Beach Blast Off 2010

Beach Blast Off 2010

Kick off 2010 in seaside style at this special family friendly, St. Augustine Beach event! Enjoy a blast of flavor, icy sculptures, Kids Zone and fireworks when several of St. Augustine’s favorite restaurants serve up chili for tasting and judging at the Fire and Ice Chili Cook-off from 4 to 8 p.m. After things cool off from the chili – the Fireworks begin at 8:30 p.m. This display will delight visitors and help usher in the New Year! On the Main Stage enjoy live entertainment/bands, karaoke and the Family Friendly Dance Party. Admission is free.

MERRY CHRISTMAS From The PIT & Staff

The PIT and Staff Wishes everyone and their families a safe, fun filled holiday season and a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Mick Fanning Clinches 2nd World Title

Mick Fanning of Australia has clinched his 2nd ASP World Title. Saturday afternoon saw solid 6-8 foot surf at Pipeline in Hawaii, and with Joel Parkinson's early elimination in round 3, Mick Fanning won his second world title in three years.

Though Mick also went on to loose his third round heat to good friend Dean Morrison, he had enough of a lead over Parko to secure the title. The event has been on hold for the past two days, after Saturday saw the completion of rounds 3 and 4.

Here is a look at the quarter finals match-ups when competition resumes as early as Tuesday:

QF 1: Dean Morrison (AUS) vs. Damien Hobgood (USA)
QF 2: Flynn Novak (HAW) vs. Kelly Slater (USA)
QF 3: Bede Durbidge (AUS) vs. Taj Burrow (AUS)
QF 4: C.J. Hobgood (USA) vs. Dane Reynolds (USA)

Second Round of Billabong Pipeline Masters Complete

The Surfers reveled in the gently groomed four-to-six foot barrels at Pipeline yesterday, and wrapped up the remaining nine Round 2 heats of the Billabong Pipe Masters. Event Number 10 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Pipe Masters is the final stop of the Vans Triple Crown and the local Hawaiians ruled the day, taking six wins in nine heats.

John John Florence (pictured), 16, event wildcard and of course youngest the competitor in event, was on fire again today, threading both the Backdoor rights and the Pipeline lefts with skills of a surfer twice his age, on his way to the day’s highest heat total, an 18.90 out of a possible 20.

Former 4 Time Pipe Masters Champion Andy Irons returned to action again today, and is looking hungrey for a fifth win. He looks to be back in competition form and ready to go at the World Tour again in 2010.

Here is a look at the Round 3 match -ups:

-Check out the superstars going against eachother in heats 3, 4, 11, and 14!

Heat 1: Adrian Buchan (AUS) vs. Dean Morrison (AUS)

Heat 2: Mick Fanning (AUS) vs. Torrey Meister (HAW)

Heat 3: Damien Hobgood (USA) vs. Andy Irons (HAW)

Heat 4: Bobby Martinez (USA) vs. John John Florence (HAW)

Heat 5: Adriano de Souza (BRA) vs. Flynn Novak (HAW)

Heat 6: Tom Whitaker (AUS) vs. Michael Picon (FRA)

Heat 7: Fredrick Patacchia (HAW) vs. Chris Ward (USA)

Heat 8: Kelly Slater (USA) vs. Hank Gaskell (HAW)

Heat 9: Bede Durbidge (AUS) vs. Liam McNamara (HAW)

Heat 10: Kieren Perrow (AUS) vs. Roy Powers (HAW)

Heat 11: Taj Burrow (AUS) vs. Bruce Irons (HAW)

Heat 12: Jordy Smith (ZAF) vs. Dayyan Neve (AUS)

Heat 13: Taylor Knox (USA) vs. Phillip MacDonald (AUS)

Heat 14: C.J. Hobgood (USA) vs. Shane Dorian (HAW)

Heat 15: Joel Parkinson (AUS) vs. Gavin Gillette (HAW)

Heat 16: Dane Reynolds (USA) vs. Kekoa Bacalso (HAW)

To follow the event live click here: www.triplecrownofsurfing.com

1 Round and Half of Second Done at Billabong Pipeline Masters

The Billabong Pipeline Masters has completed the first round and half of the second round in solid, super clean 6-10 foot surf. Running a double heat format in which there are 2 man-to-man heats in the water at the same time, overlapping by 20 minutes, they were able to finish the entire first round and half of the second round of competition.

Some of the days stand out surfers were Michael Pincon of France who scored a near perfect 19.76 out of 20 in the days final heat, local Hawaiian and youngest competitor John John Florence, who at 16 scored a 17.20 combined two wave score, as well as perennial favorites Andy and Bruce Irons. One of the events oldest competitors and certainly the one riding the biggest board, Liam MacNamera was able to win in both his first and second round heats while using a strategy of only going left.

Stay tuned for more info as the contest progresses.

