Get Ready Physically & Mentally
- Practice pop-ups at home using a towel
- Build strength with push-ups and mountain climbers
- The ocean is not your friend or your enemy – it demands respect
- Learn how to read the ocean
Start by Watching
- Spend time on the beach watching waves and other surfers
- Don’t rush into the water – observe first
- Respect the people around you in the lineup
- Visualize yourself in the right spot to catch a wave
Pick the Right Board
- Choose the right shape and size for your level
- Fun boards work well for beginners
- A 9-foot foam board is ideal if you’re just getting started
- Bigger boards offer more stability and make it easier to catch waves
BEST LOCAL SURF SPOTS
- Naval Jetty
- Indian River Inlet – North Side
- Indian River Inlet – South Side (can be good depending on wind and swell)
- Rehoboth Beach (can break near lifeguard stands, but often too close to the beach)
- Dewey Beach (sometimes surfable, but usually shallow)
- Naval Jetty and IRI North Side are the most consistent spots
Special thanks to Angelica Clemmer for sharing her local insight and surf wisdom!