Planning a Surf Session

Information required for perfect planning of a Surf Session

Just show up at the beach and paddle out is one way of doing it. Planning the ideal time and location to surf requires a lot of information and knowledge. This information is important for choosing the correct surfboard size and type. The best way of determining how big the surf will be is by reading a swell forecast. You will want to use the information from the swell forecast and tide chart to decide on which Surf Spot in your area would be best and the best times to surf.

Other factors to be considered in the modern age are crowds. Surfing at first light or at sunset are typically the quietest times of day and for this you will need information on sunrise and sunset.

Planning surf sessions for beginner surfers

Beginner surfers will invariably be wanting small waves and safe conditions. The biggest risks for beginner surfers are strong currents and hazards getting into and out of the water. Strong currents are typically caused by big surf so it is important to know how to read a swell forecast. Tides can also be a big factor in currents and access to the surf.

Planning surf sessions for intermediate surfers

Crowds and wave quality are much more of an issue for intermediate surfers than beginners. To plan a surf session you will want to have knowledge of the surf breaks in the area and the best tides to surf them. You will also need to understand wave period and how this affects the power and nature of the wave.

Planning surf sessions for advanced surfers

Advanced surfers are able to surf a wider range of conditions than intermediate surfers, but the same factors need to be taken into account when planning a surf session. Typically advanced surfers would be looking for bigger and more powerful waves than intermediate surfers. To get the very best surfing conditions you need to have an excellent knowledge of wave period, surf forecasting and the surf spots in your area and also a wider area if you are prepared to travel to score the very best waves. General surf guides and general information are helpful for planning which surf spot you will surf, but unless you have surfed the spot many times, it is best to go well prepared and first read an Ultimate Surf Guide to the chosen spot.

Selection of surfing equipment and the right surf spot is even more important for beginners than intermediates, which is why at Padang Padang Surf Camp we ensure we have the right board size and type for everyone.

Conclusion

Unless you know the surf spot very well we would generally recommend beginner and intermediate surfers start their surfing experience with a local surf school who will know the safest and best times for you to surf and will also have a range of surfboards.

For advanced surfers who do not need to be taught surfing but want to know about the local surf spots and the line-up, we offer surf guiding.