Greg Long Wins The Eddie Aikau At Waimea Bay yesterday

Greg Long overtook all the favorites yesterday to get a win in the Eddie Aikau Invitational. The Surf was 20-25 foot plus (required for the event to even run). The last time the surf was big enough in the 3 month window was 2004 and Bruce Irons came away with his 1st win. To read more and view photos of the event click: Eddieaikau.

Billabong Pipeline Masters Starts Tomorrow...

Anyone interested in viewing the last event of the ASP 2009 world tour can clicke here: PIPEMASTERS.

For the 2009 World Title race there is only two surfers left in contention: Mick Fanning & Joel Parkinson

Mick Fanning is currently leading with 7140 points and Joel Parkinson is in 2nd place with 6772 points.
Between these two, the following are possibilities:

If Mick Fanning finishes up 33rd to 9th, Parko will need a 3rd or better to win the World Title;
If Mick finished 5th then Joel would need a 2nd or better;
If Mick finishes 3rd, then Parko will need to win the Billabong Pipeline Masters;
If Mick was to finish 2nd he will automatically clinch the ASP World Title for the second time in his career even if Parko wins this last event.

Watch The Triple Crown Live

Looks like Parko and Fanning are in the quarter finals of the O'Neil World Cup at Sunset. Its viewable live by clicking TRIPLECROWN. Just remember that Hawaii is 4 hours behind our time here on the east coast. They are claiming that it's the largest surf in the 27 year history of the Triple Crown that they have ever held the event in

Parko's Favorite Board... and the other 22!

Check out this video of current ASP World #2 Joel Parkinson's favorite board, "Little Red." The thing is amazing!
Click Here for Video

Also here is a second video of Joel going through his "winter quiver"... wow!
Video of Joel's Hawaiian Wordrobe

New Surftech Surfboards Just In!

We just got a great batch of new surfboards from Surftech and there are some amazing deals. WE got a little bit of everything, fishes, shortboards, funshapes, and longboards. They are all priced over $250 below MSRP, so grab yours today before they go!

We also just got a shipment of new funshapes in at amazing prices starting at $300 and no more than $350! If you or someone you know is looking for a great starter surfboard for Christmas we have them! Also remember you can put any surfboard on layaway and make payments if you don't have enough right now!

Offshore This Afternoon!!!

Looks like the surf here in St. Augustine will be cleaning up finally this afternoon with some chest to head high conditions. For a live view of our beach cams and a full forecast and surf report click SURFREPORT . Semi clean conditions should continue over the next couple of day.....

St. Augustine Surf Forecast....

Should be some sizable over head sets rolling through starting late Sunday reaching out through next week. Mostly northeast windy conditions but still should be fun with the right attitude. For more info and to see what the surf is doing right now "Live" Visit SURFFORECAST

Need a New Surfboard? We have Layaway!

With the holiday's right around the corner, many of you are probably planning for what big gift you will be giving (or recieving) this year. If it is a surfboard or skateboard that you are after but don't quite have the cash to pay for it all at once, don't worry, we have you covered! For a surfboard all you have to do is put down $100 on any board in the shop and we will hold it for you as you make payments. Once the surfboard is paid off you can take it home. Simple as that. If you would like to order a custom surfboard all you have to do is put down $200 and pay it off when it comes in. For skateboards we will take a $50 deposit.

It's never too early to start planning. Check back often for sales and deals leading up to the holiday's also!

Your Invited!! Fall Festival at Turning Point

You and your family are invited to come join us at Turning Point Calvary this Saturday Night from 5-8pm located approximately 1 mile west of I95 on state road 16. Fun games for the kids and plenty of goodies to take home.

2008 Wetsuits on Sale Now!

Get geared up for the winter early and save! All of last seasons fullsuits are on sale now! Anything over $200 original price is $50 off, over $100 original price is $25 off, and any wetsuit under $100 is 20% off! With colder water around the corner it is a good time to get prepared and save some money.

New DHD Surfboards and Billabong Tops and Still Filthy!

We are re-stocked on Billabong's latest surf DVD - Still Filthy. There is some amazing footage from all the guys and it has a great soundtrack - you don't want to miss this one! Click here to see a preview trailer: Still Filthy Trailer

Just in time for the cold air temps, we are fully stocked on Billabong wetsuit tops. With the water in St. Augustine still warmer than the air these tops work perfect to keep the wind off of you.

Also just in a shipment of DHD Surfboards from Australia! The boards look sick, we got a few more of the Bobby Monster - we can't keep up with demand for these 5-Fin Bobby Martinez models, so get yours before they are gone! Also keep an eye on the upcomming Rip Curl ASP World Tour Contest in Portugal, as DHD Team rider Mick Fanning goes for his second World Championship, and fellow DHD rider Adriano DeSuoza tries to make a move to the top of the ratings.

