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Surfing Rules
Before entering the water
- If you are a beginner and want to ride white water (we've all been there) do not choose somewhere
where other surfers are finshing their rides. Try and find an area where there are few people.
- If your board control is not too good avoid surfing in
crowded areas. It's easier to catch waves with less people around and safer for others. Since you'll
catch more waves, you'll improve faster.
- Listen to your gut instincts and never surf in conditions that are beyond your ability. Every surfer, even
those with experience have to make this call at one time or another. When out of your comfort zone you are
more likely to make mistakes and endanger yourself or others. Know your limits.
- Where a spot is already very crowded use your common sense and consider surfing elsewhere. Paddling out
into a crowd of surfers means you are adding to frustrations.
Paddling Out
- Do not paddle out directly into the impact zone (area where the waves are breaking). You will use less energy
if you paddle out in the channel (area where waves are not breaking) and will be less likely to get in the
way of other surfers that are up and riding.
- When paddling out any surfer that is riding a wave has right of way. It is your responsibility to stay out of their way
and not interfere with their ride. Racing to get over a wave before it breaks often means that you
cut accross a surfers intended path. Avoid this by paddling behind the surfer towards the white water.
Confronting the white water is not always so appealing but what goes around comes around.
- Always try to be aware of where others are around you. Try not to paddle out directly infront or behind other
surfers who are paddling. This can lead to collisions in the white water.
- Loose surfboards can cause serious injury. Do not throw your board away to rely on your leash. Always hold
onto your board, even if this means taking a beating in the white water.
Wave Priority
- When paddling for waves the surfer closest to the whitewater has priority. For example do not paddle for a wave if the
wave is breaking on your right and there is already a surfer paddling to your right. Likewise on your left hand side.
- Catching a wave when another surfer is already up and riding is 'dropping in'. Don't do it. Ever!
- Do not paddle ahead of those who have priority and take waves. This is considered 'Snaking' and will cause
resentment.
Environment
- Maintain good relationships with local residents and land owners.
- Be polite.
- Don't leave litter.
- Park sensibly.
Remember... "give respect, gain respect"
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