly take your breath away.

3. You’ll Get a Taste of the Culture

Coastal Walking Tours offer an immersive way to experience the local culture. Many include visits to popular restaurants and landmarks, giving you a better idea of where you’re going as well as making arriving in town easier on your own much smoother.

No matter where you visit in the world – be it a big city like Paris or a smaller one like Queens, New York – each town has its own distinct cultural offerings. Take for instance, taking a foodie tour of Queens will let you sample all the different cuisines available there. From sushi to Greek fare, restaurants provide something for everyone on your dining list.

The great thing about these tours is that they’re led by local experts. You’ll gain invaluable knowledge of the area and make friends with other tourists along the way. Plus, you get to see all of Chicago’s major sights as well as lesser-known spots waiting to be discovered – making for an excellent way to make the most of your stay here! After your tour is complete, you’ll feel satisfied and ready to explore on your own.

4. You’ll Get to See the Natural Beauty

Walking along the coast is an excellent way to enjoy all that this area has to offer. From cliff tops and beaches, to hiking through forests, and admiring all types of wildlife that live along its edge, taking photos along the way is sure to be a memorable experience. Popular landmarks in San Francisco such as Golden Gate Bridge or San Francisco Bay make great photo ops!

Coastal Walking Tours offer the ideal way to appreciate an area’s natural splendor without worrying about getting lost or missing out on what you want to see. Guided by knowledgeable local guides who know the best routes, these tours guarantee that you don’t miss any sights that matter most to you.

Trips can also be an excellent opportunity to learn about the local culture of an area. For instance, visiting Italy’s Amalfi Coast allows you to visit fishing villages and observe daily life there. Plus, you’ll get to observe how food is prepared as well as gain insight into the traditions of those living there.

Another great benefit of coastal walking tours is that they can improve your fitness and strength. As rivers flow into the sea and glaciers sculpt the landscape, there will be plenty of chances to stretch those muscles during your stroll. And of course, afterward you can always cool off with a swim! For photography buffs, ask your guide for tips on capturing stunning photos!

5. You’ll Get to Experience the Local Culture

Coastal Walking Tours provide you with an intimate understanding of the culture in each region. You’ll have time to interact with knowledgeable locals who know the area well, as well as listen intently to their tales.

A European coastal walking tour can be an amazing way to take in the countryside and admire its natural splendor. Additionally, you may get to witness some of the country’s best wildlife as well.

Walking along the Atlantic coastline can be an enchanting experience and offers visitors a glimpse of a country’s culture.

Our Coastal Walking Tours offer an immersive experience of the Golden Gate Coast’s natural splendor while learning some interesting history. On these tours, you may spot marine mammals like sea lions and harbor seals as well as migrating gray whales.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, our Coastal Walking Tours feature an experienced photographer on staff to help take the perfect photos of the breathtaking beaches and coastline. Ben Davidson is a nationally published photographer with years of experience traveling around the world; he would be delighted to share his knowledge with you!

On a Coastal Walking Tour, there are so many ways to discover the culture of an area. From Maine’s rugged shorelines to Italy’s vibrant villages, taking this journey can be an incredibly humbling experience that will remain with you forever!

Beach Hopping Guide to the Best Beaches on Phuket

Beach hopping is one of the top activities to do in Phuket and with so many stunning beaches on this island, it’s no surprise why it attracts visitors from all over.

It’s easy to get lost in the beauty of all that white sand and crystal blue waters, but to ensure your beach trip is a great success, try these simple tricks!

1. Karon Beach

Karon Beach is a beloved stretch of sand that rarely feels crowded and offers plenty of resorts, restaurants and activities for visitors to enjoy. The soft white sand and turquoise-blue waters make it the ideal place for swimming or sunbathing.

Water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing will keep you entertained. Plus, you can go scuba diving to explore the surrounding reefs.

The beach is usually not busy during the day, but becomes busiest at sunset when people gather to take in the stunning sights. You can easily stroll along the sand and find a spot to relax while taking in all of nature’s splendor.