2009 ASP World Title Scenarios Heading into the Rip Curl Pro Search Portugal

With the completion of the Billabong Pro Mundaka, which was won by Adriano de Souza (BRA), the 2009 ASP World Title race gotten a whole lot closer heading into the last two eventsof the year: the Rip Curl Pro Search Portugal, followed byBillabong Pipeline Masters.

Here are some of the scenarios of what it would take for World No. 1 Mick Fanning, to clinch his second world title at the upcoming Portugal Event: mathematically, there are still 10 surfers in the running for the 2009 ASP World Title, starting with Tour ratings’ leader Mick Fanning and going all the way to current World #10 Damien Hobgood.

For the Rip Curl Pro Search Portugal these are the scenarios most likely to happen: If Mick Fanning wins the Rip Curl Pro Search Portugal: Joel Parkinson, needs a 9th or better and Adriano de Souza needs a 3rd or better to keep Mick from clinching the 2009 ASP World Title in Portugal. If Mick Fanning finishes Runner-Up in Portugal: Parko would need a 17th or better, Adriano a 5th or better, and Kelly Slater and Bede Durbidge would need a win to keep the race going into the final event at Pipeline. If Mick Fanning finishes 3rd at Portugal: Joel Parkinson needs only a 33rd, Adriano a 9th, Kelly Slater Bede Durbidge (AUS), 26, would need Runner-Up finishs or better, and C.J. Hobgood, and Taj Burrow, will need to win to prevent Fanning from clinching.

The Rip Curl Pro Search will host the world’s best surfers in Peniche, Portugal from 19 – 28, 2009.

CURRENT ASP WORLD TOUR TOP 10 (After Billabong Pro Mundaka):

1 – Mick Fanning (AUS) 6350 points

2 – Joel Parkinson (AUS) 6306 points

3 – Adriano de Souza (BRA) 5773 points

4 – C.J. Hobgood (USA) 5748 points

5 – Bede Durbidge (AUS) 5524 points

6 – Kelly Slater (USA) 5514 points

7 – Taj Burrow (AUS) 5149 points

8 – Bobby Martinez (USA) 4914 points

9 – Taylor Knox (USA) 4816 points

10 – Damien Hobgood (USA) 4794 points

Update to Surf Conditions in St. Augustine

There actually looks to be some fun little waves out there... especially if you have a longboard or a funshape... maybe we will see a little increase for tomorrow???

The Surf in St. Augustine This Weekend

Very small surf today in St. Augustine, it might be rideable at the right spot on the right board at the right tide... maybe. It is a beautiful day to get out and enjoy the beach though and the water is still warm, to go with the record highs air temp.

Apparently we aren't the only place with small surf this weekend, as the ASP World Tour has been on hold in Mundaka Spain at the Billabong Pro for the last three or four days. Luckily for us there is a little hope on the horizon with potential for some surf early in the week... the world tour on the other hand may have to waite a little longer before they see sizes increase into the contestible range.

New Fall Gear Just In!

We just recieved a huge shipment of Billabong fall gear for both guys and girls. Tons of new hoodies, jeans, and long sleeve T's in for the guys, and a bunch of fall dresses and hoodies for the gals. We also got a shipment of guys Matix gear just this week... so stop by and check it out!

Free Challenge of 88 Question for October

On Thursday of last week Casey was the first person to call in looking for a FREE answer to the Challenge of 88 - but I was out of town - so here is his Free answer -

Question 60 - What are the "Nasty 5" that Clint plans to hunt while in Africa - ANSWER - Hyena, Vulture (aka Buzzard), Baboon, Tiger Fish (aka Pirannah), and African Coral Snake (aka Coral Cobra).

Hopefully you all find this helpful on your quest to be the second winner in the Challenge of 88.

Weekend Sale

Come by and check out the sale! All board shorts and walk shorts are 20% off. Bikini's are 20-50% off.
Also just in new Matix gear for the guys along with new Billabong dress's for the ladies.

Looks like we may see a bump in the surf later in the weekend and good weather so come down to the beach and enjoy.

New Shipment From Starr Surfboards

Just got another batch of new Starr Surfboards in yesterday! Stop in and check out some of the new rocket fish designs and swallow tail round nose fish - all standard with the 5-Fin setup so you can ride them as either a quad or a tri-fin. These surfboards are all hand shaped in Florida to ride in Florida!
Also in are Starr Longboards hand shaped by CC Rider! They come with the five fin set up also - but with the traditional longboard center fin.

Surfing St. Augstine... or not...

The waves in St. Augustine look pretty small today... with surf in the 1/2 foot to 1 ft range it might be a good day to do some Stand Up Paddle Boarding or take out a longboard or a fish. We just got in a used SUP that's a "great deal if you thinking about starting the sport but are on a budget. We also have some great used funshape surfboards that would work well in todays smaller surf. Lets hope we get a little bump out there... or we can always go skate...

Massive Skate Shipment Just In!

