Laguna Beach Coast Paddle?

[JayInSoCal]

Hi, I am new to this forum and to SUP (been riding daily in Dana Point Harbor for a few weeks and I am addicted).  I have yet to go out on open ocean and I am a little hestitant to go solo for the first time, so I  thought I'd see if anyone is interested in going out on the Laguna Coast this weekend.  Both days are supposed to be beautiful (Sat morn might have some clouds), and either day works for me.   Also if anyone has suggestion on where to launch in Laguna that would be great, it looks like Oak Street is pretty popular. 

[hbsteve]

I paddle out to the ocean from Coast Guard Dock area in Newport, weekdays.  Also, launch from Newport pier, just to paddle.  I'm interested.  I don't really use email listed here.  So, reply here 1st.

[JayInSoCal]

Excellent!  I have a pretty open schedule, what day would work for you?

[hbsteve]

JISC,
I have never launched in Laguna and you didn't provide any information on your experience with other water sports.  So, I drove down to take a look. 
SUPCO is on the corner of Oak and PCH.  Their instructors have the Master Certification from WPA (world paddle association).  They launch from there all the time.  They can instruct you with technique, getting in & out thru the surf, etc..
I can launch from there.  But, I don't feel comfortable being responsible for someone with limited timed on the water, launching directly into the ocean.  Even tho Laguna is basically calm, it is still the ocean.
Launching from the Coast Guard Station beach, aka Fat Mom Beach, is different.  Usually, it starts calm.  Sometimes, it is mostly calm all the way out.  Other times, the wind, tide & swell are all doing different things.  Then throw in some boat wakes.  it is a fun playground. 
If you want to come join me there some morning, let me know.  That way I can get a feel for your comfort level and ability.
I'm going tomorrow or Friday A.M.
Have fun.

[JayInSoCal]

I understand and I don't have any time in open ocean (except for the 3-4 times I've paddled out of Dana Point Harbor, but conditions were way to hairy to stay out).  I did choose Oak Street, because SUPCO was there and it is where they have the renters/beginners go out, so I thought it might be an easier place to launch from.  Unfortuantely, I work during the week and I won't be able to make it up there, but I appreciate the offer.  Maybe I can try Fat Mom beach this weekend.  Can you park right at the Coast Guard station?

[hbsteve]

There is a small lot.  If it is full, unload your gear by the gate to the beach, then park your vehicle on the street.
I could meet you there Sat. At 9:30.
Reminder:  USCG thinks we are vessels, so require pfd's..  Your choose.  A leash is recommended by a majority of zoners,regardless of the laws.

[JayInSoCal]

Sorry I haven't responded yet, work has kinda exploded on me the last couple of days.  Again I appreciate the offer, unfortunately I think I'm going to have to take a raincheck.  I have and issue that's going to require me to be in work on Saturday and possibly Sunday(I hope npt).  I was hoping to get out of it, but it doesn't look like it's gonna happen.  To say I am unhappy about how my weekend is shaping up is an understatement.  Hopefully we can find another time to paddle.     

[hbsteve]

OK.  Get out soon.