Surf Rules
Surfing is an extremely fun and safe sport. There are a few things that can make your surfing experience even better, mostly common sense.
- Rips. Check out our Rip Currents section.
- Sun Cream . Always wear a good waterproof sun block. The salt water will drain your skin of its natural oils and the water will magnify the sun.
- Surf Mate . Always surf with at least one other person. Not only will you have a witness to your "wave of the day" but you will always have someone to help you out if you need it.
- Surf Conditions. Make sure that the surf is safe before you go in. If you are going surfing at a spot you are unfamiliar with it is a good idea to get some advice from a local lifeguard. A good ten minute survey of the surf before you jump in will save you lots of time in the water.
- Warm-up. Always have a quick warm-up and stretch before entering the surf. This will reduce the risk of muscle injury or cramp whilst you are surfing. It also gives you time to check for any rips or where the best spot to catch waves is.
- Alcohol. Surfing under the influence is not a good idea.
- Be Aware. Be aware of other surfers and water users, of the surf conditions, and of where you are surfing (see Patrolled Beaches).
- Food. As with swimming, do not go surfing for at least 45 mins after a meal.
- Lifeguarded Beaches. If you are surfing on a patrolled beach make sure that you keep within the designated surfing are. Take note of where you should be surfing before you go out, and make sure you stick to it when you are out. For surfing use the black and white checked flags.
- Priority. Always make sure that you are not taking anyone else's wave. Remember, the surfer who is closest to the breaking wave has priority. If you see someone already on a wave then the wave is taken and you'll have to wait for the next one.
- Practice. If you want to improve then you need to be in the water surfing as regularly as possible. No-one got any better at anything by staying home and watching TV.
- Respect. Respect the locals if you are visiting a beach. Remember that you are a guest and that waves should be shared.
- Enjoy. As the old cliche goes "the surfer having the most fun is the best surfer."
