Winter in Boulder, Colorado, has its charm: the sparkling snow, cozy cafes, and a plethora of outdoor activities. But let’s face it—when the temperatures dip below freezing, the idea of warm sunshine and crashing waves becomes irresistible.

As I contemplated a warm escape, surfing destinations naturally came to mind. Along the way, I stumbled upon an unexpected gem: Mark Twain’s hilarious first encounter with surfing in Hawaii. It’s a perfect blend of humor and warmth to get us through Boulder’s coldest days.

Mark Twain’s Surfing Wipeouts: A Tale for the Ages

In 1866, during his visit to Hawaii (then the Sandwich Islands), Twain tried his hand at surfing. His experience was less than successful. While the locals effortlessly rode the waves, Twain had a rather comical misadventure:

“I tried surf-bathing once, subsequently, but made a failure of it. I got the board placed right, and at the right moment, too; but missed the connection myself—the board struck the shore in three-quarters of a second without any cargo, and I struck the bottom about the same time, with a couple of barrels of water in me. None but the natives ever master the art of surf-bathing thoroughly.”

This quote captures Twain’s sharp wit and self-deprecating humor, making it impossible not to chuckle at his misfortune. His story is a timeless reminder that stepping outside our comfort zones—whether it’s surfing or braving Boulder’s winter streets—can lead to the best laughs and memories.

Hawaiian Warm Weather Escapes from Boulder

Hawaii is a perennial favorite for Coloradans dreaming of sunshine. With direct flights from Denver, the Hawaiian Islands are the perfect antidote to Boulder’s frosty winters. Whether you’re imagining surfing like Twain, lounging on Waikiki Beach, or hiking lush trails in Kauai, Hawaii has everything to warm the soul.

For those staying local, bringing a bit of Hawaii to Boulder is easier than you’d think:

• Indulge in Hawaiian-Inspired Cuisine: Enjoy poke bowls or tropical-inspired meals to bring the flavors of the islands home. Pair it with a fruity drink for that warm, breezy vibe.
• Channel Surfing Culture: Explore local surf shops and pick up a little beach gear, even if the closest water is frozen over.
• Plan for Summer Surfing in Colorado: Believe it or not, river surfing on Boulder Creek or nearby waterways is a growing summer trend. It’s no Hawaii, but it’s uniquely Colorado!

Finding Warmth and Laughter This Winter

Boulderites are no strangers to winter, but dreaming of warm weather can brighten even the coldest days. Whether you’re laughing at Twain’s misadventures or planning your next sunny getaway, it’s all about embracing life’s warmth and humor.

Next time the snow feels endless, channel your inner Twain: laugh at life’s tumbles, dream big, and maybe even step onto a surfboard—just don’t forget to hold on.

AboutBoulder-admin