How I Ended Up Elbow-Deep in an ENV Plan
And why you probably will too, whether you like it or not.

It started with a meeting. You know the kind—the kind where someone throws out the word “sustainability” and suddenly you’re looking at your coffee cup like it personally offended Mother Earth.

I was consulting for a mid-sized business, and someone upstairs (who I’m 98% sure thinks composting means emailing a PDF) decided it was time for us to “go green.” That meant reviewing, implementing, and apparently living and breathing an Environmental Plan—or “env plan” if you’re trying to make it sound cool, which I very much am.

Now, full disclosure: I’ve always cared about the planet. I recycle. I don’t pour motor oil into rivers. But when it came to the logistics of an actual environmental policy? My eyes used to glaze over faster than a donut in February.

Still, I dove in. And let me tell you, the experience was somewhere between a spreadsheet fever dream and a surprisingly heartfelt awakening.

What Is an ENV Plan, Anyway?

Spoiler: it’s not just about switching to paper straws.

An ENV Plan isn’t just one of those binders that gathers dust until the next audit. Done right, it’s a roadmap. It tells your team where you’re bleeding resources, where you’re polluting unnecessarily, and how to tighten the screws.

At its core, a solid plan covers:

• Energy usage (like those AC units running on turbo mode in December)

• Waste management (so long, 40-gallon trash bags of Styrofoam)

• Water consumption

• Carbon footprint

• Compliance with local/national regulations

Now, the first time I skimmed the plan our consultants drafted, I honestly thought I was reading IKEA assembly instructions for a spaceship. It was dense. Full of charts and jargon like “Scope 3 emissions” and “ESG alignment frameworks.” I had to read one paragraph three times before realizing I was still on the same sentence. 😵

But something strange happened around week two…

The Surprising Stuff That Actually Worked
Or, how I stopped being a skeptic and became… less skeptical.

Once we cut through the corporate buzzwords, the changes started to feel real. And—brace yourself—not totally unbearable.

1. The lighting audit
   We replaced half our fluorescent lights with LED panels. Not sexy, I know. But my headaches disappeared and the electricity bill looked like it went on a diet. Bonus.

2. A weirdly fun waste challenge
   We had a “Zero-Waste Friday.” Picture a bunch of adults nervously figuring out what bin to toss their yogurt cups into. It was chaos. It was also hilarious. And it worked—people started thinking before tossing.

3. Remote work and transportation shifts
   Turns out, letting people work from home two days a week cut down our carbon emissions more than any fancy software. Also saved a few people from road rage therapy sessions.

4. Water-saving retrofits
   Low-flow everything. Toilets. Faucets. Even the old breakroom dishwasher got swapped. No one noticed until the water bill came in. That’s the kind of quiet victory I can get behind.

The “Yeah, But…” Moments
Because no plan survives first contact with reality.

Let’s not sugarcoat it—some parts were a mess.

• Data collection? Nightmare fuel. We didn’t even know where some of our emissions were coming from, let alone how to quantify them. Our facilities guy nearly moved to a cabin in the woods.

• Employee buy-in? Mixed bag. Karen in Accounting gave me a 20-minute TED Talk on how recycling is a scam. Meanwhile, the new intern was riding a bamboo bike and using shampoo bars. Yin and yang, baby.

• Cost perception? People assume these plans are expensive. Truth is, most of the changes paid off within months. But that initial sticker shock? It makes CFOs sweat.

Still, it wasn’t about being perfect. It was about shifting the mindset from “How little can we do?” to “What’s actually possible if we stop dragging our feet?”

Real Talk: Is Reviewing an Env Plan Worth It?

Short answer: yes. Slightly longer answer: yes, but brace yourself.

What surprised me most was how empowering the process became. Once the fog of acronyms lifted and we got past the performative nonsense, the team started taking pride in the changes.

People stopped leaving lights on. Someone actually started a rooftop garden. Even Karen—yes, Karen—asked if we could compost in the break room. (We can’t yet. Baby steps.)

