Arrival at Hull Bay

The sun was just beginning to rise as I made my way to Hull Bay, a hidden gem on the Northside of St. Thomas. The salty breeze carried the promise of adventure, and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore was music to my ears. As a seasoned surfer, I’ve chased waves across Central America, but the allure of the Virgin Islands was irresistible. The idea of a beginner’s surf lesson might seem a bit out of character for me, but I was eager to experience the local surf culture and see what the buzz was all about.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by Will, our instructor for the day. His laid-back demeanor and infectious enthusiasm set the tone for what promised to be an unforgettable morning. The group was a mix of eager first-timers and a few like me, looking to soak in the local vibe. Will’s approach was refreshingly personal, taking the time to chat with each of us, ensuring we felt comfortable and ready to hit the waves.

Learning the Basics

The lesson began with a brief introduction to the essentials of surfing. Even for someone with my experience, it was a great reminder of the fundamentals. Will’s teaching style was engaging, breaking down the techniques of paddling, positioning, and reading the waves into simple, digestible steps. His passion for the ocean was evident, and it was clear he wanted everyone to share in the joy of catching that first wave.

As we practiced on the sand, I couldn’t help but admire the stunning backdrop of Hull Bay. The crystal-clear waters and lush greenery made it a picture-perfect setting for a surf lesson. Will’s encouragement and patience were key, and soon enough, we were ready to take on the waves. The thrill of standing up on the board, even for a brief moment, was exhilarating, and the cheers from fellow surfers added to the camaraderie of the experience.

Riding the Waves

With the basics under our belts, it was time to put our skills to the test. The waves at Hull Bay were gentle yet challenging enough to keep things exciting. I found myself cheering on my fellow surfers, each small victory celebrated with high-fives and laughter. Will was always nearby, offering tips and encouragement, ensuring everyone had their moment of triumph.

As the lesson drew to a close, we were given some free time to practice our newfound skills. I took the opportunity to soak in the surroundings, the sun warming my skin and the ocean’s rhythm lulling me into a state of bliss. The experience was a reminder of why I fell in love with surfing in the first place – the connection with nature, the thrill of the ride, and the shared joy with fellow wave-chasers.

Reflecting on the morning, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the Virgin Islands’ surf scene. Will’s dedication and passion made the lesson truly special, and I left Hull Bay with a renewed appreciation for the simple joys of surfing. If you find yourself in St. Thomas, I highly recommend this surf lesson for a taste of island life and the thrill of catching your first wave.