Can Anyone Go to Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch?
If you’re a fan of surfing, you’ve probably heard of Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch. This man-made wave pool located in Lemoore, California has become a popular destination for surf enthusiasts from around the world.
But can anyone go to this exclusive surf spot? Let’s find out!
What is Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch?
Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch is the brainchild of 11-time world surfing champion Kelly Slater. It’s a state-of-the-art wave pool that creates perfect, high-quality waves for surfing. The technology behind the wave pool allows for consistent and controlled waves, making it ideal for training and competition purposes.
The Exclusivity Factor
While Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch is undoubtedly an impressive creation, it is also quite exclusive. Initially, the wave pool was primarily used for professional surfers to train and prepare for competitions. Access was limited to invite-only events and private sessions.
However, in recent years, there have been opportunities for regular surfers to experience this unique wave pool firsthand.
The Founders’ Cup
In May 2018, the first public event at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch took place – The Founders’ Cup. This event gave fans a chance to witness some of the world’s top surfers compete in a team format. Spectators were able to watch the action from designated viewing areas around the wave pool.
Public Sessions
Since then, there have been occasional public sessions at the Surf Ranch where regular surfers can book a slot to ride the waves themselves. These sessions are often limited and come with a hefty price tag.
The Cost
Unfortunately, experiencing Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch doesn’t come cheap. The cost for a public session can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per person. This high price is mainly due to the exclusivity and limited availability of the wave pool.
Booking a Session
If you’re determined to surf at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch, keep an eye out for announcements about public sessions on their official website and social media platforms. When a session becomes available, be prepared to act quickly as spots tend to fill up fast.
Tips for Riding the Wave
- Make sure you have enough surfing experience before attempting to ride the waves at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch.
- Bring your own surfboard or rent one from the facility.
- Be ready for a physically demanding experience as the continuous waves can be challenging even for experienced surfers.
- Listen carefully to the instructions provided by the staff at the Surf Ranch to ensure safety and maximize your enjoyment.
The Future of Access
Kelly Slater has expressed his desire to make surfing more accessible by building similar wave pools in other locations. This could potentially open up more opportunities for surfers of all levels to experience this incredible technology without breaking the bank.
In conclusion, while Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch was initially exclusive to professional surfers, there have been limited opportunities for regular surfers to ride these perfect man-made waves. However, due to its exclusivity and high cost, it remains an elusive dream for many. Keep an eye out for public sessions if you’re eager to ride at this iconic wave pool!