The point is, the review process made us face our blind spots—and gave us tools to fix them. There’s something grounding about looking at the waste you produce and saying, “Not today.”

I also found their twitter page to be helpful which you can find here: https://x.com/PlanEnv72801

Final Thoughts (Before You Hit ‘Download’ on That PDF)
Be honest—are you doing it for the planet, or for the press release? Either way…

Here’s the thing: you don’t need to be some granola-crunching guru to care. Reviewing your environmental plan isn’t just a box-ticking exercise—it’s a way to future-proof your business (and maybe your conscience).

And if I, a guy who once thought ESG stood for “Extra Spicy Guacamole,” can figure it out… so can you.

Get curious. Ask dumb questions. Make small changes. Laugh when it gets messy. But most of all—start.

Because the planet doesn’t care if your plan has perfect branding. It cares if you actually follow through.

🌎💪

So… You Wanna Sell Your Business But Keep a Slice of the Pie?

Let me tell you a little secret most people don’t talk about: selling your business doesn’t always mean walking away with a big fat check and heading to Cabo.

Sometimes, you’ve gotta play the long game.

That was me not too long ago. After 14 years of blood, sweat, bad coffee, and even worse client emails, I finally decided to sell my digital marketing agency. But the market wasn’t exactly raining down all-cash offers. Not unless I wanted to sell to some sketchy PE firm that would gut everything I built like a fish.

Instead, I sold the business with owner financing.

Yeah, it sounded complicated to me too at first. But stick with me—I’ll walk you through exactly how it worked, what I wish I knew sooner, and why it might actually be the smartest exit strategy you’ve never considered.

What Is Owner Financing in a Business Sale?

Before we get into the juicy details, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page. I spoke to Cliff Smith, the CEO at Business Broker News blog and this is that he said, “Owner financing is like being the bank for the person buying your business. Instead of them paying you everything upfront, they give you a down payment, and then you receive the rest in regular payments over time.”

Imagine selling your house, but instead of the buyer getting a mortgage, you become their mortgage lender. Only this time, it’s not a house—it’s your business baby.

Why I Went the Owner Financing Route

Let me rewind to the first real offer I got.

This guy, let’s call him “Greg,” came through a referral. Super enthusiastic, had that ex-startup bro energy (you know the type). He loved my business, saw potential, and was almost ready to buy. One tiny hiccup—he couldn’t get traditional financing.

Banks weren’t feeling him. SBA loan fell through. I was about to walk away, but then he hit me with: “Would you consider financing it yourself?”

At first, I thought… absolutely not. I’m not in the business of being a bank.

But after a couple of sleepless nights and a phone call with my accountant (shoutout to Lisa, the real MVP), I realized: this could actually be a win-win.

• I’d still get a decent chunk of cash up front

• I could earn interest on the payments (hello, passive income!)

• And I’d spread the tax hit out over time instead of taking it all in one brutal lump

It started sounding less like a risk and more like… a strategy.

Breaking Down the Business Deal (Without the Boring Legalese)

Here’s what we agreed on:

• Sale price: $480,000

• Down payment: $120,000 (paid at closing)

• Financed amount: $360,000

• Terms: 6% interest over 5 years, paid monthly

• Collateral: The business itself + a personal guarantee from Greg

We brought in a lawyer to write up a promissory note, outlined what would happen if he defaulted, and set up a schedule with auto-pay so I wouldn’t be chasing him down every 30 days like a glorified bill collector.

I won’t lie—signing the paperwork felt like sending your kid off to college. You hope they’ll thrive, but there’s still that tiny pit in your stomach wondering if they’ll burn the place down by Thanksgiving.

But this was all made a little bit easier because we spent time before purchasing to find the best business broker we could by reading this article on FOX4KC.

The First Year: Watching from the Sidelines

The first few months were… weird.

I wasn’t in the trenches anymore, but I still had this emotional investment. I’d randomly check the company Instagram. I even caught myself typing out an email to the new team with “suggestions” before deleting it like a sane person.

