Choosing the right waves is key to progressing in surfing. Each experience level has different needs, and learning how to read the sea will help you enjoy it more and improve your technique. In this blog, we explain what types of waves are most suitable for each level and how to recognize them.
Waves for beginners
If you’re just starting out in surfing, you need soft waves that are easy to paddle. Ideally, you should look for:
- Small waves: Between 0.5 and 1 meter in height.
- Sandy bottom waves: Safer in case of falls.
- Gradual breaking waves: That form slowly, giving you time to stand up.
- Stable and predictable peaks: Without strong currents or complicated sections.
How to recognize them?
Look for beaches with sandy bottoms and gentle foam. Waves that break evenly and without much force are perfect for learning.
Waves for intermediate level
If you already have experience and control the take-off and movement on the board, it’s time to look for waves that allow for more maneuvering. You should consider:
- Medium-sized waves: Between 1 and 1.5 meters.
- Waves with a wall: That allow you to perform basic turns.
- Varied tides and conditions: To get used to different types of breaks.
How to recognize them?
Look for waves that form a clean wall and don’t close abruptly. Breaks at point breaks or reef breaks with not too aggressive bottoms can be a good option to improve your surfing.
Waves for advanced surfers
If you already master maneuvers like turns, cutbacks, and floaters, you can venture into more challenging conditions:
- Larger waves: From 1.5 meters upwards.
- Fast and hollow breaks: That require speed and technique.
- More challenging conditions: With currents and different types of breaks.
How to recognize them?
The most powerful waves tend to form on reefs and point breaks with rock or coral bottoms. It’s important to carefully evaluate the area and know the risks before entering.
A few tips
- Watch the sea before entering: Analyze how the waves break and which areas are more suitable for your level.
- Check wave and tide reports: Tools like Windguru, Magicseaweed, or Surforecast can help you plan your sessions.
- Ask local surfers: They know the characteristics of each spot well.
- Be aware of your limits: Don’t expose yourself to conditions that exceed your level to avoid unnecessary risks.
Understanding the type of wave that best suits your level will help you improve faster and enjoy surfing more. See you in the water!
