Ha’atafu Beach: Day 1 

APPREHENSION

“Waves. They are expressions of the universe, shaped by the powerful forces of the ocean and like the complexities of human emotions constantly changing and unpredictable.” 

Koa Kahuna

Early in the morning I stood in awe, my heart racing with excitement and wonder, as the first rays of a brilliant blue sky morning illuminated the tropical paradise awaking around me and the super-hollow, super-fast A-frame waves peeling flawlessly across the super-shallow reef.

A lush green foliage framed a breathtaking vista of the crystal clear ocean as I focused on the resplendent waves breaking on the smooth surface of the water, each one carving itself into a perfect tube with surgical precision. The glassy waves gleamed under the dazzling blue sky, reflecting the sunlight like shimmering diamonds on the ocean’s surface, their movement fluid and graceful. I was captivated by their beauty, transfixed by the ever-changing patterns and shapes created by the interplay between water and coral. A mesmerising display of nature’s raw power and finesse, a testament to both the strength of the ocean and the skill required to surf these challenging waves.

I sat beneath the shade of a swaying palm tree for a while watching, with a mix of excitement and hesitation, perfect waves peel and the dropping tide reveal more and more of the reef’s sharp edges with each passing moment. The thought of surfing over the razor-sharp terrain filled me with apprehension, but just as I began to psych myself up for an afternoon surf session during mid to high tide, when there would be more water over the sharp coral, a sudden wind shift disrupted the tranquil scene.

The once-glassy waves changed to a chaotic, unruly messy, churning and relentless chop. The smooth surface of the ocean became covered with whitecaps stretching out to the horizon. The once calm and inviting sea now looked rough and treacherous. My plan to surf today was quickly swept away by the powerful onshore wind. First day in Tonga? A day of breathtaking beauty and unexpected turns.

Cesar is an entrepreneur, publisher and professional investor. He has more than 25 years of experience in the publishing industry and is the founder and executive editor for Surfari Press. Cesar writes, photographs, creates art, and loves to surf and travel.