On the southern shoreline, a large lake and cycle path offer great jogging routes. Additionally, this park boasts a dinosaur theme park as well as a small craft market where local souvenirs can be purchased.

For a more peaceful environment, try visiting Kata Yai and Kata Noi beaches – less developed but still serene. Don’t forget about Boo Island either – an iconic coral reef perfect for snorkeling.

For an unforgettable experience, visit Karon Temple Market on Tuesdays and Fridays for a lively market full of food stalls. It’s an ideal chance to mingle, make new friends, and sample authentic Thai street foods.

Another excellent option is Access Resort & Villas, which provides spacious rooms with free-form pools and furnished patios that open directly onto the pool. It has a small gym, babysitting services, a game room, and multiple dining options.

Families will enjoy the Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, which features waterslides, a lazy river, an expansive outdoor pool as well as family-friendly dining and bar options.

Finally, for something different than just beach food, check out On The Rock Restaurant at Marina Phuket Resort. This romantic eatery has an idyllic view of the sea and serves fresh seafood with a twist.

For a stylish and modern nightclub experience, Centara Grand Beach Resort’s Coast Beach Club is worth visiting. Here, guests can enjoy cocktails while admiring the sea view. Compared to other nightclubs in town, it has more modern decor so it makes for a great destination for relaxation during their stay.

2. Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach on Phuket’s west coast is more sedate than Patong and ideal for families or those seeking peace and serenity.

Kamala Beach is a two-kilometer long sandy beach that attracts families with stunning sunset views to the west. Sheltered by Kamala Bay, there are various restaurants and bars along the shore as well as massage shops, tailors, spas and five-star resorts.

Kamala Beach offers calm, clear water from November to April during the dry season, making it a prime swimming spot. Sun loungers can be rented for 100 baht per day and some vendors sell snorkelling gear on-site.

The beach is an idyllic spot to laze around and enjoy a drink during the day, with its wide expanse of soft sand and swaying palm trees. The northern end of the beach tends to be less crowded than its southern counterpart and offers breathtaking sunset views.

On the main road that runs parallel to the beach, you’ll find several hotels of high quality at affordable prices. Some even feature pools and offer a small village atmosphere with friendly service.

Another excellent option is Cape Sienna Resort & Spa at Kamala Beach’s northern end. This breathtaking resort has stunning panoramic views overlooking the bay, with all rooms featuring a sea view – from studio apartments to suites complete with their own private pool.

This apartment complex is situated in a tranquil residential area and boasts an array of restaurants that cater to all budgets – from beachfront breakfast to fine dining with stunning ocean views. Not only is the food delicious and service impeccable, but this budget-friendly spot also makes for great budget stays when visiting Phuket.

If you’re in the mood for a nightcap on Kamala Beach, Cafe Del Mar and Pine Beach Bar are two popular beach bars that appeal to both locals and visitors alike.

3. Bang Tao Beach

Bang Tao Beach, situated on the west coast of Phuket, is a long stretch of white sand beaches framed by lush forest and trees. It’s one of Phuket’s most stunning beaches and an ideal spot to unwind and relax.

Bang Tao Beach is much quieter and less touristy than Patong Beach, which can get quite crowded with sunbeds, umbrellas and jet skis. It makes for a lovely spot for romantic walks along the water’s edge or simply taking in the stunning scenery.

On this beach you will find several excellent restaurants, particularly on Boat Avenue where you can have a memorable lunch, dinner or simply enjoy some drinks. Popular choices include Catch Beach Club and Peppers Sports Bar.

Phuket’s best beach for swimming and snorkelling, Longtail boats can take you out offshore for even better diving and exploring the reef at either end. With such beautiful sand, why not come early for some great underwater action?

At Laguna Phuket beach, there are plenty of activities to enjoy including surfing (best at the north end between May and October), jet skiing, paddle boarding, parasailing and banana boat rides. While the Laguna Phuket complex – featuring five luxury hotels and an 18-hole golf course – dominates much of the beachfront, it is still easy to find a quiet corner to unwind.

Many hotels along this beach offer an array of dining options, from the luxurious Dusit Thani Hotel to budget-friendly seafood eateries just steps from the shoreline.

