Surf etiquette is a proper code of conduct designed to keep everyone safe and happy in the water. It is important to memorize and adhere to these rules to avoid total chaos. Follow these unwritten rules to keep yourself and others out of trouble.

Here are the basics of surf etiquette:

1. RIGHT OF WAY

The surfer closest to the top of the wave has the right of way. Furthermore, the furthest surfer or the first to stand up has the right to be on the wave. In all these cases, other surfers will have to let the wave pass. Learn these ‘rules’ and act accordingly.

2. DO NOT LET YOURSELF FALL

Dropping is the act of stealing someone’s wave described in point 1. By doing so, you will create a dangerous situation for yourself and other surfers. A collision can occur, bones and boards can break. It’s a bad idea and everyone will be angry.

3. ROWING RULES

Do not paddle directly to the line where the waves break and people are surfing. It is wiser and safer to row through a channel where there is less chance of running. If you see a surfer coming your way, estimate their direction and then paddle in the other direction.

4. DO NOT LEAVE THE BOARD

Always keep control and contact with your surfboard. If you see a wall of white water coming your way, don’t leave your board because it could hit someone behind you. Learn to duck dive.

5. NO SNAKE

Paddling around someone to gain priority over the wave is called meandering. This can be very annoying and if you repeatedly make a big no-no.

6. SHARE WAVES

More experienced longboarders, kayakers, stand-up paddlers and surfers can catch waves much earlier and more easily, leaving little for other surfers. It doesn’t hurt to leave a wave for shortboarders indoors. Sharing is caring!

7. RESPECT THE BEACH

Leave only footprints. Throw your garbage in the trash cans and do not trash it in any way.

8. RESPECT FOR THE PREMISES

Respect the surfers who surf the place every day. Be friendly and do not crowd the place with a large group. Respect the environment in the water.

9. HELP OTHER SURFERS

Take care of each other and always help a surfer in trouble. You could possibly save someone’s life.

10. BE PATIENT AND HAVE FUN

Wait your turn to receive a wave. Eventually it will come. Be friendly and have fun.

11. IF YOU ARE WRONG: APOLOGIZE

It’s not the end of the world if you accidentally break one of these rules. Apologize and smile. They will forgive the first time.