But Greg held it down.

Payments came in on time. He made some solid changes. Revenue dipped for a bit, but then bounced back. I realized I could relax a little. Maybe even trust the process.

If you’re thinking of going this route, here’s something I didn’t expect: the emotional rollercoaster. Letting go isn’t just about logistics—it’s about identity. You’re not just transferring ownership; you’re redefining your purpose.

That’s deep. And yeah, maybe I got a little too into journaling during that time. Don’t judge.

What I Wish I Knew Beforehand

Okay, let’s get practical. If you’re considering selling your business with owner financing, here’s what I learned the hard way:

1. Vet the buyer like you’re hiring a CEO
   Owner financing works only if the buyer is capable and trustworthy. Check their background. Talk to references. Ask hard questions.

2. Don’t skip the legal stuff
   Have a legit lawyer draft everything. Promissory note, security agreements, default clauses—the whole nine yards. Trust me, DIY contracts from Google templates will come back to haunt you.

3. Set up automatic payments
   Seriously. Don’t rely on anyone’s “I’ll remember” optimism. Put it on rails.

4. Stay emotionally detached (as much as you can)
   It’s easy to Monday-morning quarterback the buyer’s decisions. But once you sell, you’re not the boss anymore. Unless you like ulcers, let go.

5. Understand the tax implications
   Depending on your structure, you might qualify for the installment sale method, which can be way better than paying everything in year one. CPA guidance is essential here.

Would I Do It Again?

Honestly? Yeah. In a heartbeat.

Selling with owner financing wasn’t just a financial move—it was a chance to be part of a transition that actually felt… human. No corporate vultures, no ridiculous earn-outs, no soul-crushing 2-year “consulting” periods where you’re still running the show under a new logo.

I got paid. I got peace. And I got to see my business grow without me micromanaging the life out of it.

There’s something beautiful about that.

Key Takeaways: Selling with Owner Financing

• 💰 You don’t need an all-cash buyer to exit your business profitably

• 🧠 Vet your buyer like they’re marrying your daughter

• 📜 Legal structure is everything—don’t wing it

• 🧘‍♂️ Let go of control (and your ego)

• 💡 Tax perks can be real if structured right

Final Thought:

Owner financing isn’t for everyone. But if you’re sitting on a great business, and the right buyer comes along without the full cash… don’t automatically shut the door.

Sometimes the best exits aren’t about getting out fast—they’re about handing off the torch in a way that feels right.

Besides, what’s a little passive income between former owners? 😉

Let me know if you’ve ever gone this route—or are thinking about it. Always happy to swap stories and lessons over virtual coffee ☕️.

So, picture this: I’m sitting in my backyard with a half-cold cup of coffee, staring at a legal pad filled with doodles, numbers, and notes that only made sense to me at the time. I’d just told my accountant, “Yeah, I’m thinking about selling the business,” and he looked at me like I’d just declared I was going to live off the grid and raise alpacas.

That’s when I knew—I was really doing this.

Selling a business, especially one you’ve put your blood, sweat, and vacation days into, isn’t a simple Craigslist transaction. It’s more like navigating a jungle with a dull machete and no bug spray. I learned a lot, made a few wrong turns, and hopefully, by the time you finish reading this, you’ll avoid the traps I fell into.

Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid when selling your business, straight from someone who had to learn them the hard way.

1. Waiting Too Long to Prepare

You ever try to clean your whole house because a friend texted, “be there in 10”? Yeah, prepping to sell your business last-minute feels exactly like that—chaotic and slightly sweaty.

I waited until I knew I wanted to sell before getting my books in order, fixing operations, or even documenting my processes. Big mistake. Ideally, you want to start prepping at least 1–2 years before you actually list it. That gives you time to improve margins, clean up your financials, and build value that buyers will actually pay for.

