Shawn Moran

SLM 521 (elective #9 Fieldtrips)

April 25, 2005

The World’s Great Oceans

Wax up those surfboards and take a virtual field trip to some of the world’s greatest surfing beaches. You are going to visit sites that are known for both great waves and pristine beaches. Just remember to wear sun block and try to avoid the; mosquitoes, sea urchins, sea lice, jellyfish, sharp coral reef, and the “men in grey suits” (great white sharks). See you at the beach!

Hatteras, North Carolina (The Outerbanks)

Begin your journey within the boarders of the United States. The Outerbanks of North Carolina is probably the east coasts best kept secret when it comes to clean beaches. While you’re hear, visit this link and find out what Dr. Beach thinks about this stretch of beach. The Outerbanks also has a long and rich history. Make sure to visit the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” before leaving North Carolina, and find out why the infamous pirate Blackbeard liked this place so much. Have fun!

http://www.surfline.com/travel/surfmaps/us/north_carolina_outer_banks/index.cfm

Oahu, Hawaii (The North Shore)

Next stop is the “North Shore” of Hawaii on the island of Oahu. This is the surfing Mecca of the universe. Due to its geographical location, this seven mile stretch of beaches from Waimea to Sunset Beach has the strongest surf in the world. Make sure to visit the surf break “Pipeline”, and take note of its dangers and why this break is known as the most technical break in the world. Find out why the waves of the “North Shore” are so powerful during winter months, and make sure to visit the Duke Kahanamoku Museum while you are there. Enjoy the coconuts!

http://www.surfline.com/travel/surfmaps/us/oahu/index.cfm

Burleigh Heads, Australia

Next stop is the east coast of Australia known as “Down Under”. This stretch of coast is famous for it’s variety of surfing beaches. When you go to Australia and look in the sports page, surfing is acknowledged as one of the most popular sports. Make sure to visit the history and seasons of Australia. Do you notice something peculiar about the seasons?

http://www.surfline.com/travel/surfmaps/australia/northernPoints/index.cfm

Teahupoo, Tahiti

The last stop on your trip takes you to Tahiti to one of the worlds most dangerous surfing breaks. What makes this break so dangerous? Read the characteristics of the break and learn what truly makes this wave so dangerous.

http://www.wannasurf.com/spot/Australia_Pacific/Polynesia/Tahiti/Teahupoo/index.html