Learning to surf is fun and exciting but before heading out to surf, there are a few surfing etiquettes or rules that every surfer must know. Keep in mind that these rules are more like guidelines but breaking them might get you in trouble amongst other surfers. Especially at localized spots or if you do it a lot. The ocean is a dangerous place and having such guidelines helps keep everyone safe and helps you be a better surfer. If you are looking for more ways to improve your surfing skills, you should consider using a surfskate board, use this buyer’s guide on OMBE to find the right board for you.
First experiences are always intimidating, so to make things easier, follow these surfing etiquettes to keep yourself out of trouble and have fun on the water.
#1 Right of Way
When you are heading to the waves, remember that the person closest to the highest point of waves goes first. In order words, he has the right of way over the left paddler. So if you are paddling on the right and closest to the peak of the way, you have the right of way. Failing to do so, you may paddle into the surfer next to you. If you happen to encounter a split wave point, both surfers can catch the wave in different directions.
#2 Don’t Drop-In
The most important for every surfer is to always follow Rule #1. Cutting in front of other surfing is possibly the worst thing you can do when surfing as it can lead to injuries or worse. No matter how good the wave might be, it is all about respecting your fellow surfers. Always wait for your turn as you will ruin the wave for other surfers who enjoy surfing just like you.
#3 Don’t Snake
Snaking is another respectful behavior that is not tolerated by surfers, especially locals. There are plenty of surfers out there who want to catch waves and being patient is an important principle when surfing. We learnt that the person who has the right of way is given the priority to ride the wave. If you sneak in around him through a big “S” to get the right of way is considered offensive and selfish. Always wait for your turn and avoid robbing other people’s waves.
#4 Be Aware of Your Board
When you are learning to surf it is important that you learn ways to take care of your surfboard. These boards can be large, heavy, and quite slippery in the water so make sure that you are aware of your board at all times. Especially when you are paddling out into the sea and a wave is heading straight at you. An idle surfboard can be dangerous for the other surfers in the water as it may get in their way.
#5 Choose the Right Location
Before you end up at the beach, ask yourself whether you are able to surf that particular wave. Each surf spot has a different wave and choosing the right spot according to your surfing ability is important. If you head over to waves that you cannot surf, you will only end up coming in someone’s way or even injuring yourself. As a beginner start small and as you improve your skills, move on bigger and heavier waves.
#6 Communicate
The way to avoid any mistakes when surfing is to communicate with your fellow surfers around you. Whenever you are paddling out on the water, it is better that you let the surfer near know who is going to surf the wave before the wave peak. This way there won’t be any kind of confusion. Simple communication between surfers will ensure no one drops in on each other and enjoys their wave.
#7 Paddle Wide
Remember that waves are always changing so make sure you are away from where the wave breaks. When paddling towards your wave make sure that you navigate wide or you will end up crashing into other surfers surfing. Before you head out into the water, observe the waves and use your knowledge about waves to paddle the right way in.
#8 Apologize
If you make a mistake, a simple apology is highly appreciated. Being polite and showing good manners shows respect not only to the locals but also to the other surfers around. If you happen to bend any of the above mentioned guidelines and continue to do it. You will probably get a stink eye from your fellow surfers so make sure that you apologize, no matter what.
Surf Up!
Above everything make sure that you have equipped yourself with all the necessary surfing gears before stepping into the water. By following these surfing etiquettes you will not only improve your surfing skills but also have a great surfing experience. However, there are certain dangers to surfing. Read these guides so that you have an enjoyable experience.