How to surf (or at least an idea...)?

Question

I'd really like to learn how to surf but I don't know anybody that knows how. Internet guides don't really help, because...well I'm looking for someone that KNOWS how to surf that can help me. Please? I'd really like to make use of the waves on vacation, and stop thinking about the fact that I don't like to swim when it's too wavy. Any help would be appreciated a lot!

Answer 1

basically, John F said it ALL

Answer 2

You should really be a competent swimmer before you start to surf. Lessons are the best way to start, unless you are a young adult or adolescent with surfing pals who can teach you. You have to learn surf etiquette (so the experienced surfers in the line up don't want to drown you), how to paddle and take off on a wave, and how to ride a wave. There are already way too many dangerous people in the water. A danger to themselves and other surfers. Don't join their ranks.

Go to a real surf shop. The folks there can hook you up with lessons, and even rent you a board to learn on. (and, it's going to be either a longboard or a funboard [mini-mal]) Just work on your basics, and after you feel good, think about buying a board, but don't rush into anything. And, please don't waste your time (or money) buying something on line. Don't be in a rush to buy a board! TRY before you BUY. Rent a variety of types of surfboards, or borrow them from your friends who surf. A surfboard is a big investment.

Be careful of what you read here on line. After I found this site, I figured that I could answer a few questions, and spread the 'good news' of surfing. After you learn to swim and master the ocean, get your REAL advice from a surf shop. However, if they think you are just a 'kook' tourist out to rent a board, you won't necessarily get the best attention.

Most people learn best on long boards, although I have seen lots of surfers start on a short board and master it. In the long run, there are NO RULES on what type of board you have to learn on. Long boards are ideal for learners. There are also good internediate length boards to learn on, funshapes, mini-mals and some hybrids. That is why instructors use long boards or fun boards (or even softtops).

THE REAL BOTTOM LINE IS: Go to a Surf Shop, not a computer. I have been surfing since 1966 and I get my surfboard advice at good local shops at the places where I surf. The pros there can give you the right answers!! There is no way anyone could accurately recommend any particular surfboard for you on line. But the folks at the local shop know the local wave conditions, and can match your size and skill level with the right board for local waves.

Good luck. Once you try surfing (and learn the 'right way') you'll have fun for life.

Take the time to check out the links, especially surfingforlife.

http://www.surfingforlife.com/history.ht...

http://www.mckevlins.com/nopopstory.htm

http://360guide.info/surfing/surfboard-t

http://www.surfing-waves.com/beginner_su...

http://www.surfing-waves.com/beginner_su...

http://www.avalonsurfschool.com/index.ht...

Answer 3

Almost every surf instructor out there knows how to surf at some level.  If you want someone whe really "KNOWS" surfing, I suggest you look for a certified instructor who has been teaching for several years.

Don't worry abot the surf being too strong for you to learn in.  A competent instructor won't take you out in rough surf, too dangerous.

What are the beaches close to where you will be on vacation?  Shouldn't be hard to find a surf school near there.  Take a look at the nssia.org website for some of the accredited schools near you.  I've also included a website with plenty of good articles about learning to surf listed.