Your first surf lesson: what to expect
From the safety talk on the sand to your first wave in the white water, the two hours step by step.
Stand-up paddle on the Shambhavi backwater
Where to go, when to paddle and what to watch for on the river behind the Sasihithlu sandbar.
Behind the beach at Sasihithlu, the Shambhavi river runs parallel to the sea before meeting it at the river mouth. The water here is flat, sheltered and lined with mangroves, which makes it one of the quietest places on the coast to learn stand-up paddle.
The best time is early morning, between 6.30 and 9, before the wind picks up. The light is soft, fishermen are bringing in their nets and egrets stand in the shallows. Evenings can be lovely too, but the wind is stronger and paddling back upriver takes more effort.
Our usual route goes upstream from our launch point, past the mangroves and a row of fishing boats, to a small island and back. It is about four kilometres and takes an hour and a half at an easy pace. Beginners kneel for the first few minutes, then stand once they feel steady.
There are two things to watch. Near the river mouth the current can be strong on a falling tide, so we stay well upstream of it, and you should too if you rent a board. And fishing nets are sometimes strung across part of the river; paddle around them, never over them. Wear a life vest, a hat and sunscreen, and carry water. Phones go in a dry bag. If you fall in, the water is warm and the board will be right beside you.
