The Hustle and Flow of the South Bay

7-2-12 Tuesday surf check Torrance Beach 1-3’

I decided to head down the street and check out Torrance. I really lucked out and found a good parking spot that I managed to squeeze my Honda Element into. It was pure chaos in the parking lot and I was sure the beach would be black-balled (No surfing allowed). 

Torrance Parking Lot 7-2-12 by Eric Cedeno

I guess Junior Lifeguards just got out and all the parent came by at the exact same time to pick up their kids. Which meant that since it was so late in the day that soon the lifeguards might remove the back-ball flags and allow surfing again.

Torrance Beach 7-2-12 by Eric Cedeno

My first glance at the water verified my guess about the back-ball... No one out in the water over here. I'd have to make the walk south to get some waves.

Torrance Beach 7-2-12 by Eric Cedeno

There were only a few heads out and I figured that I might as well join the crowd and get a few waves before the tide totally kills it. I suited up and grabbed my 7'10" noserider and jogged down to the second lifeguard tower on the left. It was small and a little rolly, but it sure beats being at work so I paddled out in front of the "swim that way/surf this way" sign. I picked off a few quick noserides while some guy and friend took a few pictures of the action. I kept a close eye on the other lifeguard tower and as soon I I noticed that the back-ball flagged dropped I made my way a little north to the better peak. I had it all to myself for about an hour. It a funny thing surfing by myself on days that seem so crowded everywhere else, on the streets, parking lots and the strand. I guess I can still find a little peace and quiet in the middle of the hustle and flow of the South Bay.