Ocean Waves

As any surfer will tell you, breaking ocean waves are among the most beautiful things in nature. For thousands of years, sailors at sea have longed for the sight of waves crashing into a shoreline, a sure sign that land is nearby. Waves tend to soothe the mind and body, offering serenity and mental relaxation for millions of vacationers each year.

The vast majority of waves are created when wind blows over the surface of a body of water such as an ocean, lake, river, or pond. The height of these wind-blown waves depends upon the strength of the wind, the distance over which the wind blows over the water (known as fetch), and the how long the wind blows over the water (the duration).

Tropical storms and hurricanes typically create huge waves, and surfers often brave very dangerous waters seeking the thrill of "riding the big one". While most normal waves rarely exceed 20 feet or so, waves created by a hurricane's winds can reach 50 feet or more in height!

If you look at most any advertisement for a seaside resort, you're sure to see people lounging around, soaking up the sun while gentle waves come ashore on a sandy beach. After all, most of us would jump at the chance to leave the cold winds and snow behind for a nice beach vacation...and those waves always look so enticing!

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