Desert Wave Pool Opens, Summer Surf Spots & Safety Alerts
California just got a new surf spot that’s literally in the middle of the desert – the DSRT Surf wave pool in the Coachella Valley. Wavegarden, the Spanish tech crew behind the second U.S. wave pool, says this baby can crank out 1,000 waves per hour and offers a “definitive catalogue of more than 60 world‑class waves.” Jacob “Zeke" Szekely was testing aerial waves when he said, 'It’s the best wave pool in the world.' The barrels are so powerful you can actually take a conscious breath inside them. Sessions are slated for late summer and will start as low as $60 an hour, making it cheaper than Palm Springs Surf Club. You can read the full scoop right here.
Top Summer Chill‑Out Spots for Surfers (and Everyone Else)
If you’re looking to cool off without hitting the ocean, Southern Oregon and Northern California have a handful of lake gems. Nicole Larsen swears by Lake Siskiyou near Mount Shasta – crystal‑clear water, mountain views, and even a Splash Zone inflatable park for the kids. Other crowd‑pleasers include Lost Creek Lake’s sandy beach, Lake of the Woods’ historic lodge, Whiskeytown's strikingly clear water, and Applegate Lake's wide open spaces. River lovers can head to Griffin Park west of Grants Pass, though remember that calm pools can hide sneaky currents. Grab a kayak or just wade in – the only thing you’ll catch is a good time. For the full guide, check out this Jefferson Public Radio piece over at JPR.
Stay Safe: Hazardous Surf Alerts & Free Life‑Jacket Stations
While the waves are calling, lifeguards across California are shouting, 'Stay safe!' Sneaker waves and rip currents are on the rise, especially around Carmel‑by‑the‑Sea. State lifeguard Joe Stoffers warns, 'People not understanding the conditions and understanding this is a wild place that plays by its own rules, you have to know what's going on and just be aware of your surroundings.' Free life‑jacket stations have been installed at key beaches, and the message is clear: don’t turn your back on the ocean, keep an eye on the kids, and always chat with a lifeguard before you dive in. For the latest safety update, catch this Channel 3000 report here.
So whether you’re carving up a barrel in a desert wave pool, paddling out on a mountain lake, or just testing the surf forecast, a little preparation goes a long way. Grab your board, pack a sunscreen, and keep those eyes on the horizon. Happy summer surfing!
