Surfing has always held a certain magic. There’s something about the ocean breeze, the rhythm of the waves, and that unmistakable sense of freedom that keeps drawing people in. But not everyone wants to live in a wetsuit or turn surfing into a full-time lifestyle—and that’s perfectly okay.
This guide is for anyone who's curious about surfing but not ready to commit full-time. Maybe you’re just visiting the coast, or you want a fun, occasional hobby that connects you with nature and gives you a dose of adventure. You don’t need to master big waves or chase swells year-round to enjoy what surfing has to offer.
Even a casual relationship with surfing can be rewarding, relaxing, and a lot of fun. With a little prep and the right mindset, you can ride the waves—your way.
Surfing 101: The Basics You’ll Want to Know
Before you paddle out, it helps to understand what surfing involves—no pressure to be perfect, just a basic sense of what to expect.
Surfing is essentially riding waves on a board while balancing and adjusting to the ocean’s movement. It sounds simple, but there’s a bit of coordination involved. Don’t worry—it’s not as intimidating as it might seem at first.
Paddling: One of the first things you’ll do is learn how to paddle your board. This is how you get into position to catch a wave. Use long, relaxed strokes and keep your shoulders loose. It’s easier on calm water, so consider practicing there first.
Picking the Right Wave: Not every wave is a winner, and that’s totally fine. As a beginner, look for smaller, slower waves that break gently. Spend a few minutes watching the surf before heading in—you’ll start to notice where the best beginner-friendly waves roll in.
Casual Surfing: The Sweet Spot Between Chill and Thrill
One of the best parts about casual surfing is that it’s entirely on your terms. There’s no need to chase every big swell or commit to daily practice. You can dip in when you feel like it, take breaks when you don’t, and just enjoy the ride—literally.
Try Different Beaches: You’re not tied to one surf spot. Exploring new beaches keeps the experience fresh and fun, and each location brings a slightly different vibe.
Make it Social: Surfing doesn’t have to be a solo sport. Going out with friends or joining a group lesson can make it more enjoyable—and less intimidating. Swapping tips and celebrating wipeouts together can be half the fun.
Finding the Right Spot: Where You Surf Matters
Choosing a beginner-friendly beach can make your experience a lot more enjoyable—and a lot less frustrating. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Gentle Waves: Look for beaches with small, consistent waves that don’t crash too hard.
Less Crowded Areas: Fewer people in the water means more space for you to practice without stress.
Surf Schools Nearby: If you’re unsure, pick a beach with lessons available—you’ll learn faster and feel safer.
Good Facilities: Showers, changing areas, or even a nearby café can add a nice touch to your surf day.
The Essentials: Gear Up Without Going Overboard
You don’t need a ton of gear to start surfing casually, but having the right stuff can make a big difference in how fun (and safe) your session is.
Surfboard:
Go for a Soft-Top: These are perfect for beginners—stable, safe, and easier to balance on.
Think Bigger: A longer board is easier to learn on and helps you catch waves more easily.
Wetsuit:
Match the Water: A 3/2mm wetsuit works well for most conditions and keeps you warm.
Fit Matters: It should feel snug but still allow you to move comfortably.
Leash:
Keeps your board close so you’re not swimming after it every time you fall off (which will happen, and that’s part of the fun).
Wax:
A bit of board wax adds grip so you’re not sliding around when you pop up.
If you’re only surfing occasionally, renting gear can be a great way to try things out without the commitment or cost of owning it all.
Starting Out: Surfing Techniques to Build Confidence
You don’t need to be perfect to get started. Surfing is all about small wins—standing up for a few seconds, catching your first wave, laughing when you wipe out.
The “Pop-Up”: This is the move from lying down to standing up. Practice on the sand first—it’s less wobbly and helps build muscle memory.
Balance Tips:
Keep your knees bent and arms out.
A low center of gravity helps with stability, especially on your first rides.
Timing: Catching a wave at just the right moment takes practice. Watch the waves, paddle with purpose, and don’t get discouraged. Every surfer started where you are.
Staying Safe While Having Fun
The ocean is amazing—but it also deserves respect. A few simple precautions can keep things fun and safe:
Check Conditions: Make sure the weather and surf conditions are beginner-friendly.
Watch for Rip Currents: Learn how to spot them—and how to get out if you get caught in one.
Surf With a Buddy: Having someone with you makes a big difference in case of unexpected situations.
Respect Beach Rules: Every spot may have different guidelines. Look out for signs and local etiquette.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a rash guard, and hydration go a long way toward keeping you comfortable.
Not Ready to Surf Often? Try These Alternatives
If you love the water but aren’t always up for surfing, you’ve still got options. These water activities offer similar fun with less effort and gear:
Bodyboarding: Ride the waves while lying down—it’s a fun, simple intro to wave riding.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Calm, peaceful, and a great workout. You don’t need waves, just a calm stretch of water.
Kayaking: Explore the shoreline, spot wildlife, and enjoy the water at your own pace.
These alternatives give you a lot of flexibility and still connect you to the ocean’s energy and beauty.
Connect with Surfing Communities (Without Pressure)
Getting involved with casual surfing communities can add a lot to your experience—whether it's a quick tip, a friendly chat, or a chance to join an outing.
Join a Local Club: Some offer beginner-friendly events, beach cleanups, or social surf sessions.
Follow Online Groups: Social media has tons of local surf groups where people share conditions, gear swaps, and casual meetups.
Attend Events: Local surf festivals and competitions are great for inspiration, even if you’re not competing.
Conclusion
Renting surf gear not only makes surfing while traveling from Palm Springs remarkably feasible but also aligns with sustainable practices emphasized in today's adventure lifestyles. Embrace the waves without a long-term commitment and extend your outdoor experiences with surfboard rentals. Before heading out, visit GeerGarage.com to ensure your trip remains green while fulfilling your surf dreams.