surfing
Surfing Destinations
Gloabl Surfing SPots
These spots offer challenging waves that can reach up to 30 feet, making them ideal for experienced surfers.
Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
Biarritz, France
Teahupoo, Tahiti
Byron Bay, Australia
Bukit Peninsula, Bali, Indonesia
Nihiwatu Resort, Sumbawa Island
Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii
Black's Beach, San Diego, California
Uluwatu, Indonesia
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Ericeira, Portugal
UK Surfing SPots
There are some great UK surfing spots. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, these coastal gems offer unforgettable surf experiences for all.
Thurso East, North East Scotland
Croyde, North Devon
Fistral Beach, Cornwall
Saunton Sands, Devon
Saltburn, North Yorkshire
Llangennith, Gower Peninsula, Wales
Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Kimmeridge Bay, Dorset
Porthleven Beach, Cornwall
Surfing Techniques
Competent
Frontside: Riding a wave with your front side facing the wave.
Backside: Riding a wave with your back side facing the wave.
Pumping: Generating speed by using the up and down movements of the wave.
Duck dive: Technique used to dive under an incoming wave while paddling out.
Turtle roll: Rolling your surfboard upside down to pass through a wave while paddling out.
Bottom turn: A foundational technique used to generate speed and set up for other maneuvers. It involves making a smooth turn at the bottom of the wave, utilizing the wave's energy to propel back up the face.
Top turn: Executed at the top of the wave, this maneuver involves carving a turn or performing a vertical snap, showcasing the surfer's control and agility.
Carving: Carving turns involve making smooth, sweeping turns on the face of the wave, using the rail of the surfboard to generate speed and maintain control.
Advanced
Cutback: A classic maneuver where the surfer redirects their board back towards the breaking wave, allowing them to maintain speed and continue riding the wave.
Barrel riding: Riding inside the hollow part of the wave, also known as the tube or barrel.
Floater: A trick where the surfer rides on the top of a breaking wave without going through it, using the whitewater as a ramp.
Hang ten/hang five: Placing all or some of your toes over the front edge of the surfboard while riding the wave.
Air/Aerial: Performing jumps and maneuvers in the air, above the wave.
Reverse/360: This trick involves performing a full rotation or multiple spins on the face of the wave, showcasing agility and technical skill.
Alley-oop: An aerial maneuver where the surfer launches off the wave and rotates their board 180 or 360 degrees in the air before landing back on the wave.
Surfboard types
There are several types of surfboards, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types of surfboards:
Shortboard: A small, lightweight board that is designed for high-performance surfing and maneuverability.
Gun: A long, narrow board that is designed for big wave surfing and provides more speed and control in larger waves. (often over 8 feet).
Longboard: A larger board that is designed for stability and ease of use, making it ideal for beginners and for catching small waves.
Funboard: A hybrid board that combines the features of a shortboard and a longboard, making it versatile and suitable for a range of wave conditions.
Fish: A board that is wider and shorter than a traditional shortboard, with a swallowtail design that provides more speed and maneuverability.
Mini Malibu: Also known as a mini mal, this board is a smaller version of the classic longboard. It provides stability, easy paddling, and versatility in a more compact size, making it a popular choice for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Retro Fish: Inspired by the fish design, it typically features a wider, stubbier shape with twin fins, providing speed and maneuverability in smaller waves.
Surf Board Prices
The average prices, highest prices, and lowest prices for the surfboard types you mentioned can vary depending on factors such as brand, materials used, condition (new or used), and geographic location. Trends as of my last knowledge update in September 2021.
Shortboard:
Average Price: $500 - $1,200
Highest Price: $2,500+
Lowest Price: $300 - $500
Longboard:
Average Price: $500 - $1,000
Highest Price: $2,000+
Lowest Price: $200 - $400
Funboard:
Average Price: $400 - $800
Highest Price: $1,500+
Lowest Price: $200 - $300
Fish:
Average Price: $400 - $800
Highest Price: $1,200+
Lowest Price: $200 - $300
Gun:
Average Price: $700 - $1,500
Highest Price: $3,000+
Lowest Price: $400 - $600
Retro Fish:
Average Price: $400 - $800
Highest Price: $1,000+
Lowest Price: $200 - $400
Surfing History
Origins. Surfing has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Polynesia, where riding waves was an integral part of the local culture. The early Polynesians (as early as 2000 BCE) used wooden boards, often carved from koa or wiliwili trees, to navigate the powerful Pacific waves. Surfing held deep cultural significance, with legends and rituals associated with the sport. Surfing has a captivating history that spans centuries.
