Surfing is a very popular pastime. It’s estimated there are 2.5 million recreational surfers in Australia and it’s understandably why. Australia has some fantastic swells that make it the perfect spot to discover the joys of surfing or challenge your current experience and skills.
Of course, any activity that involves the water is potentially dangerous. That’s why you’ll discover that most surfers support their surf lifesavers. A great way to do this is to enter the surf lifesaving lottery. It gives you the chance to win your own beachside property while supporting this valuable service!
If you’re new to surfing then you’ll want to practice as often as you can. But, you need to make sure you understand the sea and the best conditions for you as a beginner.
Wind Direction
The main types of wind at the beach are either onshore or offshore. If you’re facing an onshore wind then it will be blowing in from the sea across the beach. It’s better to surf in an offshore that blows out from the beach.
The reason is simple, it creates a cleaner wave and a cleaner wave is much easier to surf than one with a choppy edge. The waves are generally more predictable.
Swells
The basic swell is the height of the wave and this can be described differently according to where you are in the world. It’s always best to determine this according to what height the wave is on your body. Lower waves are obviously better for beginners but you’ll still want some swell.
You may hear groundswell be referenced. This is a description of the waves that are created out to sea by low-pressure systems. The further out they form the more capable they are of becoming big waves.
Peeling Waves
Another term that you need to know is peeling wavers. These will break at one spot and then continue to peel as they come in. It makes for a big open space where you can hone your skills.
People Numbers
As a beginner, you are more likely to come off your board while trying to ride the waves. That’s fine. But, you do need to be aware of how many people are around you. It’s best for beginners to choose quieter waves as this will reduce the likelihood of collisions, which no one wants.
Life Savers
Many Australian beaches have lifesavers that will monitor the water and help if anyone has issues. As a beginner surfer, it is always a good idea to use a monitored beach. This allows you to focus on the waves and surfing and have the confidence to push your limits, knowing help is at hand if you need it.
Timing
Don’t forget, you’re going to need to learn the tides. Waves, and therefore surf, tends to be best on an incoming time. It’s even better if this coincides with dawn or dusk, which makes excellent surfing conditions. You won’t just get to practice, you can chat to other surfers to improve your technique.