Most SCARY Surf of my Life (Northern California)

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  • Опубліковано 25 тра 2022
  • We all know that Northern California is known for having shark infested waters, but for some reason this surf session took the cake for the most scary surf of my life. From the beach this wave looked like a roping sand point of perfection. I knew there were a few obstacles to be had while paddling out & maybe some active sea life, but actually following through with the session proved to be the most scary thing ever. I hope everyone is enjoying the road trip, thank you for the stoke! - Ben
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 571

  • @wessmithp5560
    @wessmithp5560 2 роки тому +167

    Everyone wants a private wave until they are sitting alone in the water and remember what it’s like to be alone in the water;)

  • @justineaves1977
    @justineaves1977 2 роки тому +174

    I've been out in that dark sharky water and it is definitely a spooky feeling especially on an overcast day

    • @POVskimboarding
      @POVskimboarding 2 роки тому +23

      AGREED. Surfed solo on an overcast day about 200 yards from a shark attack that happened 2 months ago…. Caught 1 wave and went in

    • @bsurfer3080
      @bsurfer3080 2 роки тому +8

      @@POVskimboarding your a brave man. I would pass

    • @shacktime
      @shacktime 2 роки тому +9

      No way am I surfing waves that bad at a spot that sharky. Pumping barrels? Sure. Slop? GMAFB. Pure Darwin Awards contention right there.

    • @johnbrown1851
      @johnbrown1851 2 роки тому +21

      I think it's more dangerous driving to the beach. I've been surfing Northern CA for years. Never bitten, but I got rear-ended at a stop sign on hwy 1 by a lady who didn't stop.... until she hit me.

    • @sonder0001
      @sonder0001 2 роки тому +1

      @@POVskimboarding Legend

  • @AceBaseKingOfSpace
    @AceBaseKingOfSpace 2 роки тому +120

    I used to surf alone in sharky waters around South Australia. I didn't intend it to be that way but I was living in a van for 12 months back in the 80's and camping in remote areas where nobody would be during the week. There were some eerie sessions with visits from seals, tuna schools, pilot whales and surfing dolphins...never saw whitey, but it certainly did my head in at times.

    • @philda1698
      @philda1698 2 роки тому +7

      Wow, that sounds like an amazing (although potentially horrifying) experience!

    • @terrishepherd3266
      @terrishepherd3266 2 роки тому +3

      Sounds Amazing!

    • @alainvosselman9960
      @alainvosselman9960 9 місяців тому +2

      Still, you went in ! Pretty ballsy of you. We get visits of a seal when surfing here in Belgium. They don't often come here, mostly during summers to rest on the beach.. I am new at surfing and it scared me a little to have the little creature watching us surf.

    • @KG-yc6cl
      @KG-yc6cl 8 місяців тому +9

      Whitey certainly saw you. Theres a guy that posts drone footage of white sharks near surfers and its astounding how prevalent it is and how close the sharks get without being detected

    • @hospagalief
      @hospagalief 3 місяці тому

      ​@@KG-yc6clthose are babies in socal, now everyone on internet thinks great whites are mostly friendly cos of that guy lol😂

  • @Regulus3333
    @Regulus3333 2 роки тому +27

    Northern California/oregon surf baby. Welcome to the real surf world baby! Dark water norcal eariness, nailed it. Once you cross the golden gate and head north youre now in old school hard core surfer land. All hail the ocean, respect to all its creatures.

    • @AikidoApplied
      @AikidoApplied 5 місяців тому +4

      After Santa Barbara the environment/feeling changes and it just ramps up as you head north

    • @nosi9167
      @nosi9167 4 місяці тому +2

      I am convinced that Orcas are homies though.

    • @mariarohmer2374
      @mariarohmer2374 23 дні тому

      @@nosi9167 Absolutely feel that.

    • @williamward7801
      @williamward7801 19 днів тому

      @@AikidoApplied I talked to a lifeguard at Zuma Beach about sharks. His comment to me was, "I don't even think about sharks until I hit the Ventura County line. North of that, I am not going in the water."

  • @ExploringTheWestCoast
    @ExploringTheWestCoast 2 роки тому +49

    Always trust that erie feeling you get when out in Northern California surf! ... 🤙

    • @timwilgibson
      @timwilgibson 2 роки тому +1

      Ben gravvvy wearing the northern lights tee...yeeew

  • @blitztim6416
    @blitztim6416 2 роки тому +49

    Trust your feelings Ben. Use the force. Avoid sharks you must. 🦈

  • @yoyopg123
    @yoyopg123 2 роки тому +47

    You needed TheMalibuArtist with his drone flying over watch for some piece of mind. Definitely a spooky spot.

    • @thanatu76
      @thanatu76 2 роки тому +2

      Water is too dark to see unless the shark breaches the surface. Looks like first session was at the mouth of the river great area for Great White Shark. Great place to get bit.

