Desert Waves, Lake Vibes & Safety Alerts: 2026 Summer Guide
Looking for a new surf challenge that isn’t the ocean? Head to the desert and test the latest Wavegarden tech at California’s DSRT Surf. The Coachella Valley spot just opened its doors, offering over 60 world-class waves—including a dedicated aerial training wave and a barrel called the "Twister"—all while you soak up the arid backdrop. Jacob "Zeke" Szekely calls it "the best wave pool in the world," and John Luff from Beach Street Holdings says the barrel is so long you can actually take a conscious breath inside it. Sessions start as low as $60 per hour, and the park promises a "definitive catalogue" of waves that can be churned out at 1,000 per hour. Check out the full Wavegarden story here.
Oregon & Northern California Lake Escapes
If you prefer natural waves, the Pacific Northwest has you covered. Nicole Larsen from Jefferson Public Radio swears by Lake Siskiyou for its calm water and mountain views, while river guide Alyssa Winkelman points to Griffin Park for a gentle float (but warns that calm pools can hide currents). And for those who crave real surf, local pro Richie G says the Pacific's cold water keeps even seasoned surfers humble. You can read the full guide over at Jefferson Public Radio.
California Surf Safety & Free Life‑Jacket Stations
California's beaches are beautiful, but they can be tricky. State lifeguards in Carmel‑by‑the‑Sea are urging visitors to stay off rocks, keep an eye on kids, and never turn their backs to the ocean. They’re rolling out free life‑jacket stations and reminding everyone that the ocean "plays by its own rules." As Joe Stoffers, a state lifeguard, puts it, "People not understanding the conditions… you have to know what's going on and just be aware of your surroundings." Read the safety alert over at Channel 3000.
