While surfing seems like a sport that has been seen more often in movies than at the beach, in reality, it is closer to us than we think. With an expansive coastline like ours, surfing in India is something that is accessible to anyone interested in the sport.

The most common spots for surfing in India include Goa, Karnataka, and Kerala. 

The months from November to March seem ideal for most surfers. More experienced surfers wade the waters even in the pre and post monsoon periods, but the sea is rough at the time, and it is relatively riskier.

If you are someone who is looking at just entering the sport, there are a few things to keep in mind.

You Have To Know How To Swim

We had to mention the obvious ;) If you don’t know how to swim, and are still very keen on learning the sport, then learn how to swim first, because there are no two ways to do this. 

You cannot be scared of waves, water, and swimming, if you want to learn how to surf.

Do Your Research

Surfing is a relatively new branch of sports in India and there are no standard qualifications or guidelines while choosing a surfing school or instructor. 

That said, one ground rule we strongly recommend is checking that the instructor has had some training in being a surfing trainer and most definitely has done a course on lifeguarding and surf-rescue. You want to leave your life in safe hands.

Trust The Process.

Surfing sure looks both easy, and fun, however, it takes time to learn and get out in the water. It is each one for himself with the waves. 

Trust the process, keep practicing, and soon enough it will be both easy, and fun.

Stay Light!

Going surfing means staying as light as you can. You don’t need to pack up a million things in your bag. 

Live the moment in its entirety without worrying about losing your stuff on the beach! Essentially all you need is an outfit appropriate for water, that fits snugly and comfortably to your body; a towel to wipe up once you’re done; and a bag to carry them both in. 

Almost everything else like your phone, watch, jewelry, glasses, cameras, and more, can be left behind. 

There will come a time to pull out that GoPro and fix it to your board, but if you are a beginner, it is not that time just yet.

Time To Board?

As a beginner, it does not make sense investing in a surfing board right away. You can get rental boards to experiment and learn with, and then move on to taking a more informed decision on which board to buy. 

A quick tip – try buying a longer, more massy board at the beginning and then transitioning to the lighter ones as you proceed. Or like we said already, rent out the beginner’s board and buy a better one to keep.

With several regulations getting in place, you can rest assured that surfing is, and will be, the next big thing when it comes to water sports in India. 

Several surfing schools and clubs in Kerala, Mangalore, Goa, Pondicherry and Mahabalipuram are already getting famous for their services. 

So if you’ve always dreamt of being up on a chunk of wood, the salty wind in your hair and waves at your feet, it is time to let the sexy beast out, and make this dream come true!