    • @Brian-ut7wx
      @Brian-ut7wx 2 роки тому

      @@thanatu76 this is one of those “what were they thinking” shark attack stories waiting to happen lol

    • @surfnOB
      @surfnOB 2 роки тому +3

      MalibuArtist ROCKS

    • @genomitchalinni8106
      @genomitchalinni8106 2 роки тому

      You and J.O.B. are more than welcome up here.

  • @lifeofmtc
    @lifeofmtc 2 роки тому +11

    OMG, Sketchy sesh.... glad everyone made it :) - Lov'n the vlog, keep up the good work!

  • @Jonty2
    @Jonty2 2 роки тому +90

    I surfed near the Redwood National Park a while back. I was out alone, not even anyone on the beach. It was glassy, shoulder to head high and throwing barrels off a consistent a frame bowl. I was getting stoked out of my gord, but I could not handle the feeling in my gut. So, I started paddling in after just 45min. There was a rip in a deep trench just before the shore pulling me back out where I saw a seal swimming right on the edge of the beach looking at me with these big scared eyes that said, "dude? do you seriously not see what's going on here?" I was really glad to get my feet back on the beach. The next day, standing on the beach I saw the silhouette of a big white through the back of a wave.

    • @viewpointRG
      @viewpointRG 2 роки тому

      i don't know ocean terms. can you explain the "rip in a deep trench", sounds like a cool story.

    • @ponolovefarms3926
      @ponolovefarms3926 2 роки тому +3

      I went to usal beach a few weeks ago camping during a big swell, beautiful long lines, black sand beach and nobody out. Same spooky feeling, I couldn’t make myself paddle out 🤦🏻‍♂️

    • @jpw5029
      @jpw5029 2 роки тому +2

      @@viewpointRG water moving out to sea in a deep channel on the sea floor

    • @Greenliight
      @Greenliight Рік тому +1

      @@viewpointRGa rip tide basically an underwater river pulling you out to sea

    • @alainvosselman9960
      @alainvosselman9960 9 місяців тому +3

      @@ponolovefarms3926 I just started surfing this summer, aged 49... like the sense of immortallity has already vaporized and i never had any idea there's so much unsettling feelings that go along with the sport. I have balance bc i skated for 10yrs so i take on somewhat higher waves already.. but paddling out gives me a heart attack...lol. I got caught in a massive 8ft swell 23sec period, strong offshore wind... i am still traumatized. And that's just the waves, we don't even have any sharks here (Belgium & France is where i surf).

  • @EllEss331
    @EllEss331 2 роки тому +2

    Absolutely spectacular videography & editing & music selection! A thing of beauty! Just lovin every dang video you put out! Thanks so much for letting us share the ride!

  • @kailuakidd1512
    @kailuakidd1512 2 роки тому +1

    Outstanding!, cheers to you and your dedicated, and devoted crew. thank you

  • @joshuaf1820
    @joshuaf1820 2 роки тому +34

    Always trust the sharky/spooky feeling!

  • @aurora_occidentalis2248
    @aurora_occidentalis2248 2 роки тому +8

    That Goonies vibe. Thanks for the stoke. I could never have paddled out into that seal-infested, Jaws 5 scenario. Invite me, please next time you surf Lake Tahoe.

  • @edjenvey8576
    @edjenvey8576 2 роки тому +19

    I had an minor incident in Australia with a shark, it was the middle of the day, perfect and sunny. Saw the big black fin from ages away cruising into shore with myself between it and the shoreline. Being young and inexperienced, I began panicking, paddling fast and frantic while other surfers stayed cool and quiet. The shark sank underwater heading into the shore towards me. I tried to paddle onto a wave that was full and even though I was positive the shark couldn’t make up that distance decided to tuck my legs up onto the board. Just at that moment a large deep black body went under me within in a split second and disappeared. When I got the shore the adrenaline was like nothing I had experienced. It took a few days before I could get back in the water.

    • @alainvosselman9960
      @alainvosselman9960 9 місяців тому

      That sounds pretty haunting !! I'd never surf where there's sharks. If i have to die of stokeness... so be it.

