Etiquette and Rules

Surfing etiquette is very important for beginner surfers – well for all surfers, beginners just tend not to know.  Below is a list of surfing rules that all surfers follow. Please read these then read them again. Then read them before you go to the beach. If everyone could follow these rules there would be much less hostility in the water at crowded surf spots.

• The person on the inside of the wave, nearest the peak, who stands up first, is entitled to the wave.  You should avoid them. Do not try to ride the wave at all costs.  If you steal their wave, you have “dropped in” on them
• When paddling into the line up it is your responsibility to avoid people riding towards shore.  The line up is where the surfers sit on their boards, just outside where the waves are breaking
• Do not surf areas that are unfamiliar to you
• Do not surf waves that are beyond your ability
• Everyone, including you is a lifeguard.  If you see someone in trouble you must do everything you can to help them
• Respect the locals or they will not let you surf on their beach
• Don’t let your surfboard go, even if a wave hits you. It can hit other surfers and cause serious injury
• Keep the beach clean
• Do not kayak or SUP (Stand Up Paddle Board) near surfers
• If you are a beginner, do not surf near other surfers until you have the basics learned
• Practice in an area for beginners
• Talk to the lifeguards before heading out if concerned about conditions or at a new spot
• Do not take every wave. Share them.
• Be friendly, do not fight in the water
• Always try to surf with a friend. If something happens you will need to depend on them to help you
• Never surf under the influence of anything (drugs, alcohol, medication, etc.)
• Always have a first aid kit in your car
• Beware of sea life around you in the area that you are surfing
• Know the rules of the beach you are surfing at
• Wear a leash on your board
• Do not surf around swimmers if possible
• Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun