Living at the beach (or "down the shore," as my Jersey brethren may say) gives you the chance to try certain unique sports: paddle boarding, skim boarding, and surfing.

My go at paddle boarding was one of calm relaxing cruise down the bay resulting in only a couple spills and sore shoulders the following day. Attempts at surfing and skimming were a bit more tumultuous with splashes and runaway boards abound. Nonetheless, the experiences were just as fun-filled.

After much needed surf lessons from JT and Wyatt out of Malibu Surf Shop, and Corey, owner of Alley Oop Skim Camp, we were on our way to sliding and gliding on the waters of the Atlantic.

Protips:

Most surf shops will offer surf lessons as well as take care of board rentals.

Skim boards can also be rented in many shops, including Alley Oop.

The Indian River Inlet, Delaware is prime for skimming, according to several locals.