  • @Joneshing
    @Joneshing 2 роки тому +72

    Lol, Steamer Lane is similar; it's the most heavily seal populated spot I've been at. Seals chill on the mini-gibraltar there just off the point where people jump into the water. Seals constantly play, swim, and pop up around you while you go for waves. And there's hella birds as well, dropping deuce bombs around you.
    The breaks of NorCal have some spooky spots indeed; spookiest place I ever surfed was 10 miles outside of Santa Cruz. Before I entered the water, saw an elephant seal corpse with the face eaten off. Got in the and the waves were terrible and a low hanging fog rolled in, to where I couldn't see 20 ft. in front of me; like surfing in a dream and the ghostly silhouettes of other surfers would materialize in and out of the haze. After an hour, noticed I was alone and saw the huge bulk of an elephant seal pass through an incoming wave in front of me. Took the next wave in, called it a day and went got some tacos.
    Last thing I'll say, from watching other shark attack stories, and listening to people talk about their encounters, is that it's more worrisome when you see Seals stay OUT of the water then if they get in. If you go into the water, and they don't go with you or they stay grouped up around the shore or on a sandbar, you know for sure there is a shark in the water, because they are trying to be where that shark isn't. The craziest attack that happened was up near Mavericks and some dude was doing research with a friend for a documentary. Before he got in the water, he noticed all the seals were grouped on one side of the beach, staying out of the shallows. He and his friend got in the water, the seals didn't and when he he was 100 yards offshore, a great white torpedoed his board from the bottom and launched him into the air. He somehow survived. Either way, it's always risk surfing up here, but just my two cents.
    If you've read this far, thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.

    • @sferguson1130
      @sferguson1130 2 роки тому +8

      That attack, was when they were scouting for the Hollywood flick about Jay, if I’m not mistaken. When you hear so many legends, talk about that place being super unnerving, you know it’s legit scary.

    • @amouredsaint872
      @amouredsaint872 2 роки тому +6

      Man I had a similar day at ocean beach with a beached whale carcass. Waves were crappy too. I remember a seal popped up about 10 ft in front of me and looked at me like I was an idiot. That’s when I called it a day. I prefer the kelpier spots around SC. Don’t know if it works, but makes me feel better at least.

    • @crazyforskiing12345
      @crazyforskiing12345 2 роки тому +1

      I kicked something white in the water about 10miles north of Santa Cruz w my heal... Probably another dead elephant seal

    • @Joneshing
      @Joneshing 2 роки тому +6

      @@amouredsaint872 LOL, bro Pleasure Point and that shipwreck further down is basically juvenile Great White central. They've tracked sharks there and if you've surfed at PP, you've most likely had a GW swimming under you without knowing it. I don't think there's anything you can tell yourself ("kelp" or "there's dolphins") that means GWs aren't around. It's just a part of the world we enter, every time we surf. But, yes I feel you. I only go to spots that are crowded and aren't known for attacks (*cough Salmon Creek *cough Stinson).

    • @cosmiccharlie8006
      @cosmiccharlie8006 2 роки тому +9

      Yeah Santa Cruz has lots of seals and sharks around, but it just doesn't compare to far northern California. There is so many miles of empty coastline and an abundant seal and shark population. Much of the coastline that far north is very steep drop offs, due to the mountains more or less running into the sea. Just prime shark habitat...
      There isn't a huge population of humans up that far north in comparison to somewhere like santa cruz and even less surfers.
      Everyone who surfs regularly this far north in California knows someone thats had a shark encounter or attack, whether directly or friend of a friend situation.
      Theres no doubt in my mind that if you transplanted the surfer population from places like Santa Cruz or other surf communities further south and put them in the miles and miles of coastline up north, there would be more attacks than anywhere else.
      There's just a small but vibrant surf community up there and the majority restrict themselves to a couple of spots.

  • @DFerg-gn8lu
    @DFerg-gn8lu 2 роки тому +1

    We know the RV road-trip life is not easy. Thanks to you and crew for all the great videos

  • @barrycox60
    @barrycox60 2 роки тому +8

    Truly amazing Ben, I've scuba dived that area and it is teeming with sharks awaiting for a seal dinner. Nads of steel :-)

  • @johnsmith-oz5kj
    @johnsmith-oz5kj 7 місяців тому

    This is one of your best videos ever. So great to see empty lineups and beautiful places!

  • @dianewristen
    @dianewristen 2 роки тому +2

    SUCH BEAUTY, THANK YOU FOR THE WORK

  • @kerryabruzzo5297
    @kerryabruzzo5297 2 роки тому +17

    Thanks for the video Ben. It takes a different breed to surf those waters. The Jetty, Patrick’s Point, Camel Rock, Crescent City were our spots while we lived on the Hoopa Indian Reservation. Overcast, grey, misty, cold, and huge were the norm. And yet, some of the most incredible natural beauty you will ever witness.

    • @sylverstryder
      @sylverstryder Рік тому +1

      Dude, don't blow up our spots

    • @kerryabruzzo5297
      @kerryabruzzo5297 Рік тому +1

      @@sylverstryder sorry, it’s been 25 years since I surfed those spots, I just can’t imagine them ever blowing up! Doc Ball was still alive when I was surfing the Jetty. I surfed spots all along the North Coast and saw waves that no one will ever surf…epic spots!

