How to Get Into Surfing: A First-Timer’s Guide

So you’ve been eyeing the waves and thinking, “I’d love to try that.” Good news — surfing is more accessible than it looks, and getting started doesn’t require perfect conditions or elite fitness. It just takes curiosity, some basic gear, and a willingness to get wet and have fun.

This beginner-friendly guide walks you through the steps to try surfing for the first time — from choosing the right board to paddling into your first wave. Let’s get into it.

Step 1: Choose the Right Beginner Surfboard

Start with a soft-top longboard — they’re stable, buoyant, and way more forgiving when you wipe out (which you will — and that’s okay).

Look for something in the 8- to 9-foot range, and keep it simple:

Foam boards are ideal for safety and learning
Wide and thick shapes help with balance
Avoid shortboards (they’re for advanced surfers)
Rent before buying to test different sizes

Step 2: Pick the Right Beach and Conditions

Not all beaches are beginner-friendly. Look for spots with slow, rolling waves and sandy bottoms — no sharp reefs or rocks.

Good beginner conditions usually include:

Small waves (knee to waist high)
Minimal crowds and lots of space
Gentle whitewater near the shore
Lifeguard presence for extra safety

Step 3: Learn Basic Safety and Etiquette

Surfing is fun, but the ocean is powerful. Knowing how to stay safe — and how to behave in the lineup — keeps things smooth and respectful.

Before paddling out, be sure to know:

How to fall flat to avoid injury
Who has priority on a wave
How to keep control of your board
Where to paddle out without getting in the way

Step 4: Practice Your Pop-Up on Land

The pop-up is how you go from lying down to standing on the board — and practicing it on land helps lock in muscle memory.

Here’s a basic pop-up flow to try on a yoga mat:

Start in a push-up position with feet extended
Push through your arms and bring back foot forward
Land with feet shoulder-width apart
Stay low with bent knees and arms up

Step 5: Get in the Water and Have Fun

The best way to learn is to do it. Start in the whitewater, catch some small waves, and don’t worry about style — just focus on feeling the board under you.

Tips for your first few sessions:

Start on your belly and ride straight to the beach
Keep sessions short and fun (30–60 min)
Celebrate small wins like standing for 2 seconds
Ask friendly locals or take a lesson if you’re unsure

Why This Matters

Starting your surf journey on the right foot saves you time, energy, and frustration. With the right board, beach, and mindset, you’re setting yourself up for progress and stoke — not struggle.

Plus, early wins (like catching your first wave) boost your confidence and build positive momentum to keep going.

Expert’s Advice

Many coaches suggest starting with one goal per session — like catching whitewater or just standing up once. Trying to master everything at once leads to overload.

Also: skip the ego. Everyone falls. Everyone flails. Laugh it off, take a break when needed, and come back with fresh energy.

Real-Life Tip

Wear a rash guard or surf shirt, even if the water is warm — it helps prevent board rash and sunburn, two things that can cut your first surf day short fast.

Also, bring snacks and water. You’ll be surprised how much energy you burn just learning to paddle and balance.

Additional Tips for First-Timers

Don’t rush out to buy all the gear on day one. Rent, borrow, or go minimal to get a feel for what you actually need. And don’t forget to check the tide — some beginner spots only work at high or low tide.

Finally, celebrate progress. Even paddling out past the break is a big win your first few times. It all counts.

Takeaway

Getting into surfing is less about being great and more about showing up, having fun, and riding the learning curve with stoke. Start small, stay safe, and let the ocean teach you — one wave at a time.