When to start surfing again

[fevahdawg]

Since October 13, I have not been in the water. Earlier this year, I didn’t start again until late May due to the cold of New Jersey. That first session sucked. Hard. However, I recently got my license, which means I can drive on my own without the inconvenience of my dad having to drive me, since I don’t have friends to pick me up. So, if I were to start surfing again, what conditions should I start out on, depending on skill level?

[SnakePlissken]

I don't know how you deal with the cold any time of year up there bro, but more power to ya

[IanCaio]

I've seem some pictures of NJ surf, there are some awesome spots there! You didn't say for how long you surf, what you can do so far. General rule, if you're just starting you should go for mushier waves (most waves I've seem on the internet from NJ are barreling hollow, but there are probably more beginner friendly spots).

Another thing, guys there are warriors, winter looks harsh. I'm not very tolerant to cold, so I imagine I'd suffer a lot there. The pictures from the waves though, they make it seem like it's worth it!

[dtc]

My ideal conditions for restarting after a break are when the biggest set waves are the size I feel comfortable to just a little uncomfortable riding (which, as a first session back, is smaller than would normally be the case). This means I can catch as many waves as I want and focus on getting my timing and body right, rather than worrying about anything else

How often do these ideal conditions happen-hardly ever. Usually the waves are smaller, which is actually fine albeit can get a bit annoying. If I turn up and the waves are too big and there is nowhere protected, usually I paddle out and just sit out the back and maybe try to pick off a few smaller ones until things feel right again. Or just sit there for an hour and paddle in.

I’ve learnt that the first few waves back should never be ‘stretch’ waves; I will just fall off or whatever.

Then again I’m no longer young; being tumble dried a few times when you are only old enough to have just got your licence should be no problems!

[waikikikichan]

So, if I were to start surfing again, what conditions should I start out on, depending on skill level?

I don't know because as you say, it depends on the "skill level". But I don't think any surfer, beginner, intermediate, regular, advance or pro "wants" to go surf when conditions are bad.

Let's say for instance, condition are poor, on-shore, choppy and closing out. If you can't get out, you don't belong out.

Question: will you be surfing alone ?

[billie_morini]

New Jersey Shore: Shuffle your feet walking in the water! Horseshoe crab in sand underfoot will sting! I'll take the jellyfish sting over horseshoe crab sting. And, boy, there are some big, mean Portuguese man o' war jellies that come through riding currents every now and then.

When I lived at the Jersey shore, late 1970's - early 1980's, the ocean was so polluted it would sting your skin. I hear the ocean is better.