Another excellent option is Outrigger Laguna Hotel, where you can savor a meal at one of their numerous restaurants. They offer both Thai and western fare with stunning beachfront views to match.

For some extra entertainment, Blue Tree water park is the perfect spot for you and the kids. They have various rides and games in the water as well as a rock climbing wall and Ninja Warrior obstacle course to conquer!

4. Kata Beach

Kata Beach is one of Phuket’s finest beaches, known for its golden sand and tranquil waters. It’s ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, and spending quality time with family (especially during peak season).

Kata Beach offers plenty of activities, but for those seeking a bit more peace and quiet, two smaller beaches – Kata Noi and Kata Yai – are less developed than its larger counterpart at the southern end.

Kata Yai is the more popular of the two towns, boasting more restaurants and bars. There’s also a bustling night market along the road where you can sample Thai food, shop for souvenirs, get a traditional Thai massage or have your ears pierced.

If you’re interested in snorkeling, there are several spots along the beach where to do so. You can rent equipment and go out on your own or hire a boat to take you out. Alternatively, book kayaking tours for added excitement!

Hikers can venture up to Kata viewpoint for stunning views of Karon and Kata Yai beaches, as well as Ko Pu, a small island off the coast that can be spotted during sunset.

When looking for hotels and resorts close to the beach, there is no shortage of choices. Most have excellent access, with the exception of Boathouse and Beyond Resort Kata which provide direct beach access.

On the beach, restaurants tend to be casual and unique, offering both local Thai cuisine and gourmet dining experiences. Many offer breathtaking ocean views, plus excellent seafood dishes.

Surfing is a popular activity in Phuket, and Kata Beach provides some excellent spots to test it out. There are several surf schools on the beach where you can rent equipment or take lessons.

Another popular activity is island hopping, which offers stunning views of some of Thailand’s most stunning islands. You can book day trips online in advance or visit one of the many tourist information booths around town to find out more about available packages and rates.

Surfing Lessons

Picture yourself standing atop a Ka Papa Heenalu (surfboard) in Maui’s stunning waters. Your feet planted firmly and arms out to your sides, you stay balanced as hundreds of admiring beachgoers watch you conquer each wave with admiration!

Surfing is one of the most thrilling water sports. However, in order to fully appreciate this activity, some level of skill is necessary.

Safety

Surfing can be a fun activity to do with friends, but it’s essential to remember that this sport involves the ocean and you must be prepared for any situation. This is especially crucial if you are new to surfing or the area.

Surfing in the ocean can be hazardous due to various hazards like big waves, jellyfish and sharks.

Large waves carry a lot of energy and can cause serious injuries such as fractures, drowning, or even death. To protect yourself from a large wave, surf smaller waves, avoid crowded beaches and reef breaks, and only surf when conditions are safe.

Before you go surfing, it’s wise to take a lesson. This will give you an understanding of the sport and its dangers and enable you to be safer while enjoying yourself during your adventure.

When surfing in cold water, always wear appropriate clothing and safety equipment like a wetsuit. Doing so can prevent you from getting the dreaded surfer’s ear, which can cause intense pain and discomfort if it occurs.

Wearing a wetsuit will keep you from getting overheated and dehydrated, keeping the experience safer while making it more enjoyable since there won’t be any need to constantly stop and warm up.

Finally, mastering swimming is paramount for staying afloat during an emergency. Not knowing how to swim can increase your risk of drowning significantly – particularly for beginners who are unfamiliar with deep waters. Knowing how to swim will enable you to remain afloat longer.

Communicating with friends and coach while surfing can be beneficial, as they will be alert to any problems in the water. They can assist you in an emergency and protect you from becoming a victim of rip currents or colliding into other surfers.

Equipment

Surfing is an activity in which you ride waves on a board. It provides great exercise and the chance to appreciate nature; plus, surfing may improve your health by relieving stress.

To maximize your surfing experience, you’ll need certain equipment. This includes a surfboard, wetsuit and leash. The leash helps keep you connected to the board so that it won’t get lost during waves. Make sure the length of the leash is long enough so as not to trip or slip on the beach.