    • @sylverstryder
      @sylverstryder Рік тому

      No problem, it's just with a few million new surfers since covid started every somewhat known spot has been blowing up. Spots I used to hit alone now have a couple few dozen people competing for the same couple peaks when it's good

    • @kerryabruzzo5297
      @kerryabruzzo5297 Рік тому

      @@sylverstryder that’ crazy, I remember being out alone at the Jetty, which was the premier go-to spot at the time. I hated being alone out there and would have loved some company. Hard to believe those spots are blowing up.

    • @sylverstryder
      @sylverstryder Рік тому

      Yeah man, last I was up there I was going and poaching danger beaches nobody else would hit to have some space. I love camel but I don't like crowds + rocks. Now I'm back in the Bay and hating how crowded it's getting, and tons of kooks with no etiquette or the skill to not drop in, run into each other/run you over etc. I don't like having to stich myself and my suits up and have to repair my boards bc of other folk. I'm looking at land by crescent/S Oregon to get away from people.

  • @toddsmith9552
    @toddsmith9552 26 днів тому

    I’m originally from the central coast of California, and there were many wilderness surf spots throughout Big Sur and San Simeon in the 70s and 80s. I have surfed and startled easily a 1000 sea lions, and the males shielded me in the water from getting near other seals as they left the shore. This was about 1985. Many more people now, as well as areas that you are not allowed to surf. The shark feeling is unforgettable, and have surfed many great days alone or a friend. Great memories!

  • @conornorris6815
    @conornorris6815 2 роки тому +11

    even if you didn't see the taxman he saw you, that feeling was probably a warning

  • @jordanash6745
    @jordanash6745 2 роки тому +3

    Welcome to Northern California!! Those seals are crazy but the murky water is the scariest part

  • @JS-mv4bi
    @JS-mv4bi 2 роки тому +1

    That pup at the end was so cute and nice air on the skate JP! Cheers! and I loved the movie. Got it on Amazon. Yow!

  • @jerzs1363
    @jerzs1363 2 роки тому +4

    Camera quality and angles is incredible here, epic video

  • @LarissaMorgan
    @LarissaMorgan 2 роки тому +3

    I sooooo know that erie feeling every time I am out there and that overcast comes over, ughhhhh chills…….and I’m out, trust your gut 😉

  • @haydenharvey125
    @haydenharvey125 2 роки тому +8

    Ben bro my names Hayden Harvey i love your stuff bro truely i am from south Australia and i am a surfer and you really are a hero to me appreciate you.
    “For the dream”

  • @surfingwavesoflight
    @surfingwavesoflight 2 роки тому +28

    I'm from New Jersey coast, but I moved to a town very close to the Oregon border for a job. The friendliest surfers I ever met in my life were there. They gave me a board so they could have another friend to surf with. Great episode, the northern Cali, Oregon coast feels super wild. So sweet to see you guys travel up there.
    PS- Did you stop at Confusion Hill?

    • @RichardSteffens
      @RichardSteffens 2 роки тому +2

      Are you in Crescent City? I spent much of this spring in the area on a project, and have loved the local surf culture!

    • @surfingwavesoflight
      @surfingwavesoflight 2 роки тому +2

      @@RichardSteffens I was in crescent city. Loved that place. Surf culture there made me feel right at home.

  • @rumtum99
    @rumtum99 2 роки тому

    What an epic trip! I’m 100% completely green with envy. Yeeewwwww

  • @coolcat5421
    @coolcat5421 2 роки тому

    love you ben amazing video as always

  • @rsmith7292
    @rsmith7292 2 роки тому +2

    Great Sesh! I've had creepy overcast days south of Santa Cruz -- beach break, just my bro, creepy vibe (esp when you're alone because he just caught a wave) like I hear the Jaws soundtrack thumping... glad it's not just me that sometimes feels a chill. Great Video!

    • @wifgshots.mp3
      @wifgshots.mp3 Місяць тому

      yea that area is definitely creepy af

  • @chrissymadethat707
    @chrissymadethat707 Рік тому +1

    Grew up “learning how to surf” out in Bodega Bay during my childhood. Never been in the ocean here since. That quiet out there is the creepiest lonely ass feeling ever.
    Y’all brave!!! 🕊☝🏽🕊☝🏽🕊

  • @webslingerxxx4271
    @webslingerxxx4271 2 роки тому +7

    More power to you!
    Don't be the slowest pinniped!
    When they start getting out of the water, you probably should too!
    Bodysurfing 1.01!

  • @JaysWave75
    @JaysWave75 2 роки тому +2

    I am a huge fan!!!! All these years, i have been watching these vids..you finally come to my hometown, and it's shithouse flat...you hiked thru massive poison oak on the top of Whaler's island, missed hella waves not even looking at most of the sweet spots,(just a few miles away) and kinda blew it....i guess i should be stoked. there's no waves here...it sucks....LOL

  • @timhaywood1100
    @timhaywood1100 2 роки тому +2

    Yes! Even more NorCal SoOr content! Love it Ben and crew! I watched For the Dream last night and loved it! Bout to watch it again and make sure to give it a 5 star review.

