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Surf’s up

Body Surfing and Board Riding.



Why are these tips important to you?
Body surfing and board riding are some of the most popular recreational activities in Australia today. Learning to enjoy the surf safely comes with practice, but following some simple etiquette in the water can help make your beach experience all the more enjoyable.

As a swimmer or body surfer, what do I need to keep in mind?
Always swim between the red and yellow flags to avoid unfavourable contact with a surfer and remember the FLAGS message. The flagged area often has waves within it, so if you want to body surf you will still be able to.

Here’s some body surfing tips:
  • Kick vigorously to lift your body to the surface
  • Start swimming until you feel the wave push you forward
  • Place your head down, keep your arms out in front of you and keep your body stiff as a board. Bodysurfing takes time to accomplish, so be patient!
  • IMPORTANT: Always keep your hands in front of you so they can support you if you get dumped by the wave.

As a board rider what do you need to keep in mind?
Remember to check conditions before heading out for a surf and be mindful of your own ability. If you do go make sure you go with a friend and take the right gear with you such as a wetsuit, leg rope or fins.

Whether body boarding or surfing, it is also important to be mindful that the beach and waves are there to share. Stay away from the red and yellow flagged area by and do your best to stay out of the ‘buffer zones’ on either side of that area. The buffer zones are usually indicated by the following signs or flags:


Surfing Prohibited   Surfboard riding    Surfboard riding is not permitted



Make sure you also look out for the following signs:



No Swimming            Surfboard riding          Surfcraft Prohibited
                          between flags prohibited



 Surfboard Riding              Bodyboards

Wave Etiquette
There are a few rules that surfers and body boarders should follow. Cooperation will ensure everyone will have fun in the surf.

  • If somebody is already on a wave, don’t try to paddle around them
  • The person closest to the breaking wave has the right of way
  • If there are local riders, pay them some respect as it is their break
  • Be patient and your wave will come
  • Share the surf and don’t steal other riders’ wave.
  • For more information about surfing etiquette and the surf code, go to www.surfingaustralia.com