People have been drawn to the ocean since the dawn of humans. For some cultures, it was a frightening place full of mysterious monsters, and because most people couldn't swim, falling in meant death. Beaches were considered wasteland. However, for other cultures it was their home. It was a source of food, and life. It was a place to relax, and have fun. For them, a beach was a ritualistic place.

It took some time for much of the world to begin to enjoy the beauty and peace the beach has to offer. Surf, swim and lifeguard clubs began to spring up all over the world. People began to build small cottages, and spend the warm summer months at the shore. The small cottages began to turn into larger homes and hotels. Railroads were built to give greater access, and people found that just by going to the beach, their lives seemed to be a little better.

The beach became a place were people have gathered, shared experiences, leave problems behind, and be in tune with Mother Nature. Many couples attribute their first meeting to a chance visit to the beach. Many of our first memories as a child are of going to the beach; building sandcastles, frightfully playing in the shore break, and smelling the clean salt air. As we get older, the beach becomes our escape and lets us become that child again. Ask a surfer about the ocean, and each one will say, "For me, it is a spiritual thing. I feel my soul is cleansed and refreshed after I am done." I've surfed with people from 7 years old to 90 years old, and each one feels and says the something.

In the Aztec culture, Ozomatli the monkey was considered the companion spirit ('nahual') and servant of the god Xochipilli (god of music and dance). The monkey was a creature associated with the arts, games and fun. For us, it is a natural guide to tell you what are the best places to go to have the most fun for you. Each beach is unique, and might be great for one person, but terrible for the next. Through our own in-depth research, and user input, we will find the best match for you.