Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, knowing and following surfing etiquette ensures you’ll surf safely, navigate waters confidently, and have a great time. Every surf spot is different, but the rules of the waves remain the same.
Surfing Rules
- Understand Wave Priority
- One Surfer at a Time
- Don’t Snake Waves
- Understand Where To Paddle Out
- Control Your Board
- Surf Waves at Your Level
- Communicate Effectively
- Say You’re Sorry
- Respect the Locals
- Respect Your Playground
Think of surfing rules like the golden rule – treat fellow surfers how you would like to be treated. Respect, friendliness, and awareness go a long way in the water. Learn more about each surf rule below.
Surfing Right Of Way
Observing the surfing right of way is rule number one, and following surfing lineup etiquette will set you up for success in the water. The general rule is the surfer closest to the peak has the right of way.
Observe the surf lineup and paddle into position – start lower and wider than the other boarders and work your way into the line. If it’s an especially crowded surf lineup, be patient, strike up a good conversation, and catch a wave when it’s your turn.
Surfing Drop-In Rules
Dropping in means taking a wave already being surfed by another surfer – in short, stealing the wave.
Dropping in is bound to happen accidentally on occasion, but by being aware of your surroundings and understanding surf drop in rules, you can avoid angering other surfers and a potentially dangerous situation.
If you accidentally drop in on a person surfing, apologize and move out of the way as quickly as you can.
What Does Snaking Someone Mean?
What’s worse than dropping in? Snaking – which is paddling around another surfer to steal the right of way and take off on a wave.
Snaking is a deliberate move and one that won’t make you any friends. Be respectful of those around you to maintain a fun, safe surfing environment.
Don’t Paddle in the Way of Someone’s Wave
This is where your powers of observation come into play.
As you paddle out, keep other surfers in sight and give them (and yourself) enough space. Paddle around the break to avoid running into other surfers and to establish your position in the surf lineup.
If you find yourself in the impact zone, the area where the waves are breaking, paddle to the inside of the wave where the white wash is to duck dive. This ensures that you’re not in the way of a surfer riding the wave.
How To Control Your Surfboard
Develop the habit of holding on to your surfboard, even when facing a big wave. This can be a challenge for beginners, but it’s a necessary practice.
Ditching your board can cause injuries to yourself or to others around you, especially in crowded spots.
Learn how to duck dive – holding the rails of your surfboard and using momentum from your body weight to get you and your board under the wave safely.
Understand Your Skill Level
Surfing should be fun. Understand your skill level, and put yourself in a position to succeed.
If you’re new to surfing, work with an instructor or pair off with an experienced partner for your first few outings. Search for spots with favorable conditions and light crowds to work on surfing control and gaining confidence on your board.
Communicate Before the Wave Comes
Communication is key, especially when riding waves with other surfers.
Check to see if they’re aiming for the same wave, and give a shout to confirm where you’re headed. A friendly heads-up is always appreciated as you establish a surfing position.
Apologize If You Messed Up
Mistakes happen! Waves come quickly, and things don’t always go as planned in the water.
If you mess up, apologize and make the correction to avoid similar situations.
Respect the Locals
As you scope out a surf spot, pay attention to other surfers and notice how they move.
Locals tend to know the patterns, etiquette, and unwritten rules of the places they frequent. Give them respect (and the right of way), and you’ll be considered a welcome guest.
Respect the Beach
Surfing etiquette calls for respect for yourself, other surfers, and, of course, the environment.
Do your part to keep beaches clean and safe by picking up trash – especially your own – and leaving the area cleaner than you found it.
Safe Ways To Surf
A day on the waves is a day well spent when you practice good surfing etiquette and safety. Surfing safely means:
- Paying attention to weather conditions. Listen to weather warnings and choose locations with favorable conditions. Research the waves, wind, rip currents, and water depth. Most weather apps and beach websites or social media accounts regularly post updates throughout the day.
- Being aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to beach signage, lifeguards on duty, and any landmarks that will help you identify your origin point if you drift away. Surroundings include the creatures in the water with you – check to see what wildlife exists in your area to protect yourself and the environment.
- Surfing with others. Don’t go it alone! Surf with friends, a surf school, or find a comfortably populated area. Inform family or friends of your whereabouts before getting in the ocean.
- Properly equipping yourself. Oftentimes, you’re as good as your equipment. Make sure your surfboard and wetsuit are in quality condition. Set yourself up for a beach day with sunscreen, snacks, and water.
- Following surf etiquette. Practice the tips above. Communicate with other surfers, lead with respect, and take care of your surroundings.
Surfing safely is about having fun, being aware of your surroundings, and showing consideration for others in the water. Practice good surfing etiquette and safety guidelines and enjoy the best thing in the world, surfing.
