GTJ contributor, Rachael Vorster shares her passion for cold water immersion in US national parks.

Set against the backdrop of the storied Highway 101 and the resulting displaced earth, Rincon Beach, specifically The Cove, has been a magnet for surfers for many decades. The Queen of the Coast, as she is affectionately called, awakes from her summer slumber, with a peeling right hand point break every winter.

The “hot corner” as it is affectionately known, is a crazy little choke point at the top of the Santa Barbara Bowl. From there you can see the entire city as you sip on a beverage and listen to the opening bands while the sun sets. Pretty sublime.

I was cold. The air was still. Not a sound could be heard in the predawn darkness. I sat on a small ledge, my hands in gloves, tucked beneath my arms. What would first light be like this morning, at 11,000 feet above sea level?

A summary of the state of South African society and an answer to the question: Should I visit?