1950s. The 1950s and 1960s marked a pivotal period in surfing history. The introduction of foam and fiberglass boards revolutionized the sport, making boards lighter and more maneuverable. This sparked a surfboard design revolution, with shapers like Bob Simmons and Hobie Alter pushing boundaries. The 1960s also witnessed the rise of surf culture, epitomized by the iconic Beach Boys songs and the emergence of surf-inspired fashion.
20th Century. In the early 20th century, surfing experienced a revival with the efforts of Hawaiian legends like Duke Kahanamoku. Duke popularized the sport in the early 1900s, showcasing his skills to the world and spreading the stoke of surfing. This led to the growth of surfing in places like California, with the first mainland surf club established in 1912. The introduction of lighter, more maneuverable boards made of fiberglass revolutionized the sport and allowed for greater performance and progression.
21st Century. In recent years, surfing has reached new heights. The inclusion of surfing as an Olympic sport made its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, bringing the sport to a global stage. The professional surfing circuit, led by organizations like the World Surf League, hosts competitive events around the world. Surfing technology continues to advance, with innovative board materials and wave pools pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the sport.
Surfing Legends
Duke Kahanamoku (1890-1968).
Known as the "Father of Modern Surfing," Duke was an Olympic swimmer from Hawaii who introduced surfing to the world. His skill, charm, and ambassadorship helped popularize the sport beyond the Hawaiian islands. Duke's influence in the early 20th century laid the foundation for surfing's global growth.
Tom Blake (1902-1994).
Tom Blake was a pioneer in surfboard design and contributed significantly to the sport's development. He experimented with hollow wooden surfboards and invented the first surfboard fin, which improved control and maneuverability. Blake's innovations revolutionized surfboard design, making boards lighter and more responsive.
Greg Noll (1937-2021).
Greg Noll, also known as "Da Bull," was a legendary big wave surfer who pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible in the sport. In the 1960s, he famously rode massive waves at Hawaii's Waimea Bay and other treacherous breaks. Noll's fearless approach to big wave surfing inspired generations of surfers and elevated the sport to new heights.
Margo Oberg (1953-).
Margo Oberg is a trailblazing figure in women's professional surfing. As a three-time world champion in the 1970s, she paved the way for women in a male-dominated sport. Oberg's achievements and influence helped break down barriers and establish women's surfing as a respected discipline. Oberg secured an impressive three world championship titles in women's professional surfing. She clinched the world title in 1977, 1978, and 1980.
Kelly Slater (born 1972).
Kelly Slater is widely regarded as one of the greatest surfers of all time. With an unprecedented 11 World Surf League titles, he dominated competitive surfing for over two decades. Slater's progressive approach to wave riding, combined with his competitive prowess, has solidified his status as a surfing icon and an inspiration to many.
Surfing Comptitions
Welcome to our Surfing Competitions section, where the thrill of the waves meets the exhilaration of competition! If you're an avid surfer looking to showcase your skills and test your mettle against other wave riders, you've come to the right place. Here we list a range of surfing competitions in the UK and around the world that cater to surfers of all levels, from amateurs to seasoned pros. Whether you're seeking the rush of big wave challenges, the precision of aerial maneuvers, or the artistry of stylish turns, these competitions provide the perfect platform to showcase your talent.
UK Surfing Competitions
Boardmasters
When: 9 -13 August.
Where: Newquay, Cornwall
Details: During Boardmasters Festival this surfing competition is pro only. Three events take place, Boardmasters Long Board Pro, Animal Pro, Boardmasters Junior Open.
Caravan and Motorhome Club English National Surfing Championships
When: The 2023 event took place on April 15-16, with backup dates on April 29-30
Where: Watergate Bay Cornwall
Details: An annual event, with multiple divisions, including men's and women's shortboard open titles.
Night Surf at Fistral Beach
When: Usually held in May or June
Where: Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall
Details: Night Surf is a unique event that features floodlit surfing competitions held in the evening, showcasing surfers under artificial lighting.
Surf Snowdonia Pro Surf Challenge
When: Held annually, usually in September
Where: Surf Snowdonia, Dolgarrog, North Wales
Details: This event takes advantage of the artificial wave pool at Surf Snowdonia. There are three classes in the event: U18, Women’s and Open. The knock-out format competition takes place between 8am and 5.30pm.
Korev Lager English Interclub Surfing Championships
When: Usually a weekend during September
Where: Fistral Beach
Details: The event is supported by Surfing England. It includes events for surfers of all ages, abilities, disciplines, and genders.
Entry: £15 per person for the junior division and £20 per person for the women's and open divisions. All entries must be submitted via a single surf club contact, and the event entry form must be completed and emailed to Surfing England.
The Wave Bristol Surf Challenge
When: Held annually, usually in September
Where: The Wave Bristol, Bristol, England
Details: The Wave Bristol Surf Challenge is a competition held at the artificial wave pool at The Wave Bristol. It features various divisions and attracts both amateur and professional surfers.
