Sunday Services

This is the scene at Trinidad, California, every Sunday morning: Michael Morris leads a group of paddlers out around Trinidad Head. Everyone passes southbound through the “slot” in Prisoner Rock. They play in the swell along the cliff face beneath the Trinidad lighthouse and then head along the coast. On the way back it is customary to pass through Prisoner Rock the other way. Isn’t it funny how each little paddling tribe has its own traditions? 

The day I was there, there was an 8 ft swell at 10 seconds from the northwest and no wind. Even this late in July the temperature was in the mid 60s. Foggy and overcast. Hey look at me -- I'm using one of those EuroBlades!

A few members of the group launched through the surf at Trinidad State Beach, while the rest of us launched from the protected water on the other side of the headland in the harbor. A shipment of 6 of Sterling Donalson’s Illusions just arrived at Adventure’s Edge the day before, so a few members of the group were taking their kayaks for their maiden voyages.

Probably the most exciting feature in Trinidad is “Smack Wall”. Smack Wall is the cliff that faces northwest, just a little north of the lighthouse on Trinidad Head. I think the idea here is to get as close as you can to it, and when a big wave comes in and rebounds against the wall you can surf it out. Check out my video. That's Helen Wilson in the Greenland skin-on-frame, tuilik and blue helmet, showing off shamelessly for the camera.

Other than sleeping in, I can’t think of a better way to spend Sunday morning!

Comments

[Rob G]

That was really good, Andrew. Nice little flick.

Rob

[Sean Smith - Fat Paddler]

That looks like so much fun! I've just started experimenting with a Greenland paddle and its good to see other paddlers out in some real swell using this type of blade. Can't wait to see more pics! :)