2. Overvaluing Your Business

This one stings. I had a number in my head—let’s call it “The Dream Number.” It was based on emotion, ego, and a vague memory of what my cousin’s buddy got for his car wash chain. I ignored what the market would actually bear.

Don’t do what I did. Work with a valuation expert, like the ones on Business Broker News. A solid, data-backed valuation sets realistic expectations and prevents awkward “That’s adorable, but no thanks” conversations with buyers.

3. Hiding the Messy Stuff

There was a point where I thought I could “tweak” some of the less-attractive parts of the business during due diligence. You know, smooth over that one bad year, gloss over the employee turnover…

Buyers aren’t dumb. They will find everything. And if they feel like you’re hiding things? Trust goes out the window, deal dies on the vine.

Transparency builds credibility. It’s better to say, “Here’s a hiccup and how we’re fixing it,” than to get caught covering it up.

4. Trying to Do Everything Yourself

Look, I get it—your business is your baby. You don’t want anyone else feeding it, let alone selling it.

But unless you’ve sold a dozen businesses before, trust me on this: you need pros. I tried to juggle it all—marketing the sale, negotiating with buyers, running the day-to-day—and almost lost my mind (and a couple deals).

A good business broker, CPA, and attorney are worth their weight in gold. Let them do their thing while you focus on keeping the business healthy.

5. Not Vetting Buyers Properly

Oh man… the time-wasters. The “tire kickers.” The guy who scheduled four meetings and ghosted like he was auditioning for a dating app horror story.

Qualify your buyers early. Ask for proof of funds. Understand their intentions. If someone’s just curious or trying to “learn the ropes” on your dime, politely show them the exit.

6. Failing to Keep the Business Running Smoothly

This one’s easy to overlook. You’re emotionally checked out, you’re dreaming of retirement or launching your next gig—but if your numbers start slipping while you’re trying to sell? Buyers notice.

I had a slow quarter right when I started listing. It hurt the price and gave buyers the upper hand in negotiations. Keep grinding. Pretend you’re not selling and keep your team motivated, even if your head’s halfway on a beach already.

7. Overlooking Tax Implications

Here’s a fun surprise: just because someone hands you a big check doesn’t mean you get to keep all of it. 🤡

I didn’t fully understand how asset sales vs. stock sales would affect my bottom line—or how capital gains taxes would hit me like a truck. A good tax advisor can help you structure the deal to minimize what you owe Uncle Sam. Don’t wait until the ink’s dry to find that out.

8. Letting Emotions Get in the Way

I had to stop myself—more than once—from saying things like, “Well, if you don’t love this company like I do, maybe you’re not the right buyer.” 😅

It’s business. Buyers look at numbers, trends, and upside—not the time you slept in the office during your first product launch. Leave your heart in the background and keep negotiations professional.

9. Neglecting Confidentiality

Selling your business isn’t something you want on the office grapevine.

I let it slip to a vendor, and within a week, I had clients asking, “So… you selling?” That can freak out employees, suppliers, and customers. Use NDAs. Keep it tight. Control the narrative until the deal is solid.

10. Not Thinking About Life After the Sale

This part gets real. After the deal closed, I had a weird emotional crash. I’d spent years waking up with a purpose, and suddenly I was staring at my phone wondering if I should start a hobby or buy a kayak.

What’s next? Whether it’s a new venture, early retirement, or mentoring other entrepreneurs—plan for it. Otherwise, the “What now?” blues hit hard.

Final Thoughts: Learn From My Missteps (So You Don’t Repeat Them)

Selling your business can be one of the most rewarding experiences—financially and personally—but only if you do it right. I didn’t, at first. But the more I slowed down, brought in help, and got honest about the process, the better things turned out.

And hey, if you’re reading this with a cold coffee in your hand and a scribbled-up legal pad like I was, you’re already on the right track.

You got this.

Now go make a clean, smart exit—and maybe, just maybe, treat yourself to that kayak. 🚣‍♂️

P.S. Got a funny or painful business-selling moment of your own? Shoot me a message. Misery (and spreadsheets) loves company.

