Michael met Ismael from Oceanos Chile while out surfing at Punta de Lobos one day. From the shore, it looked like a random tired swimmer hopped onto Michael’s board for a rest (the kids were worried it was a swimming pirate! haha), but in reality Michael was getting insider tips from one of the best surf instructors in the area. When they came out of the water I could tell immediately from Michael’s happy face and Ismael’s warm smile that we had met a friend.
We spent the next day on the beach with Ismael. He explained the way the waves, winds and currents work in Pichilemu, and why Punta de Lobos is one of the best surfing spots in the world. His passion and knowledge for the water captivated us and he had six eager surfers excited to learn (yes, me included!).
After our initial surf lesson, Ismael suggested we should venture further up the coast to another famous surf break at Puertecillo. He met us early the next morning and we packed a picnic, picked up fresh bread at the best ‘panaderia’ in town and then drove up the coast to Puertecillo where the waves are consistent and gentle, perfect for us beginners.
Our day in Puertecillo with Ismael is one we will remember fondly. A day of surfing, eating, and sand castle building, followed by warm chai tea to thaw our frozen bodies, and a pretty drive back up the coast as the sun set over the Pacific. We learned so much from Ismael, not only about surfing, but also about the history, culture and nature of this pretty country.
****Michael cut together this little ‘surfing highlights’ montage from footage of that day. I love it so, so much I could watch it on a loop over and over!!***