Posted by Chris on August 08, 2002 at 00:32:54:
In Reply to: Re: Beach entry question..... posted by Eins on August 07, 2002 at 20:57:01:
On sand beach entires when the surf is large I usually find where the rip tide is headed out and enter with my fins on timing the surf to get out in water deep enough to be under the waves before the next set comes.
On dead calm nights at Redondo Canyon I like to enter with my fins in my hand.
Same at my local beach when it is very calm.
I don't have a set entry method.
I change what I am doing to adapt to the conditions.
At beach dive sites I have not been to before I usually prefer to enter and exit the water without scuba gear to get a feel for the exit before I do with gear on.
There really is no one best way that always works for all conditions.
You need to use your head, knowlege of the terrain and conditions, and make your choices.
The LA County RRR program is a good place to start, because you will be able to draw on LA county instructors who really dive, and don't just teach classes.
see http://www.lascuba.com/