You know that moment when you think you’ve mastered something… and then the universe gives you a splashy reminder that you’re still a rookie?

Yeah. That was me trying paddleboard yoga for the first time.

Let me back up for a second.

I’ve always been the kind of guy who loves balance—both metaphorically and literally. On one hand, I spend my days deep in financial charts and gold trends, mapping out long-term plays like it’s chess with the market. On the other, I’ve got a salty addiction to ocean air, wind, and that feeling of freedom when I’m out on the water.

So when I heard about SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) yoga, it hit me like, “Why haven’t I done this yet?”

A workout that blends core strength, mindfulness, and ocean vibes? Count me in.

Why Paddleboard Yoga is a Total Vibe

First off, if you’ve never tried yoga on a paddleboard, imagine this:

You’re floating in the middle of a quiet bay. The sun’s just warming up the sky. The only sound? Water lapping gently under your board. Your mind? Clearer than your inbox on a Sunday morning.

It’s peace and presence… with a side of don’t fall in the water.

What’s wild is how much more aware you become when you’re balancing on water. On land, it’s easy to check out during a downward dog. On a paddleboard? Every micro-movement counts. Engage your core, soften your gaze, and if your ego tries to take over—splash—back to humility you go.

My First Attempt: A Wobbly (But Enlightening) Mess

I won’t sugarcoat it—my first session was kind of a circus.

I rolled up with way too much confidence, thinking, “I surf. I paddleboard. I stretch. This’ll be cake.”

😂

Plot twist: within five minutes of attempting Warrior II, I looked less like a graceful yogi and more like a drunk flamingo. The board was wobbling, my foot slipped, and I took a not-so-graceful plunge into the water. Twice. Okay, maybe three times.

But weirdly enough, I was loving it.

There’s something refreshing about doing something new and being absolutely terrible at it. Like, your brain kicks into beginner mode, and suddenly everything’s exciting again.

And when I finally managed to hold a steady pose—even just for a breath or two—it felt like winning the freaking Olympics.

What You Actually Need to Start Paddleboard Yoga

If you’re thinking about trying it yourself (do it, btw), here’s what you’ll need:

1. A Stable Paddleboard

Not all boards are created equal. Look for a wider board (at least 32” wide) with a solid deck pad. Inflatable boards work too, as long as they’re firm and flat. Stability > speed here.

2. An Anchor

Unless you want to drift halfway to Bermuda mid-pose, get yourself a simple anchor. It keeps your board in place so you can focus on flow, not floating away.

3. Comfortable, Quick-Dry Clothing

You will get wet—either from sweat, splashes, or straight-up falling in. Go for lightweight, fitted activewear that won’t drag or sag when wet.

4. Sunscreen + Water

Trust me. Nothing ruins your zen faster than a sunburn and dehydration. Hydrate early and often, and reapply that SPF like it’s your part-time job.

Beginner-Friendly Paddleboard Yoga Poses

Here are a few solid beginner poses that don’t require Cirque du Soleil-level skills:

• Child’s Pose (Balasana) – Start here. It helps ground your energy and get the feel of the board beneath you.

• Tabletop Position – Hands and knees, slow and steady. Great for warming up your wrists and building balance.

• Cat-Cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana) – Feels amazing for your spine and keeps you engaged with the natural motion of the water.

• Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) – Yes, you can do it on a board. Just take it slow. Micro-movements are your friend.

• Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana) – A great one to do when you need a breather (or you just fell in and climbed back on).

Start simple. Flow later.

The Real Benefit? It’s Not Just Physical

Sure, paddleboard yoga will fire up your core and improve your balance. But honestly? The biggest shift happens between the ears.

When you’re floating on water, with nothing to hold onto but your breath and your body awareness, you have to be present. The board doesn’t lie. It reacts to every little moment of tension, every distracted thought, every bit of ego that sneaks in.

It’s like therapy… but saltier.

