Learning to Surf on Vacation

Book a two-hour private lesson with a certified school on your first full day of vacation. Focus on mastering the 'pop-up' on a soft-top foam board in waist-deep water before attempting to catch your first wave.

1. Choose the right beach. Look for a beach with 'beach breaks' and a sandy bottom, rather than rocky reef breaks. Check surf reports for 'beginner-friendly' spots with waves under 3 feet (1 meter).
2. Book a private lesson. Group lessons often have a 6:1 ratio, which limits feedback. Spend the extra $30 for a private or semi-private session to ensure the instructor helps you correct your stance in real-time.
3. Master the 'pop-up' on land. Spend the first 15 minutes of your lesson practicing the movement from lying on your stomach to standing on the board on the sand. Do this at least 10 times until the muscle memory kicks in.
4. Stay in waist-deep water. Don't paddle out to the horizon. Keep the board perpendicular to the incoming waves, stay in water at waist height, and have your instructor push you into the wave as it starts to break.
5. Fall correctly. When you lose your balance, never dive headfirst. Fall away from your board, flat or feet-first, and protect your head with your arms until you surface.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

Yes. You should be comfortable treading water for 5 minutes and swimming 50 meters in open water. Always inform your instructor of your swimming ability level.

Will I stand up on my first day?

Most beginners manage to stand on their board for a few seconds by the end of a two-hour lesson if they have a good instructor and a stable foam board.