according to the graph, there wont be a lot of rideable surf, especially if irene knocks on up north along the coast (too windy or closing out). just scope out the surf and check it. be careful of the currents and rips and watch yourself. i always go out with someone on big hurricane swells so that we keep each other in check
I am a bodyboarder and went out last year for hurricane bill. Overhead to double overhead for the first time. Best day I have ever had bodyboarding. Just study the waves paddle out and have a good time. It was intimidating but awesome. I wouldnt pass the opportunity up. When there are waves you gotta paddle out.
The longer I live the more I am sure that 90 % of the people that call themselves surfers have never been out in double overhead conditions. I know I have like 20 years ago but won't even try it now. Whenever it is that big it's rarely a wave without a bad ending. I know I could drop in and get out onto the wall of a big wave, but as is always the case around here, there will be hell to pay on the inside. Wait till it drops to head high with overhead sets for the real fun.