O.C. PLATFORM : Ocean Isn’t Owned

When it comes to the ocean and the beach, I guess you could say most surfers and bodysurfers have the outlook of the American Indian. Simply put, no one has a right to own any part of the beach or the ocean.

I understand the American preoccupation of private property. It’s only natural that a concept that has been drummed into all of us since we were old enough to walk is a bit hard to shake. And I can understand the need to protect what is yours.

But the ocean or a beach? Those private “little spots” that predominate the Laguna Beach shore remind me of South Africa in which borders were used to clearly mark where the races could go, or not go. In South Africa, racism was clearly the intent. But what is the intent of the owners of these private beaches?

It’s time for those fences to come down. Let’s share what should belong to us all. And I promise I won’t step on your flowers when I make my way down to the beach.