5 Common Mistakes Beginners Make—And How to Avoid Them

5 Common Mistakes Beginners Make—And How to Avoid Them

Avoid common beginner surfing mistakes that slow your progress. Learn how to paddle, pop up, and read waves like a pro with these simple tips.

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Surfing is one of the most rewarding sports to learn, but it comes with a steep learning curve. For beginners, a few common mistakes can slow down progress or even lead to frustration. The good news? These mistakes are easy to avoid with the right guidance.

1. Using the Wrong Surfboard

Many beginners start with boards that are too small or advanced for their skill level.

Solution: Opt for a foam board like the 9’6” San O, which provides stability, buoyancy, and a forgiving surface for falls. Longer boards make catching waves easier and improve balance.

2. Paddling Inefficiently

Improper paddling leads to fatigue and missed waves.

Solution: Focus on long, controlled strokes. Keep your chest up, weight centered, and paddle straight rather than flailing your arms. Practicing paddling on flat water before hitting the waves can help.

3. Standing Too Early

Beginners often pop up too soon, resulting in wipeouts.

Solution: Wait until the wave lifts you and provides enough momentum. Practice the pop-up technique on land to build muscle memory.

4. Ignoring Surf Etiquette

Cutting people off or not knowing right-of-way rules can create unsafe situations.

Solution: Learn the basics of surf etiquette. Respect the lineup, wait your turn, and always look before paddling for a wave.

5. Failing to Read the Conditions

Beginners often paddle out in conditions beyond their skill level.

Solution: Start with small, slow-breaking waves. Learn how to read surf reports (see our guide below) to choose the right conditions.

Avoiding these common mistakes can make learning to surf smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. With patience, practice, and the right board, you’ll be riding waves in no time.

Ready to get started? Check out our beginner-friendly boards like the 9’6” San O