And yeah, I still fall in sometimes. But now I laugh when it happens. I get back up, wipe the water from my eyes, and try again. Kinda like life, huh?

Final Thoughts: Should You Try Paddleboard Yoga?

Absolutely.

Even if you fall in (which you will), even if you feel silly (you might), even if you don’t nail a single pose (who cares?)—you’re moving, breathing, and connecting with nature in a way most workouts can’t touch.

It’s a full-body, full-mind reset.

And let’s be real—any chance to blend flow state with ocean state? That’s a good investment.

So grab a board, drop an anchor, and just… float.

Namaste, sea-style 🌊

So You Wanna Paddle, Huh?

Alright, so here’s the deal. I didn’t exactly grow up carving ocean swells or gliding across glassy lakes with the grace of a yoga-practicing sea otter. Nope. I was the guy faceplanting off a rental paddleboard my buddy “swore was stable.” Spoiler: It wasn’t. 🫠

But that first humiliating plunge? It got me hooked. There’s just something about paddleboarding—being out there on the water, sun on your back, mind finally shutting up for a second—that makes you feel a little more human. And, honestly, a little more badass.

Thing is, finding the right paddleboard? That’s a whole other adventure. It’s like shopping for your first car—except instead of horsepower, you’re comparing volume and tail shapes like some kind of aquatic engineer.

So if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed right now, trust me—I’ve been there. Let’s cut through the jargon, the marketing fluff, and that one overzealous Reddit thread that almost convinced me to spend $1,300 on a carbon fiber rocket ship. 🙄

Here’s everything I wish I knew before picking out my first real paddleboard.

1. Know Your Mission: Chill Cruiser or Wave Chaser?

Before you even look at a board, ask yourself: What kind of paddler am I trying to be?

Are you imagining serene mornings on the lake, paddle in one hand, coffee in the other? Or are you more of the “let’s see what this baby can do in some chop” type?

Here’s a quick vibe check:

• Flatwater explorer – Think lakes, calm bays, slow rivers. You want stability, comfort, maybe even room for your dog or cooler.

• Fitness paddler / yoga warrior – Wide, stable platforms are your best friend. Extra points if the deck pad feels like a yoga mat.

• Ocean adventurer – For those chasing down waves or touring open water, you’ll want something sleeker with a pointed nose (aka “displacement hull”) to cut through swell.

• Travel junkie – You’re living out of a van, your board better deflate. Go inflatable. More on that in a sec.

If you try to get a “board that does it all,” you’ll end up with one that doesn’t do anything particularly well. Just sayin’.

2. Hard Board vs. Inflatable: The Great Debate

Okay, picture this: You live in a beach town, got space in the garage, and you’re all about performance. You, my friend, are likely a hard board person.

But if you’re in an apartment, like to hike into secluded spots, or just don’t want to strap something to the roof of your Subaru every weekend… inflatables are legit. And way more rugged than you’d think.

Here’s my personal take after owning both:

• Hard boards = better glide, better in surf, more precise. But also heavier, need more care, and a roof rack.

• Inflatables = easy storage, great for travel, surprisingly stable. But you’ll be pumpin’ air before every session (unless you invest in an electric pump, which you should).

I used to be a hard-board snob. Now my iSUP is my go-to for weekend getaways. Call it growth. Or laziness. Either way. 😎

3. Size Matters (But Not How You Think)

Let me just say this upfront: if you’re brand new to paddleboarding, go bigger. Trust me, your ego can handle it. You want a board that’s forgiving. Not one that dumps you in the water every time you sneeze.

Here’s the breakdown in plain English:

• Length:

  • 10’ to 11’6” is that Goldilocks range for most folks.

  • Under 10’ feels playful (especially in surf), but can be twitchy.

  • Over 12’ is great for touring or racing, but not ideal for turning or storage.

• Width:

  • 30” to 34” is the sweet spot.

  • Wider = more stable.

  • Narrower = faster… but also sketchier, especially for beginners.