  • @jeffroberts2215
    @jeffroberts2215 11 місяців тому +3

    Makes my feel like I top water lure when I paddle out alone in the morning 😊

  • @robertbassinder
    @robertbassinder 2 роки тому +3

    Glad you said something along those lines. I lived and surfed Santa Cruz, and Morro Bay on trips alone more than a few times. The feeling of already being on the plate is the average vibe, but when you feel all the sudden a REALLY BAD feeling, scratch for solid ground as magnificent a human you could be and not kook it in cause ya prolly gonna get 'et ..

    • @robertbassinder
      @robertbassinder 2 роки тому

      Ano Nuevo 4-6 feet, sunny, 45 + people, mostly groms, and 300 yards away are 2 massive vessels with Orange chum flags out....Shark Research vessels... just lookin at eachother like whatever... lol

  • @lukecarey613
    @lukecarey613 7 місяців тому

    😂Too funny, I’m glad you made it back to the beach.

  • @1Hubble
    @1Hubble 2 роки тому

    You got some 🥜s Sir gravy !!!! Great content as per usual 🤩🤙 gave me the BGz 😂😂

  • @johnparker4366
    @johnparker4366 8 місяців тому +2

    When I watch an adventure video I just hang out for those recycling moments.........so life affirming.

  • @oliflem
    @oliflem 2 роки тому +5

    Welcome to surfing Norcal Lol. This is a classic surf at my spots in Monterey, Manresa,. Seals everywhere coming super close and surfing the waves, dolphins jumping. There's always birds diving at bait and schools of fish.

    • @ajp7244
      @ajp7244 2 роки тому +2

      Right lol this is what its like in northen California. Im up here in Humboldt I surf waters like that everytime i go out nothing new

  • @Sol_Weird
    @Sol_Weird 2 роки тому

    Loved the video, and seeing the Northwest again!

  • @joshuaivanovic
    @joshuaivanovic 2 роки тому +3

    I surfed just south of Half Moon Bay once with a local and just as we started paddling out he says to me "just so you're aware, there ARE great whites around here so keep your eyes open." Thanks for the reassurance champ

  • @johnmorris6643
    @johnmorris6643 2 роки тому

    Welcome back to my homestate the big OR brother! Hope you are having a blast up here!

  • @MikeyLakeman
    @MikeyLakeman 2 роки тому +2

    The seals just be trying to catch some gnarly waves 🏄‍♂️

  • @lelandhanson
    @lelandhanson 2 роки тому +25

    Hi Ben!! Loving the vlogs for years and the road trip. I live in Oregon and am wondering if/when/where you are going to make any stops? I would be awesome for me and brother to meet you! We started surfing about a year ago and find you very inspiring. We also watch your videos with our mom when she dog sits while we head to the coast to surf. The whole Hanson family are big fans!!! FOR THE GRAVY BABY!!!!!!

    • @skate3999
      @skate3999 2 роки тому +3

      Same. Oregon surf strong!! 🔥🔥

  • @scottmcwave9479
    @scottmcwave9479 2 роки тому +9

    A lot of wildlife out there! Ryan Mack is the wildest!

  • @m11cordoza46
    @m11cordoza46 Рік тому +1

    Nice! A little sesh in the great State of Jefferson! Don’t tread on me kook! 🏄‍♀️🙌

  • @somedudesdad3905
    @somedudesdad3905 2 роки тому

    Fun episode. Thanks for sharing

  • @crazyforskiing12345
    @crazyforskiing12345 2 роки тому +1

    Yeah Mack! I surfed the jetty in Gold Beach a couple months ago.

  • @BradT_Herping
    @BradT_Herping 2 роки тому +4

    Oh my god haha. Ya when birds start diving there’s a bait ball, good time to leave. Plus seals...

  • @davidcirillo9439
    @davidcirillo9439 2 роки тому

    Awesomely awesome again!

  • @stevencole7331
    @stevencole7331 2 роки тому +7

    Classic Ben gravy finding waves where nobody else goes and empty lineups

    • @JaysWave75
      @JaysWave75 2 роки тому +2

      None of us locals go there unless its breaking-And peeling perfect. this sketchy shark pit.

