The thought of getting into Bay Area water to catch some waves was super intimidating. I’d heard about the conditions (and the crowd) at Ocean Beach and knew that wasn’t the place for me. I had heard, however, whispers of another spot – just thirty minutes away: Pacifica. It was spoken of almost as a secret haven. Partially because it was a good spot for beginners and partially because it had a TACO BELL CANTINA (with a whole menu of vegetarian options…). I decided that this is where I would attempt my first Northern California surf session.