Do you have a hard time getting out to the line-up? Hate surfing in the crowd because you feel like you are in the way? Here are some tips on how to navigate a busy lineup and get to the outside more efficiently.
Look for the channel. You generally want to paddle out in a rip current at beach breaks. At a point break the channel is much easier to find.
Rip currents can normally be found in-between peaks at a beach break. A good indicator of a rip current is a change in the color of the water and water fluctuation.
Be committed to paddling out. Don’t hesitate or chat with a friend, don’t stop and fix your bikini, etc. Don’t waste time/energy in the impact zone when you have decided to paddle out.
Breathe with each stroke of your paddle and keep your breathing steady.
Paddle over the small waves by pressing yourself up to the push-up position as you go over the wave.
Turtle roll the big waves that have already broken. My rule of thumb is “If in doubt turtle roll”. So, if you don’t know if you are going to make the wave by paddling over it. You are better off doing a turtle roll. Don’t worry, if you do not know what a turtle roll is watch this short clip. https://youtu.be/Soq_KScv-x0
What not to do in the line-up.
Don’t paddle behind people on your way to the outside
If you find yourself surrounded by people and a set is coming, spread out. Communicate with other surfers to avoid colliding.
Don’t paddle directly out to the peak and take a wave right away. Wait your turn and be friendly. A smile goes a long way.
If someone is riding a wave toward you and you do not have time to pass in front of them. You have to paddle behind the person that is up and riding and get out of their way. This may mean you have to take the most powerful part of the wave on your head, but that is how surf etiquette works.