Is Surfing Safe for Beginners?
What You Must Know Before Paddling Out

Safety Starts with Understanding the Ocean

The ocean is beautiful but complex and understanding its dynamics is crucial for safe surfing. Before you jump into the water, it’s important to familiarize yourself with key aspects of the ocean that will help you stay safe and enjoy your time on the waves. Here are some essential things to keep in mind:

• Rip Currents: These strong channels of water flowing away from the shore can be intimidating. Learning how to spot them and knowing how to escape (by swimming parallel to the shore!) is an essential skill for any surfer.
  

• Wave Behaviour: Waves come in sets and can vary in size and power. Observing the water before entering will help you identify the best spot to surf and avoid unexpectedly big waves.
  

• Entry and Exit Points: Not every beach is suitable for beginners. Sandy beaches with gentle waves are ideal, while rocky shores or reef breaks should be avoided until you gain experience.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

The Role of Equipment in Surfing Safety

Using the right gear not only enhances your surfing experience but also keeps you safe:

• Surfboards: Beginners should use soft-top boards with plenty of volume. These boards are stable, forgiving and less likely to cause injuries if they bump into you.
  

• Leash: A leash attaches your board to your ankle, ensuring it doesn’t drift away and helps prevent accidents for others in the water.
  

• Wetsuits: Apart from keeping you warm, wetsuits provide a layer of protection against scrapes from the board or marine floor.

Why Professional Guidance Makes All the Difference

While surfing might seem challenging, it’s actually a very safe sport with the right support. This is where professional surf instructors come in:

• Ocean Knowledge: Instructors teach you how to read the waves, recognize hazards and position yourself for waves.
  

• Technique: Proper paddling, standing and balancing techniques not only make learning easier but also reduce the risk of injury.
  

• Controlled Environment: Surf schools will choose beginner-friendly beaches, ensuring a safe and supportive learning experience.
  

At Yume Surfcamps, our experienced coaches will guide you every step of the way, helping you feel confident and secure in the water. Not only do we have highly skilled instructors with years of experience teaching people of all levels, but our camp is also located at a beginner-friendly sandy beach with minimal crowds. This makes learning both fun and safe, giving you the perfect environment to enjoy your surfing experience.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Dispelling Common Surfing Myths

Many concerns expressed by first-time surfers are based on misconceptions or fears that don't match reality. Here are some examples of these myths and why you shouldn't worry:

• Sharks: The idea of sharks might stop some from stepping into the water, but rest assured, Portugal’s Atlantic coastline doesn’t see sharks in coastal areas where people surf. The conditions simply don’t attract them. This fear is far from what surfers experience daily and shouldn’t hold you back.
  

• Falling Off the Board: Everyone falls, but that’s part of the fun! Learning how to fall safely – away from your board and into the water – minimizes the risk of injury.
  

• Getting Caught in Waves: Many people worry about being stuck underwater for a long time after falling off their board (a "wipeout"). The truth? Even in the biggest waves, wipeouts usually last only a few seconds. While it may feel longer underwater, anyone on land can comfortably hold their breath for at least five seconds – and as a beginner you will not face conditions that require more than that. With the guidance of an experienced coach, you’ll stick to small, manageable waves, ensuring you don’t encounter an unsafe experience.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

So, What Progress Can Beginners Expect When They Start Surfing?

Your first week of surfing is an exciting journey where progress happens quickly with the right guidance. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

• Day 1: Learn to move safely in the water, paddle for waves and practice your position. Some might already stand on their first wave!
  

• Days 2–3: You’ll manage to stand up on your first whitewater waves, improving your paddling and timing while building confidence.
  

• Days 4–5: Start riding longer waves, practicing turns and learning to read wave patterns.
  

• Day 6 and Beyond: You’re ready for your first “green” wave – the unbroken part of a wave – a milestone moment that you’ll never forget!
  

Every surfer progresses at their own pace, but with professional coaching and the right conditions, these milestones are well within reach for anyone.

The Bottom Line: Surfing Is Safe – and Fun!

When approached with the right mindset and preparation, surfing is an incredibly safe and rewarding sport. The key is to respect the ocean, use the right equipment and seek professional guidance. At Yume Surfcamps, we’re committed to providing a supportive and secure environment where you can embrace the joy of surfing with confidence.

So, is surfing safe? Absolutely – and it’s waiting for you to dive in!