• Thickness (mainly for inflatables):

  • 5” to 6” is standard. Go 6” if you’re taller, heavier, or hauling gear.

Quick story: I bought a narrow 28” wide board because I thought it “looked cool.” I spent more time swimming than paddling that summer. Lesson learned. 🥴

4. The Fin Setup: Small Details, Big Difference

This one nearly slipped under my radar, but oh boy—fins matter.

• Single fin: Best for straight tracking. Great for flatwater.

• 2+1 (center fin + 2 side bites): A blend of stability and maneuverability.

• Tri-fin / thruster: Ideal for surf-style riding. Quick turns, decent control.

Most inflatables come with a single slide-in fin. Works fine. But if you upgrade, go for a tool-less setup. Ain’t nobody got time for fiddling with screws in the sand.

5. Bonus Bits That Make Life Better

Here’s some gear I didn’t know I needed until I did:

• Deck bungees: Essential if you wanna bring snacks, water, or a dry bag. And you do want snacks. Always.

• Full-length deck pad: More comfort. More grip. Great if you plan on doing yoga. Or just falling in style.

• Carry handle: Seems obvious, but not all boards have them. Trust me, your shoulders will notice.

Also… don’t forget a leash. Not just for surfers. If you fall off in a current, that board can drift faster than your motivation on Monday morning.

6. Try Before You Buy (If You Can)

This is the part no one wants to hear, but I’m saying it anyway: test the board if you can.

Rent it, demo it, borrow it from that one friend who’s always trying to get you into their hobbies. Even five minutes on the water will tell you more than hours of online comparison shopping.

And if you’re buying online (which, hey, we all do), make sure the return policy doesn’t involve selling your soul or mailing the board to Antarctica.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Overthink It, Just Paddle

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: the “perfect” board isn’t the one with the fanciest specs or sleekest design—it’s the one that gets you out there. The one that makes you want to paddle. The one that feels like yours.

Start with something stable. Pick what fits your lifestyle. Don’t blow your whole paycheck chasing some influencer’s setup.

I started on a used inflatable that smelled like sunscreen and regret. And I loved that thing. Because it got me on the water. Gave me peace when I needed it. Let me discover who I am when I’m not staring at a screen all day.

So go find your board. Then paddle out—and just be.

See you out there. 🌊✌️

I’ll tell you something straight—when I first rolled up the coast of North Carolina in my beat-up old Tacoma (with the tailgate that doesn’t close unless you slam it just right), I wasn’t expecting much. I mean, I’d surfed the heavy hitters out west. Places with names that make your knees wobble before you even paddle out.

But what I found on the Outer Banks and beyond? Man… it was something else. North Carolina isn’t just hush puppies and hurricanes—it’s home to some of the most underrated surf spots on the East Coast. And yeah, I’m spilling the beans here. But don’t worry, I won’t give all the secrets away. Just enough to make you pack a board and chase a few good ones.

Why Surf North Carolina? (Besides the Sweet Tea and Sunburns)

First off, let’s clear the wax off the board: this ain’t Hawaii, and it sure ain’t California. The waves here don’t roll in like clockwork. Sometimes you wait. And wait. And maybe even take a nap in the truck bed. But when it’s on—it’s on.

What makes NC special is the mix of chill vibes, wild Atlantic energy, and that sweet southern charm. The beaches are raw, the locals are salty in the best way, and when the wind plays nice and the swell lines up—you’re in for something magic.

1. Kill Devil Hills: Where It All Clicked for Me

My first North Carolina wave happened here, just north of Nags Head. It was late September—hurricane season—and the forecast looked spicy. I pulled up before dawn, coffee in one hand, wax in the other, and the sky was doing that deep navy fade into orange.

I watched the sets roll in and thought, “Okay, this is the real deal.”

The break here is punchy. You’ve got sandbars that shift around like gossip at a family reunion, but when they’re dialed in, you’ll get shoulder-high peaks that peel long enough to throw a turn or two. Bonus: it’s rarely packed, especially if you paddle out early.

