Cloudbreak, Tavarua, Fiji 2024?

SURF TRAVEL
Are some destinations becoming out of reach?

If, like most people, you're grappling with the ever-increasing cost of living, you're not alone. From the sharp spikes in interest rates to shelling out a few hundred dollars on groceries, it feels like financial stability is slipping away. With the rising costs across the board, the feasibility of affording a premier surf trip seems rather grim for the majority.

In 2009, I seized the opportunity to travel to Fiji and stay on the island of Tavarua, where exclusive access to surfing Cloudbreak was a privilege reserved for guests. At that time, the cost was around $2720 USD per adult.

Fast forward to 2024, and the dream of staying on Cloudbreak's doorstep appears increasingly unattainable, especially if you're considering a family adventure. The price has nearly doubled, now reaching $5329 per person – a staggering 95+% increase over 14 years, equating to a $186 annual hike.

Certainly, Cloudbreak is no longer exclusive, and staying on Tavarua is no longer a prerequisite for riding the waves. Mainland accommodations and operators offering boat services to the surf are readily available. However, for those who haven't experienced staying on the island, it's an essential adventure that every surfer should undertake at least once and check off their bucket list.

The Lineup aims to make such dream experiences possible through its future plans for an exclusive community. As we lay the foundation, we invite you to share your bucket list with us. Imagine your dream destination without financial constraints – where would you go? How much would you budget? Who would accompany you? How long would your journey last? Would you bring along a photographer or videographer to immortalize your trip of a lifetime? Let us know how you'd tailor your dream experience!

TUTORIAL
The Pop-up - Back To Basics - A Brief Guide

For those captivated by the allure of the ocean and the thrill of riding the waves, surfing is not just a sport—it's a way of life. While the entire process of catching a wave and riding it to shore is exhilarating, one of the most crucial skills to master is the pop-up. The pop-up is the swift and fluid transition from a prone position on your surfboard to standing upright as you ride the wave. In this brief guide, we will break down the art of mastering the pop-up, offering you tips and techniques to help you become a more confident and capable surfer.

Understanding the Importance of the Pop-Up

The pop-up is the foundation of your entire surfing experience. It directly impacts your balance, control, and overall performance. A smooth and efficient pop-up not only helps you catch more waves but also allows you to make quicker maneuvers and maintain better balance while riding them. Here's why mastering the pop-up is so crucial:

1. Timing is Everything: Waves are constantly changing, and every second counts. A slow or cumbersome pop-up can result in missed waves, causing frustration and missed opportunities.

2. Balance and Control: The pop-up sets the stage for your stance on the board. A solid pop-up ensures you start with proper balance and control, making it easier to navigate the wave.

3. Safety: A swift pop-up helps you get to your feet faster, reducing the chances of going over the falls or colliding with other surfers who maybe in your firing line!

Now, let's dive into the steps to master the pop-up:

1. Positioning and Paddle Technique:

   • Begin by positioning yourself correctly on the board. Lie on your stomach, with your chest centered on the board.

   • Place your hands on the board near your chest, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.

   • Keep your feet together, toes pointed toward the tail of the board.

   • Paddle with long, powerful strokes, using your entire arm to propel yourself forward.

2. The Pop-Up Sequence:

   • As you catch a wave and feel it propelling you forward, it's time to initiate the pop-up.

   • Place your hands near your chest and push up using your arms while simultaneously bringing your knees toward your chest.

   • As your chest starts to rise, move your front foot forward quickly, positioning it toward where your chest was, landing your foot near the middle of the board.

   • Follow this motion by bringing your back foot forward and placing it on the tail of the board. Your feet should be parallel, about shoulder-width apart.

3. Practice and Muscle Memory:

   • Mastering the pop-up takes practice. Spend time practicing the pop-up sequence repeatedly. Repetition is the mother of all skill.

   • Once you're comfortable practice the pop-up in all wave types. If you're a beginner start small within your comfort zone.

   • Over time, muscle memory will kick in, and your pop-up will become second nature.

4. Stay Relaxed and Fluid:

   • Tension can hinder your pop-up. Try to stay relaxed and keep the motion fluid.

   • Don't overthink it. Trust your muscle memory and instincts.

5. Seek Feedback and Coaching:

   • Surfing with friends or seeking the guidance of a surf coach can provide valuable feedback to help you refine your pop-up.

Mastering the pop-up is an essential skill for surfers of all levels. It's the gateway to unlocking the thrilling experience of catching and riding waves with grace and confidence. As with any skill, practice is key. So, grab your board, hit the waves, and commit to perfecting your pop-up. With time and dedication, you'll find yourself effortlessly taking off on waves in all situations. If you would like a more in-depth guide hit us up by replying to this email.