Nothing matches the thrill of riding a wave. The fun is absolutely exhilarating. Sometimes in the excitement of it all, you can lose track of your position and put yourself or other surfers around you in a potentially dangerous situation. More and more people are out there surfing and the line-ups are getting more crowded. Experienced surfers abide by the code described below, so take the time to learn it, understand it and practice it when you are on the water.

Even if you have surfed your whole life, it is important to refresh your memory with the basic rules of surfing on a regular basis. Regardless of how much time you have been on the water, your safety and how you handle your board in the surf and your relationship with the surfers around you is your responsibility.

Always be aware of your position relative to the breaking surf, other surfers, the shoreline and any other potential hazards. Use common sense, respect the ocean and surf safely.

1. The person first on the wave or closest to the peak has the right of way on the wave.
2. Look right and left before you take off. Don’t drop in on someone!
3. If you take off in front of someone, pull out of the wave.
4. When paddling out, look behind you before you jump off your board if caught in the impact zone.
5. Paddle around the shoulder of the wave, not up through the middle. Use the channels.
6. During a set, paddle out in the safest direction to avoid the rider on the wave. Make eye contact with the rider.
7. Don’t always rely on your cord or leash to save you. It can break.
8. Know your limits. Don’t go out in surf bigger than you can handle. IF IN DOUBT, DO NOT GO OUT.
9. If you cause an accident, be sure to ask if the other surfer needs help. “I’m sorry, are you okay?” works wonders.
10. Be courteous and respectful of others in the water.