Surfboards are essential equipment for surfers. There are different boards designed for different levels of experience and wave conditions, so it’s best to consult a professional before purchasing one.

Beginners should opt for a longboard, while more experienced surfers should consider short boards or soft tops. When selecting your surfboard, ensure it fits correctly according to your height, weight and skill level.

If you want to take it one step further, invest in surf fins that will enhance your performance and enable more waves to catch. Furthermore, investing in a waterproof camera allows for capture of moments as they happen – an excellent way to document your journey and share it with friends and family.

A wetsuit is a type of clothing designed to protect you from the water’s harsh rays. While there are different varieties for different climates and conditions, their purpose remains the same: keeping you warm and comfortable while surfing.

It is essential to select a wetsuit designed specifically for water sports. Furthermore, use sunscreen to shield yourself from the sun’s damaging rays.

Finally, make sure you bring a surfboard bag for all of your equipment when travelling. This will protect the board from scratches and dings while in transit and allow you to store other items conveniently.

You should invest in a surf watch to monitor weather and wave conditions while surfing. These watches provide information about tidal wave height, wind speed, and direction. Furthermore, these tools can assist with forecasting when to hit the waves and when not.

Waves

Waves are an integral part of surfing, and understanding their different characteristics will enable you to anticipate when and where surf will hit. This not only makes you a better surfer but it saves time and energy when out surfing.

Waves are created by a combination of factors, including wind, water depth and sea bed roughness. These elements can cause waves to go high or low in their crests, ultimately determining how they break.

Wind speed, duration and fetch can all have an effect on how high or low a wave’s crest is, which then determines whether it breaks left or right.

Reading waves is one of the most difficult skills for a surfer to master, yet it is an invaluable asset that will propel you on your way towards becoming an accomplished surfer. Accurately assessing a wave and accurately judging its size are invaluable skills that will serve you well not only during your initial waves but throughout your entire surfing career.

It is essential to recognize the difference between ocean waves and ground swells, as these two types of waves behave very differently. When a ground swell arrives in open ocean, its wavelength is much longer, meaning its face isn’t steep enough for surfing.

As the swell approaches a coastline, its wavelength decreases and height increases; this causes it to transform into a wave that is steeper and more powerful – known as either beach break or reef break.

Point breaks, formed alongside a headland and capable of breaking over either sand or rock, offer longer waves than beach or reef breaks and may be ideal for new surfers to try their skills at. These spots often have less surfers in attendance but still provide an enjoyable challenge.

On a surfing lesson, the instructor will give you some tips on reading waves. They’ll show you what the peak looks like and where it’s likely to break in order for you to decide which way to paddle out. They may also instruct on pop-ups and turns as well as how to accelerate and brake efficiently.

Communication

Communication is an integral component of surfing lessons, both when learning to surf and while out in the ocean. Even simple greetings like “good morning” or offering an apology when running into someone can make a huge difference in your relationship with other surfers.

Furthermore, the camaraderie among surfers is strong and can be immensely rewarding. Spending time catching up with others in the lineup about their exploits is one of the most enjoyable parts of a day spent out in the ocean.

The surfing community has its own set of rules and language that may seem strange to those outside it. But once you get used to it, the fun starts!

It’s essential to remember that many people enjoy the ocean just as much as you do, so it’s up to us all to keep its environment in check. This could include picking up any plastic bags that have fallen into the water or even passing your wave off to another surfer.

Avoid any potential disputes with other surfers by communicating effectively during your lessons. Encourage students to ask you questions in between waves if they have any. Doing this is an excellent way for them to learn about surf culture and get to know you better while they’re out on the water!

While surfing, it is important to abide by the right of way rules. If unsure who has priority, ask another surfer and they can tell you who has priority.

There are certain rules for avoiding collisions with other surfers, such as dropping in on the wave you plan on riding and not sitting directly in front of an oncoming surfer while paddling out. Doing this will reduce the chance of a collision and should be practiced by all surfers–experienced or just starting out–regardless of experience level.