Surfing isn’t just about standing up on a board. It’s about feeling the ocean, reading the waves, and understanding the culture. At Stylez Surf School, we see it all—from total first-timers to surfers who can’t imagine life without the ocean.
So, what actually makes a real surfer? Is it years of experience? The size of the waves you ride? Or is it something else entirely? Let’s break it down.
1. Respect the Ocean, Respect the Locals
Every surf break has its own rhythm, its own energy. If you want to really connect with surfing, you need to respect the ocean and the people who call it home.
Know the Lineup Rules – Don’t drop in on someone’s wave. If someone’s already riding, let them go.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings – Keep control of your board and know where you are in the lineup.
Respect the Beach – No rubbish, no leaving wax scraps, no damaging the dunes. Keep it clean.
Want to know what separates a tourist with a board from a real surfer? It’s not skill—it’s respect.
2. You’re Hooked When Surfing Becomes a Habit
At first, surfing might be something you try for fun—but at some point, it becomes part of your routine. That’s when you know you’re in it for real.
You start checking the forecast like it’s the news.
You’ll happily wake up at sunrise for glassy conditions.
Your car permanently smells like salt, wax, and damp towels.
If you’re rearranging your day around the tide times, congrats—you’re officially hooked.
3. You Know That Not Every Session is About Performance
A lot of people think surfing is all about chasing bigger waves or riding perfectly—but real surfers know it’s not always like that. Some days, the waves are small, the wind’s onshore, or you just don’t feel it. And that’s okay.
Surfing is about being in the water. Some days, it’s about catching one good wave. Other days, it’s just about paddling out and clearing your head.
That’s why we love it—it’s not just a sport, it’s a way of life.
4. You Start to Read the Ocean Without Thinking
When you first start, everything feels chaotic—waves coming at you, paddling in all directions, no idea where to sit. But after a while, things change.
You start to see patterns—where the waves are breaking, where the rips are pulling.
You instinctively know when to start paddling—you don’t even have to think about it.
You can feel a wave’s energy before it even reaches you.
Once you get to this stage, you’re not just riding waves—you’re part of the ocean.
5. You’re Stoked for Other People’s Waves Too
The best surfers aren’t just about their own rides—they celebrate everyone’s stoke. Whether it’s a grom standing up for the first time or a mate getting their best wave of the season, a true surfer is just as hyped for someone else’s win as their own.
Surfing isn’t about ego. It’s about sharing the experience.
So, Are You a Surfer Yet?
If you’re reading this and nodding along, chances are, you’re already on your way. If you’re just starting, don’t stress—surfing isn’t about how good you are, it’s about how much you love being out there.
Whether it’s your first time standing up or you’re working on perfecting your bottom turn, we’re here to help. Book a session with Stylez Surf School and keep the progression going.
See you in the water.