  • @fredricabrams7081
    @fredricabrams7081 5 місяців тому

    You must be so stoked. Right now New Jersey is going off double overhead craziest year ever. I bet I'm happy for you

  • @austinbentley4604
    @austinbentley4604 2 роки тому

    I surfed that whole area recently. Mostly solo sessions. It's eerie but less eerie when I learned the mass difference in shark bites between there and one of my home breaks new smyrna

  • @reddiver7293
    @reddiver7293 8 місяців тому +2

    IMHO, those waves weren't worth the risk.
    But fortune favors the brave and brother got his session and back to shore safely.
    Happy ending for this episode.

  • @cosmiccharlie8006
    @cosmiccharlie8006 2 роки тому +38

    This is my neck of the woods, but I'm originally from the north east, grew up surfing similar spots to where you surf when at home and it's a major trip when you paddle out in Far Northern California and Oregon. It's so wild and the feeling is like no other. Not only are the waves, tree, rocks, and cliffs in many areas big, but the sea life is massive too.
    There's no denying the feeling of an attack looming at any moment, although you get use to it eventually, there is still always that feeling and thought in the back of your mind. The coastal fog, mild temperatures and water color doesn't help in making you feel any safer. Although the area is definitely magical in its own right.
    With that said, it's beautiful, uncrowded and pretty much endless potential if you want to explore. From sandbars, to harbor entrances, to empty rock points and shallow reef and slabs, theres a lot of untapped waves in the area.
    Many days of the year the surf over 10-15 feet, although not always the best conditions. Windless mornings are common, but also often comes with dense fog, which doesnt help the eerie feeling.
    Other than a couple popular spots, nearly every break is empty, which is wonderful in this day and age , but no denying its a comfortable feeling have some guys next to you in such a a wild area.
    I wish you were here with more swell in the water and had some locals take you to a good spot or even better do some step offs or tow- ins. You would have been stoked for sure.
    Regardless, I'm stoked to see you in the area enjoying yourself.

  • @nakedmongoose123
    @nakedmongoose123 2 роки тому +2

    I love the scary grey north. No people, just big big fish and lots of sea life. I'm talking close to Oregon 🤙

  • @ExploringTheWestCoast
    @ExploringTheWestCoast 2 роки тому

    Love it brother! 🤙 Yewww!

  • @hyunkim1223
    @hyunkim1223 2 роки тому

    Looks like a very sharky day. Good on you 💪🏽

  • @rawdog7220
    @rawdog7220 2 роки тому +1

    UK surfer here... nothing more scary than a cold grey North CAL surf with the seals, especially for someone from England where the most dangerous thing in the water is tourists :) I've got family in Marin County, every time I visit and surf with them a bit of poo comes out!

  • @Gonesurfin18
    @Gonesurfin18 2 роки тому

    Love the local support with the Northern Lights Surf Shop gear. Bodega local here.

  • @oceancon
    @oceancon 2 роки тому +6

    Same feeling I had when I surfed in the early am for the first time in CA in Santa Cruz. Coming from NY I was totally spooked by the seals swimming under me, the color of the water and oh yeah, the kelp that grabs your board when you duck dive! yikes...

    • @michaelb7864
      @michaelb7864 2 роки тому

      But then you probably had one of the best sessions of your life right? No place on earth like Santa Cruz in my opinion. Scary as hell first time but once catch a few more comfortable and glorious than you could ever imagine

    • @oceancon
      @oceancon 2 роки тому +2

      @@michaelb7864 true that bro. I actually rode a bigger wave than I ever did before and had such an adrenaline rush that I forgot about the kelp and seals!

  • @joshuajohnston5170
    @joshuajohnston5170 2 роки тому

    I like that chill music at the end.

  • @maloneahern5610
    @maloneahern5610 Рік тому +2

    Surfing in nor cal, it can take years to come to peace with the shark factor. But once you get comfortable and confident out there at the more secluded spots, it's truly a cold water paradise and you can find great uncrowded waves all year long

    • @MarkSpera
      @MarkSpera 6 місяців тому

      Yup, was there for 12 years and got over it at some point. Now going back I can't not think about it. You get used to the fear

  • @EPICichiban
    @EPICichiban 2 роки тому

    Sorry it wasn't pumping for ya' Ben. You seem to make the most of it. We all appreciate your secretive nature

  • @tracey4232
    @tracey4232 2 роки тому

    ahhh you were at my homebreak... and with the Northern Light sweatshirt ...dang I've been hoping you'd come out this way for yearssss

  • @mredmister3014
    @mredmister3014 2 роки тому +1

    You are living the dream. Is it your goal to surf everywhere in the world? Different locations each video. Kick ass. Don’t worry about the sharks. I don’t think they like pineapples.

  • @TroyVogel
    @TroyVogel 2 роки тому

    The best .29 seconds of the intro is you and your wife surfing together.

  • @purplefuzzz
    @purplefuzzz 2 роки тому +3

    I grew up in crescent city. We call that spot state line. Right at the mouth of the smith. My dads friend got bit by a great white right we’re you were surfing. My little brother and I rip that spot all the time. On a good day it’s some of best surf for miles. Make sure to check out Newport Oregon on your way up the 101.