We just received a huge shipment of new skate gear... and the skate case and skate room are overflowing! We got everything from trucks, wheels, decks, bearings, and completes to pads and helmets. If we don't have the skate gear you are looking for it probably doesn't exist.

Also don't forget about our huge selection of Sector 9 complete longboards featuring all the newest shapes and graphics.

The surf looks kinda small again so what a better way to spend a cloudy tuesday than grabbing some new skateboard gear and beating the streets?

Mick Fanning Wins Again!

Mick Fanning took out the 2009 Quiksilver Pro France yesterday beating fellow Australian Surfer Bede Durbidge in the finals. With just three events remaining on the ASP World Tour schedule for the year Mick has pulled within 200 Points of Joel Parkinson's overall lead.

Locally we have some small but fun looking surf today in St. Augustine... and the water is warm! So if you have nothing better to do might as well grab a longboard and go for it!

New Starr Surfboards

Just got a fresh batch of new Starr Surfboards in this week and they are already going fast! Check out some of the new rocket tail desisngs and swallow tail round nose fish - all standard with the 5-Fin setup so you can ride them as either a quad or a tri-fin. These surfboards are all hand shaped in Florida and coming in at amazing prices that can't be beat for the quality!

Also in are Starr Longboards hand shaped by CC Rider! They come with the five fin set up also - but with the traditional longboard center fin.

If you miss out on your perfect board don't worry more will be here on Monday!

Sand From Oceanside California

Not much info on Oceanside, We surfed here one day and caught some eight foot closeouts but had fun driving up and down the coast. This was a beach break that was not as crowded as other piers near the Los Angeles area. We had the most fun at Cardiff Reef and Le Creole for what its worth. Seems to always be surf somewhere in Cali if your willing to drive.....

Sand From Miami Beach, Florida

Not a whole lot of consistent surf in Miami but it was in the sand collection from years ago when I spent some time in South Florida. If you do catch it good here then its most likely a hurricane that just passed by and the swell somehow wrapped around the Bahama's and hit south Florida. A better chance of getting surf in south Florida on these hurricane swells would be just an hour north of Miami, West Palms reef road. Good luck finding parking, its best to park near the shopping area and take the $10 taxi to the end of the island. Reef road is on the north side of Palm Beach Island. Enjoy surfing crystal clear water and don't let the millions of sea lice stop you from paddling out.

Sand From Puerto Vallarta Mexico

Plenty of fun surf to be found in Mexico. If you want to take your wife or significant other on a surf trip, Puerto Vallarta is a good place all around for whoever to have some fun. Some of the other areas in Mexico are kind of sketchy during these times but Puerto Vallarta is a safe place in general. The wave is usually really fun in the mornings and afternoon and you can stay in plenty of all inclusive NICE resorts right at the breaks. Punta Mita is also an option if its working. If you happened to get surfed out or the surf goes flat then take a taxi or bus into the main part of town for plenty to check out and do. Maybe go to Yelapa to check out a more remote area and see a waterfall or two. You can access these places by boat once hired from Pueto Vallarta.

Sand From New Zealand

Plenty of surf in New Zealand just remember that the seasons are opposite to us here in the United States. I surfed a place called Taylor's Mistake and a few other beach breaks on the northern coastline. The north coast has triple the amount of surf breaks than the southern island. I could have used a 4/3 wetsuit when I went in May but only had a 3/2 and froze the entire time. It was their winter and it drizzled rain every day we were there. Still a beautiful country to see and explore. I would highly recommend renting one of the old school camper vans and you can sleep just about anywhere up and down the coastline. Blow the horn at all the sheep.......and have a good laugh at how easy they get spooked.

Family Surf Experience This Saturday

Come Celebrate 50 Years of Surfing in the City of St. Augustine Beach with the PIT Surf Shop this Saturday, September 12th. The Surf Day Festivities will include food, games, beach music, and of course the family surf experience - featuring surf lessons and a surfing demonstration by some of the are's best surfers.

Lessons start at 9:00 and registration is at the Cultural Council Building next to the Pier. The Surf Demonstration will start at 12:30.

Sand From Macaroni's Island, Mentawais

If you've ever wondered how the other side of the world is and wanted to get on a boat for 10 days with 8 guys and surf the best surf in the world then this is the place for you.

Macaroni's was the first stop of our boat trip to the Islands of the Mentawais in Indonesia and while the wave was still fun we found other breaks that were working better for the conditions that we had. Thunders was the break we surfed 80% of the time and if your interested in seeing more photo's, then go to: PITPHOTO Be prepared to be shocked on the time change, It's exactly the opposite time so bring a sleeping aide to help you adjust. Malaria pills are not a bad idea as well. I would recommend hooking up with the crew we had on the Kaimana Boat and get Shane-O as your captain. We had a fourteen hour crossing overnight through the pass and it was a challenge for all the crew as well as us. Bring a good photographer, Snorkel gear and plenty of your quiver for the different breaks. If I had it to do over again, I would have stayed at least 2 more weeks and spent some time in Bali. Be prepared for 35 hours of travel time.......

