Newcastle Surf School Blog

Top 5 Surfing Tips for Beginners this Season

Thinking about hitting the waves for the first time this surf season? At Newcastle Surf School, we know how exciting (and a little intimidating!) it can be when you’re just starting out. That’s why we’ve put together our top 5 tips for beginner surfers to help you make the most of your lessons and have a blast out on the water. Whether you’re completely new to surfing or looking to improve your skills, these tips will set you up for a great start this season.

1. Start with the Right Equipment

When it comes to learning how to surf, having the right gear makes all the difference. For beginners, a soft-top surfboard is your best friend. These boards are more stable, forgiving, and easier to handle than hardboards, which helps when you’re learning to balance and catch your first waves. At Newcastle Surf School, we provide beginner-friendly boards, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.

Don’t forget about your wetsuit! The water can still be a little chilly, even in the warmer months, and a well-fitted wetsuit will keep you comfortable and help with buoyancy. We’ve got wetsuits available in all sizes to make sure you’re prepared for the conditions.

Early Bird Discounts and How to Sign Up

Want to score some awesome deals? We’re offering early bird discounts for those who sign up for lessons before the season fully kicks off. It’s the perfect way to save on your surfing journey while securing a spot before classes fill up.

Booking is super easy—just select the lesson that suits you, and lock in your session.

Pro tip: group lessons are a great way to share the fun with friends and family, so why not bring them along too?

2. Master Basic Surfing Etiquette

Surfing isn’t just about catching waves—it’s also about respecting others in the water. Understanding the basic rules of surf etiquette will keep you safe and help you blend into the surf culture. Here are a few key points to remember:

• Respect the lineup: Wait your turn and don’t paddle in front of someone who’s already riding a wave.
• Don’t drop in: If someone else is already paddling into a wave, don’t cut them off by trying to ride the same wave.
• Look out for others: Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid collisions, and always be mindful of fellow surfers.

These rules help create a positive, safe environment for everyone in the water, so you can focus on having fun!

3. Practice Pop-Ups on Land

The pop-up is one of the most important movements in surfing, and it’s something you can practice even before you hit the water. By practicing on the beach or at home, you’ll build the muscle memory you need to make this motion smoother and faster once you’re on your board.

To practice:

• Lie face down on the sand (like you would on your surfboard).
• Place your hands flat by your chest, then push up quickly.
• Jump your feet to the middle of the board in a crouched stance, with your knees bent and eyes forward.

The more you practice your pop-up on land, the easier it will be when you’re out in the water!

4. Understand Wave Conditions

Learning to read the waves and tides is key to becoming a better surfer. The conditions at Newcastle’s beaches change daily, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for. For beginners, smaller, gentler waves are ideal for practicing the basics.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Check the tide: Low tides can make waves break closer to shore, which is good for practicing small waves. High tides can create bigger, more powerful waves.
• Observe the wind: Offshore winds (blowing from the land towards the sea) create cleaner waves, while onshore winds (from the sea towards the land) can make waves choppier and harder to surf.
• Watch other surfers: Before paddling out, spend a few minutes watching how the waves are breaking and where the other surfers are positioned. It’ll give you a sense of the best spot to catch your wave.

5. Stay Safe and Have Fun

Surfing is all about having fun, but safety should always come first—especially for beginners. Make sure you’re comfortable in the water, stay in the shallower areas where you can stand, and never surf alone. If you’re feeling unsure, your instructor will be there to guide you, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.

And remember, falling is part of the process! Everyone wipes out—what’s important is learning how to fall safely. Try to fall flat to avoid injury and protect your head if you’re thrown off balance.

Most importantly, enjoy yourself! Surfing is a rewarding sport that takes time and practice, so be patient, take it slow, and celebrate the small victories—like standing up on your board for the first time!

Ready to get started?

At Newcastle Surf School, our instructors are here to help you every step of the way. With these tips in mind, you’ll be cruising the waves in no time. Book your lesson today and get ready for an unforgettable surf season!