Doing your homework means learning about the weather and wave conditions that affect where you plan to surf. Some say surfing is "a winter sport," and for the expert surfer, that's true. If you are in search of gentle waves for a fun day at the beach, though, smaller summer surf may be just the ticket. So learn how to identify the waves that you want -- and are able -- to surf.
Even if you plan to rip it up on the 60-foot waves of Maverick's one day, you have to start on smaller stuff to gain the strength and skills to live through it. All outdoor sports involve a measure of risk, but don't let the old Gidget movies blind you to the particular risks of surfing. Surf within your limits, and if an emergency arises -- like getting banged on the head with your board or getting cut with a fin -- you'll have enough left over to get back to the beach safely.
Respecting the Beach
At its most basic, respecting the beach means treating where you surf as you would any backcountry area: bring what you need, and pack it all back out again. It also means approaching the waves and water with safety in mind: be aware of your environment and control your board.
Respecting the beach also means observing surf etiquette. Surfers are sometimes accused of being territorial, even hostile to newcomers. It's important to work into a new area slowly and observe the customs of right of way on the wave. One of the biggest dangers on a wave is a loose board, and the more people are at a spot, the more likely someone is to get hit by a board. Part of surfer "territoriality" is the simple fact that a crowded wave is not as safe.
Organizations such as Surfrider chapters, local rider groups, and marine studies projects also offer an important avenue for respecting the beach. They organize beach clean-ups, work to protect beaches, and monitor water quality. Whether or not you surf regularly, consider locating the organizations in your area and volunteering some time.
Surfing Travel -- And Should You Go Somewhere Warm to Learn?
Surfing gives you a new way to enjoy some of the most beautiful spots on the planet. There is surfing in almost every part of the world -- even Northern Europe! But you'll probably want to travel to Hawaii, Mexico, Indonesia, or the South Pacific.
