Surfing for Beginners in Sri Lanka
Top 5 Mistakes and How to Improve
Learning to surf in Sri Lanka is the ultimate experience for all beginner surfers out there. But do keep in mind that trying something new comes with its fair share of wipeouts, epic rides and long paddle sessions but it is always worth it in the end when you catch your first waves. At Kima Surf Camps in Sri Lanka we’ve guided many beginners from their very first learn to surf class to their guided sessions to Sri Lanka’s more intermediate surf spots. Mistakes are common in new hobbies, especially with surfing. The good news is that with the right tips and coaching they’re all easy to avoid or overcome.
Here are the top beginner mistakes to watch out for and how you can skip them on your surf journey with Kima Surf Camps.
Why is Sri Lanka Perfect for Beginners?
Sri Lanka is the perfect learn to surf destination for beginner surfers, thanks to the warm waters, mellow waves and consistent tides barely fluctuate throughout the day.
Weligama and Hiriketiya are two of the best beginner spots in Sri Lanka, these beaches are beach breaks with mellow and gentle waves ideal for novices. Plus these spots are in close proximity to our Kima Surf Camps in Weligama and Hiriketiya.
Beginner Mistake #1: Underestimating the Ocean
The ocean often looks calm and inviting but conditions can shift quickly. Swells, currents and tides can change quickly which can create safety hazards and that is why it is important for beginners to learn how to read the waves. Our 5 Day Learn To Surf Course will teach beginner surfers all the basics they need to know and get you catching your first waves at mellow and beginner-friendly spots like the ones next to our Weligama and Hiriketiya camps. At Kima Surf Camps in Sri Lanka we weave all of this ocean knowledge into our coaching. At Kima Surf we don’t believe in just learning how to ride waves, we believe in having a holistic surf experience and learning about ocean dynamics and how to respect the ocean.
Beginner Mistake #2: Skipping the Warm-Up
Surfing might look effortless but it’s actually a full-body workout. From paddling to popping up and riding waves – surfing demands strength and flexibility. A common beginner mistake we often see is surfers forgetting to or skipping a quick 5 minute warm up before paddling out to the line up – this can hinder your surf performance as your muscles can be tense putting you at risk of injury.
Just five to ten minutes of stretches before you enter the water makes all the difference. A warm up will help to get your blood pumping and also stretch out your shoulders, hips and back for the session ahead. At Kima Surf Camps, our surf guides will guide you through a warm up before each daily guided surf session making sure your body is ready to hit the waves.
Beginner Mistake #3: Overestimating Your Ability
Surfing is challenging, it takes time and patience is key, yes we understand you want to be surfing big waves and riding a shortboard, but doing this too soon can have a negative effect on your surfing progress. Heading into conditions that are too advanced or choosing equipment that doesn’t match your level is a mistake and won’t advance your progress. A shortboard may look cool but it will slow down your learning and lead to frustration.
You’ll build skills much faster (and have way more fun) starting on a soft-top or longboard in mellow waves. Mastering the basics like paddling with power, smooth pop ups and holding a balanced position gets you set up for long-term success in surfing. Remember that every pro started as a beginner. The goal is progress.
Beginner Mistake #4: Not Knowing Your Surf Etiquette
Surf etiquette are the unspoken rules of surfing and are how we keep the peace and respect in a line up. Most beginners are not aware of these rules; they break one of the essential rules and get called out, which is the hard way to learn. These mistakes will result in disruptions and occasionally collisions.
Surf etiquette can be learnt by watching how experienced surfers catch waves in a crowded line up, also asking our experienced surf guides questions will help you understand the do’s and don’ts in the surfing world. From navigating the lineup to knowing when it’s your turn on the wave. Our Kima surf guides make sure every beginner gets comfortable with these rules so you can surf with confidence, respect and good vibes.
Beginner Mistake #5: Looking Down
A lot of beginners will catch a wave and immediately stare down at their feet or board as soon as they pop up which is a mistake as your eyes are responsible for the direction in which your board will follow. When you look down you throw off your natural balance and make it much harder for you to stay on your board and the wave.
Train yourself to look in the direction you want to ride when catching a wave. Keep your eyes focused on the beach or down the line of the wave. This not only improves your balance but also helps you position yourself better and lets you flow with the wave. At first it might feel unnatural but the difference in your surfing once you start looking ahead or down the line is huge.
Learn and Adapt
Surfing is about learning, growing and most importantly having fun. Mistakes are a part of the process but by being aware of these common beginner mistakes will help you progress faster and stay safer which will help you enjoy every session that much more.
Whether you’re here for a short surf getaway or planning a longer stay at our Sri Lanka surf camps we’ve got everything you need to turn those first shaky pop-ups into a lifelong passion. With expert coaching, stunning locations and a laid-back surf community Kima is the perfect place to start your journey.
Start Your Surf Story With Kima
Join our 5-day Learn To Surf Program or book your stay at one of our camps in Weligama or Hiriketiya. With daily surf sessions, theory classes and the unbeatable island lifestyle and you’ll surf the right way!