    • @bkdub5881
      @bkdub5881 2 роки тому

      If that was the Smith , Ben took the long way out.... coulda drove to the north side of the mouth and saved a lot of paddling ....js

  • @markdinkel9006
    @markdinkel9006 2 роки тому

    Beautiful swells coming in.

  • @hankgoldenshaft
    @hankgoldenshaft 2 роки тому

    Ive had the same vibe surfing by a seal colony in NZ. Dark, grey water, seals galore. I basically felt like part of the food chain.

  • @TheJoebobmel
    @TheJoebobmel 2 роки тому +20

    I know that feeling. Especially when you don't know there are seals nearby and one suddenly pops it's head up....

    • @blazenxlt3020
      @blazenxlt3020 2 роки тому +2

      And you're dressed like a seal...

  • @saltybarber149
    @saltybarber149 2 роки тому +2

    It's all fine and dandy to catch waves in random places, but when you feel "the presence" it ruins the whole vibe. Good on ya dude for always charging!!

  • @maxb561
    @maxb561 2 роки тому +1

    Reminds me of Manresa south of Santa Cruz..i was surfing in the same spot there the day before the poor guy got killed by a shark last year..ever since never surfed there again..that spot has always spooked me..for sure trust your gut

  • @JaysWave75
    @JaysWave75 2 роки тому +2

    I can't believe it! that's my hometown! the mouth of the smith is a shark pit! LOL

  • @col2959
    @col2959 2 роки тому

    Mandurah West Australia had a 5 m white go straight underneath me 10 years ago. Been a struggle ever since to surf stress free. Mainly go fishing now

  • @JohnnygSawyer
    @JohnnygSawyer 2 роки тому +7

    Dude ! You guys have been surfing some of the sharkiest waters all week ! I've peed my pants at least twice this week. #ForTheDream

    • @BenGravyy
      @BenGravyy  2 роки тому +2

      Hahaha

    • @JayCaseGT500
      @JayCaseGT500 2 роки тому +1

      @@BenGravyy You know where the hot spots are. It looked like a good sesh at what looked like 4 mile??? That first spot north of Santa Cruz before Half Moon Bay. I live a few blocks from Steamers Lane, close to where you were skating that pump track by the Santa Cruz Bike shop...where bikes cost more than trucks. Glad you came through. Hope you enjoyed.

  • @johnjenkins893
    @johnjenkins893 2 роки тому +14

    Well, you are surfing a river mouth in the middle of a rookery in breeding season. You should stop by Vegas on the way home since you're clearly a lucky man.

  • @somphothbsiratsamy3748
    @somphothbsiratsamy3748 2 роки тому

    I ain’t ready for any of that 😂

  • @genomitchalinni8106
    @genomitchalinni8106 2 роки тому

    I appreciate the good music, too. 🎶

  • @dontbemad8894
    @dontbemad8894 2 роки тому +7

    Great video. Super sketchy spot lol I’d be more worried about orcas than anything

    • @deanmarr785
      @deanmarr785 2 роки тому +5

      I would be stoked if I saw an Orca in the lineup Great Whites always flee the area when a Orca is around.

    • @420downunder7
      @420downunder7 2 роки тому +5

      Yeah orcas actually won't hurt you unless they have been captured by sea World and tortured in captivity, other then that they are quite friendly

    • @spencerjacobs3565
      @spencerjacobs3565 2 роки тому +1

      @@420downunder7 I saw a video the other day of a group of orcas attacking (and eventually sinking) a small fishing boat in the Mediterranean Sea

    • @420downunder7
      @420downunder7 2 роки тому

      @@spencerjacobs3565 yes ! I know the group you talk about ,
      They are a elite group of trained orcas released by sea World to cause havoc on and tarnish the good name of peaceful orca

  • @bobbycobb2523
    @bobbycobb2523 2 роки тому

    Lol I live there in crescent city and see your sticker on the sign everytime I drive by. Great places to surf/ south beach crescent city California and brookings jetty.

  • @eganc1976
    @eganc1976 2 роки тому +1

    NGL, that shredsesh went down heaaavy...yewwwwww🤙

  • @toddhastings5548
    @toddhastings5548 2 роки тому

    I always try and convince myself what an honor it would be to become part of nature’s food chain as my final act

  • @tamborjim
    @tamborjim 8 місяців тому

    Very enjoyable ...

  • @IBryanValko
    @IBryanValko Місяць тому

    That had to be Sharky AF considering the amount of seals that were around. I woulda been spooked outta my mind! Even north of Santa Cruz is spooky sometimes. Everything gets rugged sooo fast the further north you go!

