![]() Then there’s the margaritas and ocean views at Ola Mexican Kitchen, among a handful of worthwhile newer haunts that also includes Simmzy’s with its long list of local brews and creative fish tacos ideal for a beach picnic, and Sessions West Coast Deli, where even the “skinny” breakfast burrito is the size of your forearm. Run by local surfers Tim and Michele Turner, the Sugar Shack has been a buzzing, family-operated breakfast joint since 1967. It feels kind of like a surf-themed Applebee’s, but much tastier, especially its mountainous macadamia nut ice cream dessert (Kimo’s Hula Pie), for which some regulars visit exclusively. Iconic dining haunts include Duke’s on the pier, named after Duke Kahanamoku. Bolsa Chica, just north of Huntingon Beach proper, is the place to find gentle rollers suitable for novice wave riders. In fall and winter, when surf swell is larger, you likely won’t be riding your first waves near the Huntington Beach Pier, as that is a more advanced wave. The dude also knows every single local getting out of the water, from the competitive surfers dialing their next big trick to the guy who launched surfboard fin manufacturer Futures. McKinnon is famous for guiding first-timers onto their feet – sometimes on their very first wave – and also for his one-of-a-kind adaptive surf and paddle programs. ![]() The whole experience is reminiscent of your dad teaching you how to ride a bike without training wheels. He steadies the board as you crawl on and shouts instructions while releasing the board into a wave as you scramble - but hopefully one day leap gracefully - to your feet. Then McKinnon accompanies you into the water, coaching every step of the way as you navigate the breakers. Then, while still on the sand, you lie on your belly to simulate paddling and jumping to your feet. The tight-fitting neoprene is much needed most of the year, although the Pacific can stay quite warm through October on this part of the coast. First, you need to succeed in what McKinnon refers to as “the toughest aspect” of the sport: squeezing into a wetsuit. Pro surfer Rocky McKinnon begins his private surf lessons with a simple overview of oceanography, drawing in the sand to illustrate the forces behind waves. Photo: McKinnon Surf & SUP Lessons/Facebook
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