September 1st Challenge of 88 Update

Being the first day of the month we had one Free question up for grabs for the second installment of the Challenge of 88. The first person to call in today asked for the answer to question 42.) In Dirty Dancing where does "Baby need to go?" - Back to her playpen. Hope this helps you all out in your quest for a free surfboard - we had many calls in today about the free question so the race should be tightening up more and more. GOOD LUCK.

5-Fin Fish and Rockets In Stock

Looking for a board that can handle everything St. Augustine has to offer? On a budget? Check out our huge selection of 5-Fin Fish and Rockets. We have every size from 5'2 to 7'4 to make sure you are covered. These boards are made 100% in Florida and come at a price that is hard to beat. With 5-Fins you have options to ride the board many different ways to suit your surfing and different conditions.

Sand From Kapalua Bay, Maui Hawaii

This place is what it is: Incredibly Beautiful, has plenty of surfing, fishing and diving as well as everything you would ever need on an island and more. Plenty of nice luxury hotels and restaurants. We actually decided to get married here on the beach in Kapalua Bay or Ironwoods. Maui is most definitely more chill and more Aloha than the big Island. If the Surfs not thumping then go diving for sure and you won't be disappointed. We have plenty of pics

Sand From Jamaica

Jamaica is for Jamming is what I would say. It's a party destination of the cruise lines and the local people are all about good times. There is some surf on the island but between July and November the Hurricanes can be a huge hazard if planning your trip during that time of year. If you want to know more about the surf, then I recommend going to www.wannasurf.com on this spot. Go to chill and relax and you won't be disappointed.

Hurrican Bill Photos By Tommy Addison

Check out the "You Should Have Been Here Yesterday" Section of the photo Gallery to see some great shots taken by local professional Photrapher Tommy Addison. Here is the link to these awesome pictures - Hurricane Bill

Thanks Tommy!

This Weekend Swell Pics Now Posted In The Gallery

Here are some of the photo's from the surf this past weekend. We should have plenty more from Tommy Addison (Addison Fitzgerald) posting throughout this week from Mantanzas to the Pier shots from Saturday late evening. Just keep checking the gallery PITSurfGallery throughout this week for recent post's of the pics Tommy Addison got this past three days.....

The Surf This Weekend ....

Go to our two live beachcams at PITBEACHCAMS if you want to check the double overhead surf we will be having the next few days. The swell is starting to build today and it should be the best swell of the year we have seen with offshore winds. Send any good photo's you get to pitsurfshop@hotmal.com and we will publish on the website in the gallery.

Sand From Pipeline Hawaii

Not my favorite place but it did earn my respect of what goes down here. It's all you have heard and then allot more that you just don't get until your paddling in to a set wave with everyone yelling at each other in the line-up. It's the steepest most vertical wave I've surfed with the sketchiest line up you will ever experience. For lack of sheer laziness and some humor, I actually left the locals a little "log" gift in the water since getting all the way back out to drop a deuce is just not an option once you finally paddle out and are in position for a good set. Plenty of great restaurants just bring all your cash & credit cards because everything is super overpriced. They like to break in to any rental car they can find and stink eye anyone who is not "brodakine"to support their lazy way of life. If you want "Aloha" then I would try a different Island in Hawaii and stay clear of this really territorial overrated surf culture of a place. The wave is world class and there is no denying anything on that end. So have at it if you want your go at trying to be Slater one day but I would just steer clear and redirect to less crowded waters if you wanna have a good surf trip. Go watch the Pipe Masters, take some photo's and then surf somewhere else would be my next trip to "brodakineville"

Sand From Haiti

Another popular cruise destination is Labadee Island in Haiti. Not much surf in Haiti but suposedly there is a place called pistons. The Island is pretty small so it should not be too hard. Pick up some local carvings if you get to labadee, they are the true negotiators. There is plenty to do on the Island from zip lines to snorkel and hikes. The surf near the zip line looked like it could get kinda fun but the reef was super shallow and sucking up hard.

Sand From Grand Cayman Islands

If you have ever been on a cruise in the Caribbean then I'm sure you probably stopped at the Grand Cayman Islands. Super clear waters everywhere to snorkel & dive, plenty of white sand beaches to just sit back and relax along with the second largest skate park in the world at the "Black Pearl". This place looks impressive. If you want to get some surfing in, then you want to try and go late summer or early fall with the hurricanes in full affect around the tropics. Overall, not the most consistent surf destination but plenty of fun on the islands.

