10 Beginner Surf Tips
Ready to Start Your Surfing Adventure?
Finally decided to learn surfing? Awesome! Learning how to surf is an amazing experience and it’s so rewarding to see your progress. But becoming better at surfing takes time, patience and some guidance. Whether you are at a surf camp in Sri Lanka, Bali or heading out to learn surfing elsewhere, these 10 beginner tips will keep you safe, make you learn faster and get the most out of each session in the water!
#1 Start with the Basics
When you are new to surfing, it’s important to stay realistic. It’s tempting to watch professional surfers and already wanting to surf those bigger waves and barrels. But trying to paddle out in waves that are beyond your skill level can be frustrating and also dangerous.
So, start your surf journey with smaller and more forgiving waves. Beginner-friendly spots around Weligama or Hiriketiya are perfect for this. Use the right beginner surfboard and concentrate on getting better in the basics. Practice popping up, paddling and balancing on your board. As you get more comfortable and get better in these techniques, you can gradually move on to bigger waves and more challenging rides. Patience is the secret to progress in surfing!
#2 Pick the Right Surf Spot
Choosing a good beginner surf spot makes all the difference. Look for beaches with soft, white water waves, a sandy bottom and avoid crowded spots to practice safely. At Kima surf there are great beginner spots just a short walk away from our camps in Weligama or Hiriketiya. This way, you get more chances to practice without feeling overwhelmed or knocked over.
#3 Use The Right surfboard
Your first surfboard is your best friend, so choose wisely. And matching your surfboard size with your ability is important. For a beginner, a soft-top surfboard is always the best. These boards are covered with soft foam and are safer, longer-lasting and easier to handle. 7-9 Feet is perfect for learning, the extra stability and buoyancy help to paddle easier, catch waves and pop up. Once you feel more confident, you can think about upgrading to a funboard or shortboard. But for now, stick with a soft-top, they are your best friends in the water!
#4 Take Lessons with a Guide
If you want to learn how to surf, it’s best so sign up for a lesson with a surf guide or at a surf school. Experienced surf guides will teach you all the things you need to know, which is important to avoid beginner mistakes. From paddling and wave selection to how to do a proper pop-up. They’ll give you helpful tips, personal feedback and make sure you’re safe. Learning from locals also gives you the best inside tips about the best surf spots in Sri Lanka and the surf etiquette. Guided lessons are the easiest way to build confidence and enjoy your surf journey!
#5 Learn Surfing Etiquettes
Like in any sport or game, there are rules to be followed in surfing too, more commonly known as surf etiquettes. Respect in the water is key. Unwritten rules like who has priority on the wave, not dropping in on another surfer and respecting each other and the ocean. Your surf guide can help you understand these rules and observing experienced surfers is also a great way to learn. Following these rules will make your surf journey safer, more fun and it helps you to make friends in the line up
#6 Get Comfortable And Respect the Ocean
Spend time getting used to the ocean’s power before even attempting to go for bigger waves. It’s important to feel relaxed and calm in the water and respect its environment. The ocean can be unpredictable, but familiarizing yourself with the currents, tides and swells will help a lot. Always surf with a buddy or surf guide, especially when you are still figuring things out. By overcoming your fears of the ocean you are well on your way to being more relaxed. And that will make your surfing much more fun!
#7 Know Your Limits
We get it, once you start surfing, you don’t want to stop anymore. But don’t forget to listen to your body! Don’t surf big waves that are beyond your surfing level. Start with surfing on the smaller and easier waves and slowly move up into intermediate surfing.
Since surfing is a physical sport, make sure you stay hydrated and eat well. Make sure you’ll have energy, get plenty of rest and add some light yoga or stretching into your routine. This helps to avoid typical surf injuries and keeps you ready for your next session.
#8 Hydrate and Protect your Skin
Yes, you’ll be in the water most of the day, but it’s still important to drink plenty of water. Tropical climates like Sri Lanka’s can dehydrate you and drinking enough water avoids this. So don’t forget your water bottle when you’re heading out to the beach for your surf lesson. Before and after your surf session. Also, protect your skin with waterproof sunscreen or zinc and reapply every couple of hours. A rashguard (which comes with your Kima Package) also helps to protect your skin from the sun and saltwater or board irritation.
#9 Warm Up Before Your Session
Before you paddle out, take a few minutes to prepare your body for all the action. It makes a big difference! A warming up routine helps to avoid injuries and improves your surfing. Start with some dynamic stretches like lunges, arm circles, squats and high knees to loosen up. And if you want to be extra ready, practice 10-15 pop-ups on dry land. This helps you to get used to the moves and boost your confidence when you’re out surfing. Trust us, taking a few minutes to prepare your body and mind for the physical impact of surfing is a game changer!
#10 Have Fun & Be Patient
Last but definitely not least, remember that surfing should be fun. Do not fret about catching the ideal wave or standing up on your first wave. Rejoice in every little victory, the first decent pop-up or riding your first white-water wave, as each one is forward progress. Patience is the most important thing. All surfers progress at their own pace and start somewhere. It’s more than fine to experience good days and bad days.
Enjoy every moment in the water and take time to appreciate the sport. Be positive, keep going and most importantly, have fun out there!
Ready to start your surfing adventure?
Join us for our 5-day learn to surf school at Kima Surf Sri Lanka. We’ll guide you through every step of the way. Whether you’re completely new or looking to upgrade your skills, our surf lessons in Weligama and Hiriketiya are for you. Book today and get ready to ride Sri Lanka’s waves. We can’t wait to see you on the water!