Surfers entering the water El Cotillo, Fuerteventura

SURFING ETIQUETTE – RULES OF THE WAVES

Nobody wants to be hit by a surfboard or cut-up whilst trying to catch a wave. It’s important be aware of the surfing etiquette and the unwritten rules of the road, or waves in this case before run into the surf carrying your board. There are some simple but effective do’s and don’ts in the surfing community that’ll help you, particularly when your at a busy surf spot. They should help you get along with other surfers and enjoy your surfing.

HERE’S SOME QUICK BASIC RULES OF SURFING:
  1. First surfer up on their feet, closest to the curl has the right of way (priority) as does the furthest out.
  2. Look both ways before taking off
  3. Do communicate, with “left” and “right”
  4. Paddle around the break to get out not through it.
  5. Always hold onto your surfboard.
  6. Help other surfers in trouble.
  7. Do not drop in – dropping into a wave ahead of someone when they have the right of way
  8. Do not snake – knowingly paddling around someone to gain priority on a breaking wave someone is already paddling for
  9. Do not throw your board
  10. Don’t be a wave hog
  11. Don’t surf near swimmers
  12. Surf waves and condition within your own ability
  13. Respect the beach, ocean and surfers.