| If you’re interested in learning to surf there | | | | your level of experience. No matter how good a |
| are a few things you need to be aware of before | | | | swimmer you are, if you are knocked |
| heading out. | | | | unconscious in the surf, you are at high risk of |
| Your safety and the safety of those around you | | | | drowning, so surfing with a ‘buddy’ or in |
| should be your first concern. There are risks | | | | a group is also wise. |
| involved that you must be aware of and | | | | Proper instruction for beginners is essential, even |
| understanding how to minimize these risks will help | | | | if only to raise safety awareness. Many of the |
| make your experience a positive one. The | | | | popular surfing destinations such as Hawaii, |
| ocean can be a dangerous place and must be | | | | California, Australia and Costa Rica have surf |
| respected. | | | | schools which offer instruction, either one-on-one |
| Obviously, being a strong swimmer will help, but | | | | or in groups. Experienced instructors will know |
| keep in mind that even an elite athlete can be | | | | and understand the local conditions and make sure |
| swept away in a strong rip. All too often, | | | | you are safe. The best surf spot for a learner is |
| tourists find themselves in trouble because they | | | | somewhere with consistent waves and plenty of |
| have underestimated the dangers and are | | | | room to practice. |
| unfamiliar with the conditions of a certain area. | | | | The equipment you use will depend on your level |
| Learn about potential dangers specific to the | | | | of experience, personal preference and the |
| area before you go out. For example, certain | | | | conditions. Beginners typically start on a |
| types of sea life may be a concern - find out if | | | | longboard, which has more stability and faster |
| there are any dangerous species common to the | | | | paddling speed than shorter boards. A leash is |
| local area. Ask locals or Surf Lifesavers about | | | | usually worn to keep you attached to your board, |
| the safest places to surf. | | | | but it is still possible to be separated from your |
| Collisions with any obstacle, sand bars, rocks, | | | | board so keep in mind, if you cannot handle the |
| reefs, surfboards or other surfers can cause | | | | conditions without your board, don’t go in! In |
| serious injury or death – another reason why | | | | colder areas, most surfers will wear a wetsuit to |
| it is important to know what you are doing and | | | | protect themselves. Gloves and helmets can |
| choose conditions and equipment appropriate to | | | | also be worn for added protection. |