UK Surfing Competition organisations:
We recommend checking the websites and social media platforms of these organizations, for more information on specific events and their dates.
UK Pro Surf Tour: This is a series of events held throughout the year at various locations in the UK, featuring both amateur and professional divisions.
British Schools Surf Association (BSSA) Competitions: BSSA organizes surfing competitions specifically for schools and youth surfers in the UK.
English Surfing Federation (ESF) Events: ESF holds various surfing events and competitions for surfers of all levels, including amateurs, across different locations in England.
Scottish Surfing Federation (SSF) Competitions: SSF hosts surfing competitions in Scotland, including amateur divisions for different age groups.
Welsh Surfing Federation (WSF) Events: WSF organizes surfing competitions and events in Wales, providing opportunities for both amateur and professional surfers.
Global Surf Competitions
Tudor Nazaré Tow Surfing Challenge
When: The exact date of the Tudor Nazaré Tow Surfing Challenge can vary each year as it depends on favorable swell conditions. The event is typically scheduled during the big wave surfing season, which runs from October to March
Where: The event takes place at Praia do Norte in Nazaré, a renowned surf spot known for its massive waves. Nazaré is a coastal town located in the central region of Portugal.
Details: The Tudor Nazaré Tow Surfing Challenge focuses on tow-in surfing, a technique where surfers are towed into massive waves by personal watercraft (jet skis) to catch and ride them.
World Surf League Qualifying Series
When: The WSL Qualifying Series runs throughout the year, starting in January and typically concluding in December. The schedule includes various events held at different locations around the world.
Where: The competitions take place at various surf breaks around the globe, including beach breaks, point breaks, and reef breaks. The locations vary each year, with events held in different countries across different continents.
Details: The WSL Qualifying Series provides an opportunity for professional surfers to accumulate points by competing in a series of events. Surfers earn points based on their performance and rankings in each competition. The higher their rankings, the more points they accumulate, which contributes to their overall QS ranking.
International Surfing Association World Surfing Games
When: The ISA World Surfing Games is held annually, with the exact dates varying from year to year. The event typically takes place over a span of several days.
Where: The competition is hosted at different locations around the world, with the venue changing each year. The ISA World Surfing Games have been held in various countries, showcasing different surf destinations and cultures.
Details: The ISA World Surfing Games is an opportunity for national surfing teams to compete on a global stage. Surfers from different countries come together to represent their nations and compete for individual and team titles.
Vans Triple Crown of Surfing
When: The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing typically runs during the winter months in Hawaii, from November to December. The exact dates of the event can vary each year, as they depend on favorable wave conditions.
Where: The competition takes place at three different surf breaks on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. The three venues are Haleiwa Ali'i Beach Park, Sunset Beach, and Pipeline.
Details: The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing is composed of three individual World Surf League (WSL) events: the Hawaiian Pro at Haleiwa, the Vans World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach, and the Billabong Pipe Masters at Pipeline. Each event carries significant weight and offers valuable points toward the WSL Championship Tour rankings.
Eastern Surfing Association Mid-Atlantic Regional Surfing Championship.
When: The ESA Mid-Atlantic Regional Surfing Championship typically takes place during a specific time period each year, but the exact dates can vary. The event is usually held over a weekend, spanning multiple days.
Where: The competition is hosted at various surf breaks along the Mid-Atlantic coastline. The exact location may vary each year, depending on wave conditions and other factors. Surf spots in states such as Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey have hosted the event in the past.
Details: The ESA Mid-Atlantic Regional Surfing Championship is a regional competition organized by the Eastern Surfing Association. It brings together surfers from the Mid-Atlantic region to compete in various divisions and age categories.
Quiksilver Pro
When: The Quiksilver Pro is typically held during the European leg of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour. The exact dates can vary each year, as they depend on favorable wave conditions and the overall schedule of the WSL.
Where: The Quiksilver Pro takes place in France, specifically along the southwestern coast. The event is held at different surf breaks in the region, including well-known spots like Hossegor, Seignosse, and Capbreton.
Details: The Quiksilver Pro is part of the elite Championship Tour (CT) organized by the World Surf League. It features the world's top-ranked male professional surfers competing against each other in high-performance waves.
Noosa Festival of Surfing
When: The exact dates of the Noosa Festival of Surfing can vary each year. The event typically takes place over several days and is usually held during the Australian autumn season, which is around March or April.
Where: The festival is hosted in Noosa, a coastal town located on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia. Noosa is known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular surf destination.
Details: The Noosa Festival of Surfing celebrates the sport of surfing and brings together surfers of all ages and skill levels. The event features various divisions and categories, including longboarding, shortboarding, tandem surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.