Where were you when you saw the first perfect right hander peel down a glassy pool with Kelly Slater ripping it to shreds? For many this signaled that wave pools really might have a chance at rivaling ocean waves. Up until the Surf Ranch, wave pools were generally seen in a very novelty esque way, but Kelly Slater brought a level of legitness that could not be ignored. Oh, and the wave was epic. Since then Surf Ranch has bettered and bettered that initial prototype, creating long rights and lefts for up to 200 meters with both performance turn sections and deep barrels. The waves can be tuned up or down for all levels of surfer, from ankle biters to head high (if you’re short). The bottom is concrete which can be hard on the skin, so take care when you wipe outs.
The pool in Lemoore, California is oriented North/South, so either direction wind will be offshore for either the right or left. That’s all you have to worry about when predicting conditions. Generally it is glassy in the morning and tends to have a little texture in the afternoons. You’ll need at least a 3/2 here, and winters might even require a 4/3 depending on air temperature. Luckily when you get out there are hot tubs waiting for you!
Getting into the Surf Ranch is a bit of the mystery to those out of the know. There are rumors of a telephone number that you can call to get rates/availability, but this is a very exclusive experience that caters to wealthy celebrities and pro surfers. If you have the money to book the pool, check out thier website, it’s a good place to start. Prices are said to start around 50k-70k for a full days rental of the facility and daily rate per person is around 5k-7k. Better make the waves you get count!
The Surf Ranch does not offer too much more than just surfing. There are hot tubs, a fire pit, and an on site chef that will make food to order for your crew creating a fantastic experience all centered around the wave. Check out our full write up of the Ranch here.