Sand From Fiji

No shoes required here if you want to live like the locals......Almost all the Fijians are African Americans living on the individual Islands throughout Fiji and there feet are huge, wide and flat. Maybe from walking around barefoot all their lives.... This place was an amazing place to visit & surf but remember that it is a poor country(3rd world) as well. The Fijians love to free dive and it was the clearest most unique free dives I have ever been on. Big Blue Star Fish all over and sea snakes as well. You can get your fill of big surf on any of the outer reefs like cloud break or there are some inside breaks that I surfed called hideaways. really shallow but super fun head high surf that reeled off. If you want to experience Island life then check into the Wayland islands. You will be living among 30-40 Fijians on a remote island. You can see the moon rise at night since you're on that side of the world and its pretty cool stuff. They will blow the Conch shell when its lunch or dinner time. The food was hit or miss but try the kava....It looks like muddy water from a root but it's rude not to accept and remember......They use to be cannibalistic people not too long ago.

Sand From Dominican Republic

Not a whole lot to say about the Dominican Republic since I was only there for a day when we took a cruise. The place had some super nice beaches and dive spots. I've heard that the surf can get really good as long as the winds are not on it. Located near Puerto Rico it had a similar vibe, just not as developed or as far along. With all the winds in the summer months located right in the middle of the Hurricane paths, the Kite Surfing seems to be the thing to do here. For more info on surfing Dominican Republic go to www.wannasurf.com

Cumberland Island Georgia

Not too far from North Florida, you can take in a full day of surf in at a remote beach/island in Georgia. Cumberland Island is a little more difficult to get to because of the drive and Ferry you will need to take but it's well worth it for isolation or you know the swell is going to hit that area. Not a bad place to take your girl, wife either. Since there is plenty of history and old ruins to check out. There is even wild horses, turkeys etc that are all over the island. If you have enough time, check out Fernandina downtown area, It's St. Augustine but smaller and not as run over by first timers. Pack a lunch & plenty of water.....It's an island.

8-8... 09 We still have Waves!

On the aniversery of a big day in PIT history - we still have plenty of surf in St. Augustine! The surf looks to be about waiste high with some sets around rib high.... St. Augustine beach looks to be filling up with a lot of people out surfing - you should join them!

Surf in St. Augustine

We have a nice little swell today and it looks like we should have some good surf through the weekend. What started out as a cloudy day has turned out to be pretty nice and the waves keep getting better... I wish I was surfing!

If you are not into surfing stop by the Anastasia Island Skate park this Saturday at 12:00 where we will be doing our weekly photo shoot and best trick contest!

With good surf this weekend seems like a good time to get a new board - and we have a ton of surfboard sales going on so stop in and see us!

Sand From Costa Rica, Playa Hermosa

Since I've traveled to Costa 11 times now, I'm going to say without a doubt, this place is my favorite so far. Everyone has heard of Costa Rica by now and I'm sure 95% of it has been good.....because it is. If there ever was a paradise here on earth then it would have to be somewhere in the country of Costa Rica. Great Surf, Great Food & most importantly, GREAT PEOPLE!...They live a lifestyle considered "Pura Vida" or the good life as most would say. Everything from the tropical jungles to all the different coast lines and mountain areas, you can explore as much as you like for as long as you like and never get bored. Try and Surf the following breaks while you are there: Tulene, Escondida, Playa Esterios, Boca Barranca, Playa Negra & Little Hawaii just to name a few. Just about everywhere you go, you are bound to find good surf just keep your attitude in the right direction. I've personally found the central to southern coast on the pacific side allot more fun year round with less crowds and a better vibe but the northern pacific has some incredible reef breaks that you are sure to get some good long barrels if you can hassle the waves away from the Brazilians and locals. If you are in Hermosa/Jaco Area make sure you stop by "Jungle Surf Cafe" for dinner one night. This place has some of the best food in the entire country. Take in a waterfall or two when you get surfed out and you won't be disappointed.

Sand From The Colorado River Inside The Grand Canyon

This is an adventure that everyone should at least try and do before they exit this life and find out what life can be all about here on earth......HIS creation of the Grand Canyon and how mighty this river is can't really be described or explained but I will provide a picture of me and the wife as we ventured down the river looking back up at the canyon. The water was super cold but it really didn't matter since the temperatures reached over 100 degrees throughout the area. It was like a refreshing mud bath and the waves were at least chest high at times......

August 1st - FREE Question

August is here and where did the month of July go? Miss Alicia called in at exactly 9:00 on the dot today and asked for the FREE Question of the month for the CHALLENGE of 88. She asked for number 30 - What clothing company was Andy K sponsored by on the Nicaragua trip? and the answer is PLANET Earth.

Which is a good tie in - if you have not seen the Discovery Channel's Plannet Earth DVD set you should really check it out - some good stuff there.

For more on the CHALLENGE of 88 check out this link - Challenge Of 88 - give it a shot and see if you can win a FREE surfboard.

