Santa Monica State Beach

Surfing is directly connected to meditation; there’s a sense of flow and ease and being present. When you’re surrounded by dolphins and pelicans and all these amazing creatures, you can’t help but step out from mundane everyday thinking. And then, if you are lucky enough to get up on a wave, your mind can’t wander. There is only the present moment. I recommend aiming for the beach fronting the Ocean Park neighborhood. It's in the middle of Santa Monica, so it’s easy to get to. It’s family-friendly, there are showers, you can park right next to the beach, and you can surf 365 days of the year. My favorite time is 5:30 or 6 in the morning, when you can watch the sunrise.