Before man conquered his fear of water, he amused himself with dust sports such as pushing boulders off cliffs, wrestling tumbleweeds, and falling in the dust. Take a phobia-free plunge with today’s Groupon: for $35, you get a two-hour paddle-boarding lesson and tour (a $70 value) at Washington Surf Academy, located on Seaview Avenue.
Washington Surf Academy’s chillaxed bro-in-chief, Andrew Drake, and his battalion of instructors and assistants transmit their wave-riding knowledge to students of all skill levels. During two-hour paddle-boarding lessons, pupils mount an aquatic steed to learn the ins and outs of surfing’s less extreme cousin. After arriving at their scenic outdoor classrooms, Drake and his instructors instill students with proper techniques for navigating currents, standing up without toppling, and fashioning swimsuits out of kelp.
Excursions are scheduled to depart to Shilshole Bay at multiple times each week; more times will be added to accommodate demand. Although all the necessary equipment is included, students must bring a change of clothes, bathing suit, and a whale-to-English phrase book.
Though May through October is ideal boarding season, you may redeem this Groupon any time up to its expiration date (so long as the weather is safe and beauteous).
Washington Surf Academy
It's been more than three decades since Andrew Drake rode his first wave, but his passion for surfing stays strong. Washington Surf Academy is the embodiment of his passion and has grown to include instruction not just for surfing but for paddleboards as well. Unlike a gingerbread man's enemies, Mr. Drake's classes don't take a cookie-cutter approach. "Every person is a unique case," he says. The diversity of his clientele is one of the things Mr. Drake finds most rewarding. "Some people will have huge fears, and it is nice to see them get over them. This one time, this lady was freaking out, but I talked her into it, and she loved it so much that she bought a board from us on the first day."
By helping them to float out of their comfort zones, Mr. Drake and his team open people up to the hidden world off Seattle's coast. With snow-capped peaks in the distance, surfers can conquer waves and paddleboarders can float beneath bald eagles flying to their next college history lecture.
Reviews
One of the great things about SUPs is how simple they are. You don’t need a lot of gear—just a board and a paddle—or a lot of technical advice.
Journey Staff Room, 8/4/10
Tips
99% of 94 customers recommend
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“Great opportunities for many on-water activities! The guides have an eye for the wildlife, seals, bald eagles near Shilshole.”
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“Very freindly staffs! Would definitely try them and recommend them to others!”
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“Great experience ! Logan and Jen explained everything well when learning to paddle board and were just great to chat with paddling through the water. Highly recommend!”
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