Newport Beach Surf Lessons Top 10 Tips

Newport Beach Surf Lessons Top 10 Tips

Top Ten things you should know if you decide to try and learn to surf on your own.

Wave Height - Check the wave heights for the day you are planning on going out. It's always important to check if there is a swell on the way, because the waves could look small and within an hour of hitting the water it could rise very quickly. When you are in Newport Beach or anywhere for that matter always watch the waves for at least 15 minutes to have a good idea of how big they are. Here is a good place to check for surf conditions and much more - http://www.surfline.com

Water Quality - Here in Newport Beach California you'll want to make sure your not getting into the water right after it rains because of the run off. Check the water quality here - http://www.newportbeachca.gov/index.aspx?page=228

Water Temperature - Yes, I know, you're from the subzero part of the world, but if you plan on learning to surf in Newport beach you're going to want a wetsuit. Ask for a 4/3 during the winter months and a 3/2 during spring and fall. Summer is a different story but it can still be a little cold and a spring suit is definitely a good idea.

What Size Board to Rent - If you've never surfed before I'm going to "highly recommend" taking at least one surf lesson first, for many reasons! But...If your like me, (Mr. I can do anything, after I get my butt handed to me a few times) make sure you get at least a 8-9 foot long board (9 foot is better). If the surf shop is all out of 8 or 9 foot boards my opinion is to not waist your time with anything smaller.

Where Can You Surf - Here in Newport Beach California we have something called "Black Ball", which means you can't surf during certain times of the year in certain areas. Make sure to find out before you rent a surf board and find out the beach you're going to doesn't allow surfing.

Respect the Locals - Always be respectful and cautious of people out in the water. There is localism in certain areas so be sure know about surf etiquette if you decide go out on your own.

Have a Surf Buddy - Make sure to have at least one other person with you so you two can keep an eye on each other when you're out in the surf. It's always best to have someone on the beach watching as well.

Food & Water - Make sure to allow about 2 hours after eating before going into the surf and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! The combination of the salt water and sun will cause you to need more water than usual. Bring a few bottles of water with you and maybe a little snack for after you get out of the water, surfing makes you mighty hungry :-).

Know Your Limits - If you are completely out of shape, I'm mean Really out of shape, surfing may not be the right sport for you try. Now I'm not saying you have to be an olympian, just know your limits. If you get extremely fatigued really quickly make sure you have a buddy with you and preferable a life guard on duty. Also, this goes without saying but never turn your back to the ocean (when in the water of coarse) and please don't dive off your board, its usually shallow and testing how hard the bottom is compared to your head is not fun.

Have Fun - Next to safety this is the most important part. Don't take it to seriously, you're most likely on vacation and here to have fun! I would definielty say the fun factor will increase ten fold if you take a lesson first, but hey, I know they can be bit pricey and you may just want to see what it's like to lay on a surf board, so if that's the case, Have Fun and Happy Surfing! :-)