23 Aug 2023

5 Thrilling Water Sports for Your Summer Adventure

• Read Time: 4 Minutes

Are you ready to make a splash this summer? If you're seeking an adrenaline rush while cooling off in the water, look no further. We've curated a list of five extreme water sports to try this summer. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or a water-loving daredevil, these activities are bound to quench your thirst for excitement.

1. Surfing

Surfing is one of the most iconic summer water sports. Starting with an early-morning surf is a wonderful way to ease into the day, as is closing out the afternoon on the waves. With so many incredible breaks and surfing conditions around the country, it’s also a very accessible sport. If you’ve never surfed before, there are plenty of companies in many coastal towns that offer lessons so that you can learn the basics. Once you have them down, you’ll be hitting the waves in no time. Keep in mind, there are three main types of breaks, which affect the conditions and waves. These are reef, point, and beach breaks, and each suits different levels of skill and experience.

2. Hydrofoil

Take your surfing to another level with a hydrofoil board. It’s designed with a foil attached to the bottom that, with the right conditions, provides lift out of the water by using the kinetic energy of waves. As such, you feel like you’re flying and can reach much higher speeds. You can get boards that just have the foil or that have an electric motor attached meaning they work in calm conditions such as lakes and bays. The engine provides the energy and movement that creates the lift. Ideally, you want to have experience surfing before trying a hydrofoil, as it can be more challenging to master and comes with more risks. However, it can be a lot more fun too! Hydrofoiling is not limited to surfing; you can get foil boards for windsurfing and wakeboarding as well.

3.Cliff Diving

also known as tombstoning, is a heart-pounding water sport that combines the thrill of heights with the refreshing embrace of deep waters. Unlike traditional diving, cliff diving involves leaping from natural or man-made cliffs into lakes, rivers, or oceans. It's an activity that demands both courage and precision, as divers must calculate the height, the angle of entry, and the water conditions to ensure a safe and exhilarating plunge. The sensation of free-falling through the air before gracefully piercing the water's surface is an adrenaline rush like no other. While it's an exciting sport, it's essential for participants to exercise caution, thoroughly assess their surroundings, and adhere to safety guidelines, especially when diving in unfamiliar locations. Cliff diving is not just a sport; it's a breathtaking adventure that allows you to conquer your fears and experience nature in a truly unique way.

4. Kitesurfing

Harness the power of the wind for the ultimate water sports rush. In this extreme sport, you have a board strapped to your feet, and a large kite strapped to your waist. You then use the kite’s handles to control it as it catches the wind and propels you across the water. With experience, you’ll be able to reach incredible speeds and performs tricks such as jumps and flips. For beginners, it’s suggested that you take lessons. These will generally cover flying the kite on the ground, followed by in the water, then getting up and riding the board. Most schools will have the essential equipment to learn with, so you don’t need to invest a lot of money before you even start. Once you have it down pat, it’s a thrilling sport that is sure to get the adrenaline surging.

5. Yachting

If luxury water activities are more your vibe, then look no further than yachting. There are various yacht styles, including sailing and motor vessels that vary in size from relatively small to superyachts. Beyond befriending a millionaire to get an invite to their superyacht, there’s a couple of ways to get out on the water. This includes booking a day trip or even a multi-night trip to explore different reefs and ports. You’ll be able to relax on deck, enjoy snorkeling off the sides, and explore a variety of anchorage spots. Some companies will even let you help sail the boat, depending on the conditions. Another great option is a sail-yourself tour, where you get a group of friends and skipper the yacht yourself. You do need sailing experience and a captain with a boat license; however, this can be an enjoyable and flexible experience.