Classic Waves and Woodies

The first weekend of summer has delivered a major south swell with excellent waves, more than 175 sweet-rolling woodies, longtime friends from the islands, and warm, clear weather. Take your pick. It's been win-win in the Cruz, if you know how to negotiate crowds.

Following a dawn patrol session this morning teeming with a good local vibe and lots of familiar faces -- and glassy conditions -- it's difficult to think of much else. The stoke oven is full and firing.

"These waves have a little hook on them," said Corey, who was seen getting head-dips on several rides across the bar.

They certainly showed punch on the sets that sent surfers scratching for safety. Sarah, Mike, Dave, Greg, Clark, Don and a former city mayor were among the throng. I've always found the water a reliable spot for neighborly socializing.

On Saturday my friend Rick from Maui called me and we met on the Municipal Wharf where the woodies were on display. Valued anywhere from $20,000 to $150,000, these mostly wood-paneled station wagons (some were coupes and convertibles) were lined up for the second largest woody exhibition in the country. The biggest gathering of these rolling artifacts of yesteryear is in Encinitas in September.

I learned that Henry Ford owned a forest on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where lumber was cut and milled to make the parts of the classic woody station wagons, 1935 to 1951. Ford woodies were the last ones made featuring real wood panels. Some of these buggies feature wood-paneled and framed interiors that are as cherry as classic wooden yachts.

Rick and I were blown away by some of these choice rides featuring beautiful mahogany panels that look as nice as fine furniture.

The beaches were jumping. The surf was pumping. Did I tell you about that wave I caught...