Sand From Chicama Peru South America

Some of you that travel allot will not believe me when I say this, but please trust that what I have to say about this country is nothing short of 100% true in my experience and traveling for 3 weeks to Peru. This is without question......Of all my travels the one and only place that I WOULD NOT go back to unless it was a missions trip from my church and GOD directly ordered me to go. Sorry if this upsets anyone who was dreaming of going to the land of perfect lefts...blah blah blah. The country was a challenge on all different levels without going into further detail. The people were nice people and very hospitable but they seemed to be very depressed about their situation or place they found themselves in.....It is 3rd world but I've seen happier people in the poorest of places and this was not the case here. The surf was a huge disappointment based on what we had heard & read. While we did however score some sizable waves, we never saw anything with form or hollowness at any of the 20+ breaks I ran up and down the coast checking(driving 25hours). It is the sickest I have ever been abroad after eating an Un-Sol hambergesa and the other 2 individuals I was with had a worse case of the craps than I. I never really thought that I would ever be on vacation and wish I were home but this is the only place that did me in so to speak. I know this is harsh but the rest of my travels, I can assure you......WILL NOT be outlined like I have described here. I just have to let you know the truth of what I experienced in late October 2005. No offense Peruvians....I'm sure Obama is working on giving away more $ in a town near you soon. He seems to like debt & Spending on other countries. Peru is the only country that I would not be upset with getting a little help from the good ole U.S.A. Good Luck and GOD speed to all who are in Peru and to those who have dreams of going. I'll keep my travels in Central America for now.....

Sand From Cape Hatteras North Carolina

Well, I guess I could write all day about this place since I've been there at least 50 times growing up as a kid loving to travel and surf when I lived in Wilmington, N.C. Every year for the past 8 years, myself and the surf team has made our way up so that they can compete for an east coast title in their division that they surf in with the Eastern Surfing Association. The contest is always held at the Lighthouse in Buxton. If you live in Hatteras, you either fish or surf and there is not a whole lot going on more than these two things that I have always loved. Cape Hatteras has the best most consistent surf on the east coast for the simple facts: It is the furthest point east on the coast towards the continental shelf and is a barrier island that can pick up all the swells from any direction while the opposite side of the island produces off shore winds more than likely. It's kind of a lonely place with some very strange locals that like their space. Make friends or at least try to. Once the locals are mad, they stay mad. Try Frisco Pier, the lighthouse & S-turns for some of the best surf. Bring your four wheel drive if you want to fish or surf the point. I recommend the ferry when traveling there just because it's a more relaxed ride if well planned out. You can your travel time down by an hour if you decide to drive around (a very boring drive).....have fun in the PIT's on the cape, I always do. the best time is the fall or some hurricane swell in the summer. Stay away in the winter unless you like cold lonely places.

Sand From Cape Cod Massachusetts

I said 31 different countries of sand but after looking at the sand collection a little closer, I had 9 bottles of sand that were from the USA...some Hawaii, CA, Grand Canyon and yes this one featured today: Cape Cod MA. Not much to say about Cape Cod except that it was ok to visit in the summer but I'm sure it would be somewhat miserable in the winter months. The beaches were really clean and well kept.....maybe from the lack of traffic year round but I found the entire coast and Northeastern part of the USA very unexplored and well kept. The people who live in this area have been there pretty much all their lives and there is something to say for that hometown feel you get when visiting or dinning out at the local restaurants etc. Cape cod was a very nice beach and we have all seen the pictures in any ESM magazine of how good the surf gets there.......the guys are just wearing 5/4 mil wetsuits with booties and gloves. Something tells me, it's just not the same surf experience but an experience to say the least. They can have those waves, I'll stay where its warm and firing. That's all I gotz to say about that (Forest Gump would say....)

Sand From Barbados

Never really got to surf Barbados but the diving is incredible as well as the beaches and people. The white soft sand on the best of beach landscapes is why you hear the island Barbados mentioned in all the Caribbean music and songs no doubt. Bridgetown is where most cruise ships dock. All the main surf breaks in Barbados are located on the opposite side of the island. Soup Bowls is the most famous and well known surf break it seems but The surf is infrequent and unpredictable. On the West Coast, you'll have surf from December to March (needs a North Swell though). If you like to sail then most definately stop your boat in the Marina on Barbados Island and have lunch......You might see somebody famous but you will for sure see the very extremely wealthy from all over the world hiding out wondering why you rolled in on their little secret place.

Australia, Bondi Beach

As I said last week, we will start our blog about where to surf or rome around the world and what it takes to make this happen. We will also discuss each place and some of the things it has to offer. As well as people I have met that you should try and find as well as places to stay etc.....I have 31 different countries in my sand collection that I have acquired abroad in my travels. Each day in this blog, a picture of each one will be displayed as we go through our informative but very short narrative of each country and my experience traveling there.

Starting with Australia: The land of beer drinking English speaking nice people that has incredible surf everywhere you go. I would highly recommend eating a "Aussie Kabob" or two while in your travels here. I really enjoyed the bus pass for the entire month, it was the easiest, safest way to travel the entire east coast of Australia from Sydney to Cairns. You most definitely want to check out the Great Barrier Reef and the Wit Sunday Islands off the northern coast. The surf was incredible in New Castle beach as well as Bondi, Coffs Harbour & Surfers Paradise.

