The following are Surf Vultures “Da Rulez,” this way, you can’t say, “I didn’t know!” Follow these simple guidelines, and not only will you have an enjoyable surfing experience, but you will also make friends and look forward to going surfing anywhere, anytime, because you are awesome!
It’s important to observe the correct etiquette while surfing. Otherwise, there is a risk of injuries. Most of the do’s and don’ts here are advice and can be used on most occasions. Please adhere to these unwritten rules, keep yourself out of trouble, and enjoy surfing.
1. RESPECT…
- Yourself
- The Locals
- The Environment
Observe Right of Way
Learn who has the right of way on the wave:
- The Surfer closest to the peak of the breaking wave has priority, not the surfer first to feet; ie, you could be on the shoulder of the breaking wave.
- If the wave is breaking in both directions (split peak), call out your direction, right or left, to let other surfers know which direction you are going so waves don’t get wasted.
- If someone has been waiting for a wave and you just got a set wave to let them go next
Don’t Drop In
Cutting in front of other surfers who are up and riding is a quick way of getting yourself in trouble or injured with other surfers. Observe the right of way.
Don’t Snake
Repeatedly paddling around someone to get into the inside position on a wave is a no-no.
Don’t Hog the Waves
Share them. Even if you can paddle furthest outside and catch the waves first every time you reach the lineup, share the joy of catching waves and make some new friends in the process.
Do Apologize
If you drop in on someone, run over someone, or breach the etiquette and rules in any way, apologize. It’s just good manners. We’ve all done things we shouldn’t have when out surfing; saying sorry goes a long way to smoothing things over, and don’t keep breaking etiquette and saying sorry… not cool.
Learn the Right Way to Paddle Out
This includes not ditching your board or paddling into the path of other surfers. Take a moment to observe the waves, and time your paddle out accordingly. Surfers paddling out need to duck dive the whitewash and not paddle up the wave face in front of the surfer on the wave. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask a lifeguard.
Surf Spots that Suit your Ability
Try not to pick a spot that is out of your ability range. You’ll only upset the other surfers by getting in the way or being a potential hazard for everyone. Always check with lifeguards if you are unsure of where to surf.
Help other Surfers
Always aid another surfer in trouble. Surfing can be dangerous and even fatal; look after each other.
Just be cool,