  • @oliversmith7820
    @oliversmith7820 2 роки тому

    That was great.

  • @AikidoApplied
    @AikidoApplied 5 місяців тому

    Learned to surf in NorCal: Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz and bits between. High creep/scare factor.

  • @doggobarkso8786
    @doggobarkso8786 2 роки тому

    Great vid.

  • @_boondock_9158
    @_boondock_9158 Рік тому

    Northern Lights surf shop represent!!

  • @janblom5729
    @janblom5729 2 роки тому +1

    Your intro keep getting more awesome 👍

  • @arthurlove1002
    @arthurlove1002 2 роки тому +2

    You enter the water and are being watched as part of the food chain! Glad you didn’t become sharkfood Gravy!

  • @Bienjammin
    @Bienjammin 2 роки тому +1

    I want to say I think that is the first place I ever got stand up barreled. Super tiny Nor Cal town with a really nice restaurant that had the best steamer clams ever

  • @jamessantiago9724
    @jamessantiago9724 2 роки тому +28

    Usually when I get that weird feeling there would always be a shark close by wether I'm surfing or freediving, I think it's from the sharks sonar electrical pulses they use to detect prey😬🤷‍♂️
    While surfing a secret spot on Oahu my Spidey senses kicked in while I was paddling back out to the line up I had that "weird" feeling and sure enough looked directly below me and there's a full grown gray reef shark swimming in the same direction matching my speed he looked like he was in hunt mode from the way the pectoral fins looked and if you're wondering how I know, it's because I stuck my head underwater and looked because I feel more comfortable seeing how the shark is reacting so I could know what I need to do to get out of that situation. Luckily for me right at that moment a wave came and I flipped around at the last second and caught it straight in. I told the life guard about the shark and I was kinda shocked at his reply, he told me "what do you want me to do about it?".. I didn't want to tell him how do his job because I respect the Hawaii lifeguards and lifeguards in general for what they do!🙏 But that guy working the tower that day could've atleast get on the bull horn and or cruise out to the line up with the jetskis to give warning to all the people surfing that day🤷‍♂️ the dream continues!✌🏼🤙🏼

    • @markzieg3593
      @markzieg3593 2 роки тому +2

      Sharkie is always there. Only sometimes do you see them. Seals are just scoobie snacks for Mr Sharkie, so he’s not too far off. As Long as the Water is clear and there is good vis, Just know you’re not in their food chain. I’ve had sharks follow me when I’m spearofreediving. They try to steal your catch. But they will scare off if you threaten (move in their direction) them. Like you were saying, it’s good to be able to look into the water and see how they’re behaving. Still freaks me out tho. Im not gonna lie. If they decided to do something, they’d totally own you and there’s nothing to be done. But that’s pretty rare.

    • @HIM146
      @HIM146 2 роки тому +1

      One reef shark never hurt you. Lol 🤙

    • @jamessantiago9724
      @jamessantiago9724 2 роки тому +1

      @@HIM146 I didn't give it the chance to hurt me! 😁 That spot I was surfing had shark attacks on surfers before so i wasn't gonna chance it, I saw how his fins were in hunt/warning/pissed off mode so didn't want to stick around any longer🤙🏼

    • @HIM146
      @HIM146 2 роки тому +1

      @@jamessantiago9724 smart man!

    • @jamessantiago9724
      @jamessantiago9724 2 роки тому +5

      @@markzieg3593 my good friend got attacked from a small tiger shark while we were spearfishing at a spot on Oahu. Just 30 minutes into the dive about 100yds off shore, my friend looked in a cave didn't see anything so heading back to the surface the shark came from behind and grabbed his arm pulled him back down so he was battling the shark and running out of breath and blood and at that point he hit the sharks nose with his speargun a couple times and the shark let him go and then was able to get to the surface and take a breath. Me and 2 of my other friends who were diving made a tourniquet out of one of our wetsuits and swam our friend to shore with the shark still circling us a good ways into shore. We had no fish on our stringer yet so the shark was probably hungry and took a sample bite out of my buddy🤷‍♂️

  • @stevel1733
    @stevel1733 2 роки тому

    Saw this vid and thought, this is the video where Ben gets eaten! Lol

  • @nickwestcot4906
    @nickwestcot4906 2 роки тому +1

    That sand point with all the Seals out definitely looked like Shark bait!!

  • @laineboyd1249
    @laineboyd1249 2 роки тому

    Yeah Ben Dude 👆🏻

  • @emisurfchannel2280
    @emisurfchannel2280 2 роки тому

    Huahua incredibile 🙈 sick scary pov!!

  • @JS-mv4bi
    @JS-mv4bi 2 роки тому +2

    Lots of little "shark Twinkies" harbor seals. At least there weren't sea lions which can harass you. Good on you guys for braving it. It's a part of life in Northern/Central California.