2. Wrightsville Beach: The “Clean Cut” Cousin

Wrightsville is like that one friend who’s always got sunscreen, a cooler full of La Croix, and somehow still surfs better than you. It’s clean, consistent, and stylish—just like the breaks here.

The waves are a bit friendlier, so it’s great if you’re newer to the scene or just want to mess around on a longboard. I met a guy here who swore the water feels different—”softer” he said. Not sure if that’s science or poetry, but he wasn’t wrong.

Oh, and there’s a killer burrito spot a few blocks from the beach. Pro tip: go after your session, not before. I learned that one the hard way. 🌯+🌊=🤢

3. Emerald Isle: Small Town, Big Stoke

If you’re chasing solitude with your surf, Emerald Isle hits the sweet spot. It’s sleepy in the best way—think old-school beach town energy where everyone still waves when you drive by.

The break here works best with a southwest wind and a solid east swell. When it’s working, the right-handers run clean and smooth. I paddled out during a glassy morning last fall and ended up sharing the lineup with just one other dude. We nodded, swapped a few waves, and didn’t say much else. Surfing doesn’t always need words, you know?

4. Surf City: Yeah, It’s Literally Called That

You can’t skip a place with a name like Surf City. And no, it’s not just marketing—it actually delivers.

This spot is great for all levels. Beginners can paddle into mellow rollers near the pier, and more experienced surfers can hunt down the sandbars further out. There’s a local surf shop that rents boards and gives lessons, and I’ve gotta give them props—they’re the type of folks who actually care if you’re having a good time.

Bonus points: There’s usually a taco truck parked somewhere nearby. Ask for the fish tacos. Trust me.

5. Frisco Beach: Remote and Ridiculously Good

This one’s a bit of a mission—but worth it.

Way down on Hatteras Island, past the kiteboarders and the tourists posing with lighthouses, you’ll find Frisco. It’s one of those places that still feels wild. There’s not much around, which is part of the charm.

The waves here are heavier. I’m talking powerful beach break barrels that can really thump. I snapped a leash here once, and the paddle back to shore taught me some humility. But man, the waves I did stick? Unforgettable.

Camp nearby if you can. Nothing beats waking up, unzipping your tent, and seeing lines stack up under the sunrise.

Real Talk: What to Know Before You Go

• Hurricane Season Is Prime Time: Late summer into fall brings the juice. Be respectful of the ocean—those swells can be gnarly.

• Tides Matter: Some spots only work mid-tide, others on the drop. Ask locals or check the cams.

• Water Temps Swing: Spring and fall can be cold. Bring a wetsuit. You’ll thank me.

• Respect the Lineup: East Coast surfers are friendly until you snake a wave. Don’t be that guy.

• Watch the Wind: Offshore is gold. Onshore? Might as well grab a book.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Waves 🌊

Surfing North Carolina taught me something I didn’t expect: patience. The kind of patience that makes you sit with the silence, watch the horizon, and appreciate every ripple of movement. You don’t just score waves here—you earn them. And somehow, that makes them taste sweeter.

I’ve surfed a lot of places. Chased the rush, the size, the hype. But there’s something about pulling into a roadside surf lot in NC, wax melting in the sun, seagulls squawking over a salty breeze, and knowing… this is it. No crowd. No cameras. Just you, the board, and the next set rolling in like a quiet promise.

So yeah, if you’re thinking of checking out North Carolina’s coast, stop thinking. Go.

Pack your board, fill the tank, and chase that feeling.

Key Takeaways

• Kill Devil Hills: Punchy and powerful, best during hurricane season

• Wrightsville Beach: Consistent and clean, ideal for longboarders

• Emerald Isle: Laid-back and uncrowded, great for quiet sessions

• Surf City: Friendly for all levels, with easy access and good eats

• Frisco Beach: Remote, raw, and heavy—bring your A-game

Catch you in the lineup. 🤙