Snappy and protective locals are the least of your problems. What appears to be a calm environment can quickly turn into a chaotic hell likely to hold a surfer underwater for two consecutive long waves. Grab a Snickers if the paddle looks easy. This place will pin you to the beach like an incoming river, shattering any dreams of making it to the peak. Surfing is the best when it’s man (or woman) versus ocean; Asilomar delivers with enough juice to break an $800 surfboard or hold the wave of a lifetime. The currents are strong, the water is cold and Great White Sharks make you sing, “I feel like somebody’s watching me.” But the waves are worth the abuse, and there are many days that they are perfect—but so big and scary—that even a ferociously fit Navy Seal would be forgiven (after hyperventilating) for crying, “Mommy!” Don’t forget a wax comb; any advantage will be appreciated