I’ve been wanting to post this piece for a while because I feel like something that is getting lost, as surfing becomes more & more popular, is the unwritten yet very necessary “rules” of social surf etiquette.
The sport and lifestyle of surfing seem to be on a constant upward trend. And I get it, as all of us that surf do. Surfing is freaking awesome!! But the reality of it is: While the sport of surfing becomes more popular, the number of accessible surf breaks stay pretty much the same. So, what does that lead us to? The all-too-common crowded line up. And I think that this scenario is pretty prevalent worldwide.
So while crowded lineups are relatively unavoidable these days, I believe it’s important that us as surfers don’t allow these unwritten ‘rules’ of surf etiquette to drown out in the hype.
Kinda like how the ‘rules of the road’ are typically passed down from someone older or more knowledgable than you teaching you how to drive, the unwritten ‘rules of surf etiquette’ are typically passed down from generation to generation. And much like the rules of the road, the rules of surf etiquette are there to ensure everyone’s safety, as well as to help create some order (in a very chaotic place like the ocean) to make sure that everyone gets their fair share of rides.
Because that is what it’s all about right?? We’re ALL out there to catch waves and have fun. But in crowded lineups, it’s also very important to also be aware of the people around you.
So, if the term ‘surf etiquette’ is something that’s totally new to you (And that’s OK! We’ve all been beginners once!) then I highly recommend talking to or working with a surfer with experience, like a surf coach, to teach you more. But for the time being, I’ve put together 6 tips that have been taught to me over my many years of surfing that I think are the most important to know and use!
Respect the locals and those with the most experience because they are the ones that have put in the time.
When it comes to the ocean and surfing, no amount of knowledge can top years of experience. Plus, you don’t go over to someone else’s house and make yourself right at home do you?
If you’re paddling out and someone is taking off on a wave, do your best (aka: paddle hard!) to get out of their way.
Usually your best bet is to head for the whitewater and take it on the head. Of course this is always situational and sometimes you may be close enough to the shoulder to get out of the way without messing up the surfer’s line.
Generally speaking, the person closest to the peak has the right of way.
But this is not an end-all-be-all situation. Please make sure to read #4 + #5 too.
If you miss the wave that you were paddling for, you lose your turn.
Don’t paddle for the next one unless there is NO ONE else around you. If there’s someone else nearby and in position, it’s their turn — even if you’re still closest to the peak. Because remember what we learned in Pre-K?? Sharing is caring. ❤️
Follow the rotation: Once you catch a wave, go to the end of the line.
Take your time paddling back out. DO NOT paddle underneath/inside other surfers to get back to the peak. If you’re going to paddle straight back to the peak, at least paddle outside of the lineup. Let some waves be ridden by others while you slowly and humbling make your way back up to the peak.
Collect karma points by calling others into waves.
I promise it feels just as good as catching a wave yourself ☺️
If there’s anything you’d add to this list, share with us in a comment below, and let’s keep the convo going!
This piece was written with the intention to be informational and educational. Surfing is for everyone!!! Just remember that our sport is inherently dangerous and if we are not mindful of our surroundings, or other people around us, we can risk really injuring ourselves or another!