How to read the Ocean before your surf lesson
Before you paddle out, there is more to look at than just the waves.
Understanding the ocean is one of the most important parts of learning to surf. You don’t need to be an expert but knowing what to look for can make your session safer, easier and much more enjoyable.
1. Look at the waves
Watch the ocean for a few minutes before getting in.
Where are the waves breaking? Are they small and gentle, or are they powerful and fast? Do they break in the same place or in different areas?
Taking a moment to observe can tell you a lot about the conditions.
2. Check the current
Water is constantly moving.
Currents can make it harder to stay in one place or can move you away from where you entered the water. This is one of the reasons why beginners shouldn’t simply paddle out without knowing the conditions.
Your instructor can show you where the current is and where it is safest to enter and exit.
3. Know what is underneath you
Lombok has different types of surf breaks, including sandy beaches and reef breaks.
As a beginner, knowing what the bottom looks like is important. Your instructor will choose a suitable spot based on your experience, the waves, the tide and the conditions of the day.
4. Understand the tide
The same beach can look completely different depending on the tide.
The size, shape and position of the waves can change throughout the day. That’s why there isn’t always one perfect time to surf a specific spot.
Local knowledge makes a big difference.
5. Watch other surfers
Before entering the water, watch how other surfers move.
Where are they paddling out? Where are they catching waves? Where are they getting back to the beach?
You can learn a lot just by observing and it helps you understand the rhythm of the spot before you become part of it.
6. Listen to your instructor
You don’t need to figure everything out yourself.
A good surf lesson isn’t just about teaching you how to stand on a board. It’s also about understanding the ocean, choosing the right waves, knowing where to position yourself and learning how to stay safe in the water.
That’s why we always take the time to explain the conditions before getting in.
The ocean changes every day.
Learn to read it, respect it and enjoy it.
Ready to learn how to surf in Lombok? Join us at Banditos Surf School and we’ll take you through it step by step.