SKATE PHOTO JAM Session and free deck giveaway today!!

FREE TO ANYONE WHO SKATES!!

Come out today for the 2 hour photo shoot at the NEW skate park on Anastasia Island near the lighthouse. We will be having a 30 minute ALL-OUT jam session with a free deck giveaway so if YOU need a new deck and got the skill come out and play...

At the least......everyone will have their photo taken with a professional grade camera.

You Should Have Been There Yesterday.....

To se more on the surf yesterday here in St. Augustine Click: YESTERDAYSSURF
Who knows, YOU might even have a shot or two in the album of yourself if you where surfing anywhere near the Pier, A Street or 10th Street. This Little Guy caught a few memories.....

Surf is Still Good!

The waves have been pretty fun that last few days and it looks like we will see that continue through the weekend here on St. Agustine Beach. Check the surf cams on the surf report section of the website to see what is doing live. Pretty rare in Florida to see this consistent of surf in the middle of summer. Good surf means its a good time to get a new surfboard so you can take it out right away. Stop in the PIT and check out all of our new JS Surfboards and DHD Surfboards as well as a ton of used boards with great deals!

Surf Camp for next week is filling up quickly so make sure you get signed up! And don't forget about the Challenge of 88 - try your knowledge and see if you can win a FREE Surfboard!

Surfing St. Augustine

Looks like we have a good week of Surf ahead of in St. Augustine. We have a great group of Surf Campers this week and they are out there charging already today. We should be having some consistent surf all the way through the weekend, to go along with the excellent weather. Hopefully you have some time to get to the beach!

Speaking of this weekend, we will be having a best trick skate contest and photo shoot at the Anastasia Island Skate Park across the street from the Alligator Farm, this Saturday. Come check it out or enter for a chance to win a FREE PIT Surf Shop Skate Deck.

Also if you are stuck inside and don't get a chance to surf, you can always surf around PITsurfshop.com and try your luck at the Second challenge of 88! Remember that all the answers can be found with a little surfing around the website.

The Surf Around The World....will be the next topic. Have you been there?

Next week we will take an in depth look at all the available countries that have incredible surf and what it takes to make it happen. Almost all of the info that will be shared in this blog will be from personal experience and I will be making recommendations on where to go, who to meet & what to do when traveling abroad. I've been searching and walking this globe since I was a very young man. My parents loved to travel and I decided a long time ago to make it a goal of mine to go everywhere I possibly could before moving on to that special place my father has for me in heaven. If you would like to get a jump on things, please visit our "Travel Album" in the photo gallery by clicking: Travel4Surf

Go Surf!

The surf should be fun and there's some good size over the next week.... Check the forecast at:
PITSurfReport

A Day at the Beach in St. Augustine, Florida

It's Middle of July we have surf and everyone's at the beach....including this little guy "Ezra". To see more of Saint Augustine and maybe yourself on a few waves go to: TheGallery

Mr. Adriano De Souza....(Stinger of others no doubt)

We picked Adriano for the Pacific Nettle Jellyfish just for the sole reason of how many fall victim to his sting in a heat during competition. Especially this year...but it's almost like they don't even see this guy coming until it's over. If you've ever been stung by a jellyfish while just trying to enjoy a day at the beach or surfing then you know how it all goes downhill quickly. Some facts about Adriano De Souza: Currently ranked 3rd in the world and has two second place finishes in this year alone. This guy will surprise you time and time again!

The Pacific Sea Nettle Jelly

The Pacific Sea Nettle Jelly has lacey oral arms in the center that are used for feeding and can extend out ten feet in length. The oral arms are surrounded by 24 tentacles equipped with thousands of microscopic projectile barbs that sting and paralyze prey. They feed off of small fish, plankton and other Jellies.

As for the surf in Saint Augustine...It's really small but on the right tide with a set wave, it could be ridden with the right attitude. For a live image of the beach and surf in Saint Augustine Click: Beachcams&Report

A Good Read: Romans 8: 38-39

Kai Otton AKA: Ottz or Otto

JOEL PARKINSON JUST WON HIS 3rd PRO EVENT THIS YEAR at Jeffrey's Bay in South Africa.....Yea PARKO!!

Kai Otton: Not too many people know who this guy is but he is in his 3rd year on the world tour and seems to fit the profile of the firefly with his aerial assault and outgoing personality. Otton ended 8X ASP World Champion Kelly Slater's hopes for his title No. 9 when he turned it up a notch and beat Kelly at the Santa Catarina Pro in Brazil that year. This guy likes the shore break and is considered a threat in any heat on the tour. Speaking of the Asp World Tour: The Jeffrey's Bay Billabong event is live and on right now..... at: JeffreysBayP

A good Read: Proverbs 28: vs. 1