If you want to try surfing while you are traveling, but your big problem is you do not know how, there's good news for you. Many popular beach locations offer surfing lessons you can take while on vacation.
First, it is important to understand that surfing, while exhilarating, can be difficult and even dangerous. It is very important to have a working knowledge of water and surfing safety. It is advisable to seek proper training and use the right equipment to prevent serious injury. While you can simply read up about surfing, hop on a board, and try surfing without any face-to-face instruction, doing so, without being well versed in safety, can result in injury and even death.
Enrolling in surfing lessons is a fun and safe way to try surfing for the first time. Make sure your surfing instructor is an expert surfer who has been well trained in safety. A typical surfing lesson may include instruction in water safety, proper surf board care and handling, paddling, training, popping up, riding, reading the ocean, catching a wave, surfing terminology, and etiquette. Lessons are typically a couple of hours at a time and you may need more than one lesson. If you would like more than a lesson or two, enroll in a surf camp. Surf camps typically last for a period of one week or more and allow for more in depth instruction.
Some vacation hot spots include surfing instruction as part of the vacation package. This type of vacation package can include round trip airfare, hotel accommodations, and a specified number of surf lessons, all included in the price of the vacation package. Adventure tour companies offer travel that is based solely on learning to surf. If you decide to go on a surfing tour, instead of trying surfing as a recreational activity, most of your time will involve surfing, with other activities being involved to a lesser extent. Guests of surfing tours usually receive personalized instruction, surfing gear, transportation, and overnight accommodations. Sometimes meals are included as well.
Although many surfing schools and camps have demo boards for use during lessons, you may be more comfortable with your own board. When choosing your first surf board do not spend a large amount of money. You are extremely likely to scratch and dent your board while you are learning to surf, so it is best to buy a cheaper board and upgrade to something flashier once you have gained some experience. Choose a thick, long board to allow for easier floatation and paddling. The wider, larger, more buoyant boards are easier to learn on, as well as being more fun to use on small or weak waves. These larger boards are often called mals or mini mals.
If you decide to forego surfing lessons in favor of trying it on your own, be sure to check out the local surf shop at your travel destination. Surf shops are a great resource for surfing gear, equipment, and local surf information as well as videos and manuals.
