Things to Know
Be Respectful
Tourmaline Beach Surf Park is a laidback park frequented by a laidback crowd. Most of the surfers are easy going and just there to have fun, while beachgoers are there to socialize and soak up the sun. The main rules are: Don’t litter, don’t be a nuisance and show respect, for the sea life, the beach and others.
Facilities Available
As a sort of “attraction,” Tourmaline has all the standard amenities you might expect from a sunbathing beach. Those include restrooms along the sidewalks, lifeguards, public showers and benches.
Tourmaline Park is a dog-friendly park, during certain times. If you want to bring Fido, plan ahead and check to see which times dogs are allowed. Typically, dogs are welcome between before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m., though those hours change with the seasons.
Look out for the Reef
Though Tourmaline is a laid back beach destination, it is not free of hazards. Tourmaline itself is made up of a sandy bottom, but if you stray too far north, you will enter PB Point, or False Point, the bottom of which is just the opposite.
PB Point is replete with underwater rocks and reef that cannot be seen at high tide. If you can’t turn your board, and if you’re not an experienced surfer, pay extra attention to not let your board stray too far north.
Summer Crowds
If you plan to surf Tourmaline during the peak months, know that it can get overcrowded. Remain vigilant while in the water, as it's not unheard of for a surfer to catch a wayward board to the head.
Hazards to Avoid
Finally, remember that Tourmaline is a natural park, and as such, you will come across wildlife. Some of that wildlife is not so friendly. Stingrays love to burrow in the sandy bottom of Tourmaline, so tread carefully (shuffle your feet to avoid stepping on them).