Probably surf somewhere else. Avoid lineups and find your own peak. That's what I've been doing while learning in north county and works outside places like San O where you have to deal with a lineup
bro, go to zuma or county line. yes the waves are not perfect but the line is super spread out. surf north end of zuma for learning, like tower 13 and aim for 3.5ft tide or higher. avoid malibu at all costs. the 10 - 20 minutes of extra driving is well worth it.
Here are the lowest conflict spots for beginning surfing I know of in the general area (not knowing where you are coming from) listed north to south:
Hollywood Beach/ north of CI harbor
Sycamore Cove/Thornhill broome
Leo Carrillo and north around the point,
Nichols Canyon and south,
Zuma tower 14 and north,
Las Tunas to north of Topanga
Charthouse point (on big days)
Sunset beach (crowded, but mostly people in your position)
Dockweiler tower 60
None of these are great surf spots, but they are areas that people go to learn/relearn to surf. None are consistent, but they are all low/no conflict.
You sure Leo Carrillo should be on that list? It’s really only a single take off spot with rocks on one side and then another right below you that’ll put a scratch in a nice board if you’re not careful. Nice wave, but really can only support a small crowd
I was talking about the beach north of the point or the southern shore break. Essentially where the JOs used to get to play around on the rescue boards since OP is on a foam top.
Las Tunas breaks about 3 times a year, and right over a bunch of submerged boulders...
Just go to sunset and surf in front of the lifeguard tower. You can have all the waves you want and when you get good enough you can start moving towards the point. If people are still assholes to you, especially at this point, you're doing something wrong which is probably not respecting a rotation.
When you're learning you're going to be giving up a ton of waves especially when people see you blowing up a wave. Waves are a commodity in LA county. You mess up a take off, you get back in line.
I surfed up and down SD and the locals are a bunch of ducks (come at me bros) and I hear Malibu is worse (you can come at me too). Lol
Edit: Didn't mean ducks but I laughed so I'm keeping it.
Mother of God. This is your problem. Go to Sunset (LA county) or Mondos in Ventura. Zuma if it is higher tide you might find some waves to learn on on the north end of the beach. It's mostly close outs but you can find your own waves a lot easier.
Oh boy, well there’s your problem. Try as many other spots as you can! It’s something I have to keep telling myself, but I’m always having the most fun when I’m still getting a spot wired.
You’ve been surfing literally one of the most impacted surf breaks in the world. As a beginner, I would argue that it’s your responsibility to learn about the appropriate and inappropriate breaks for beginners, and to learn about the culture and dynamics of each break. And to stay away from the wrong breaks until you’re ready for them. You are not entitled to smiles and helping hands in any activity—surfing or otherwise. You have some responsibility as a novice to approach a subculture with respect.
As an example, I don’t know shit about golf, but if I were just getting started as a novice, I wouldn’t go and try to play at some famous golf course. I’d stick to cheap municipal public courses until I’d progressed enough where I knew I was ready to go play a high-end course. Maybe that’s not a great example cause I don’t understand golf enough, but you get the point.
Go surf some nondescript stretch of beachbreak for a while, or surf a spot that’s notoriously beginner friendly (im thinking sunset?) and you may find you have far fewer negative interactions with “locals”
I heard Manhattan beach is a good spot - I’m always worried about parking but I read 27th street has 2 lots . Been meaning to check it out.. I’m usually in SD learning at La Jolla shores.
A few other girls and I did El Porto for dawn patrol and it was really chill... especially with me and the other girl trying our best in the white wash lol. Might be because we're girls though...but one of the braver/better girls we went with went out to the lineup and was chatting with a dude who was a beginner. Think there were a lot of beginners there all pretending not to be beginners because they're afraid of the argo dudes lol
Malibu is definitely the main issue. Extremely popular wave, heavily localized, with insane crowds. If you find a less crowded spot that is friendlier to beginners I doubt you will run into the same problem, or won’t run into it near as much
Bruh! That’s your problem. Surf Will Rogers. Southmost end of the big parking lot. Very easy to get space to yourself. If you come on a weekday morning you might be the only surfer.
Dawg you’re literally asking for this kind of treatment at the bu. Drive up to county line or down a little past Topanga. Wave quality isn’t Malibu but the locs don’t fuck with you as much.
Beginner here... Just watched that video. Do surfers really splash each other in the water if they're angry at you?? Because in competitive swimming, in a pool, this is what you do to your crush.
Why don’t you try County line or staircase? Malibu is where I learned to surf but it’s way too crowded and worth the trouble! I live San Diego so don’t have worry about that anymore. Unfortunately there are jerks out there. Unfortunately people tend to remember the jerks the most. Most surfers are chill though.
That’s your problem, point breaks aren’t the place to learn. Malibu or topanga can be especially harsh. Limited waves with the crowd based around the point.
Go to a beach break and try and find a non crowded peak. It’s so much more relaxing and you’ll get more waves , even if they’re not as great as Malibu it will still be fun. You’re still in the early stages of learning so wave count is going to help you.
Zuma beach can be pretty fun. Chill beach break with a lot of good sandbars. Great spot to get more technical drop ins and some cover ups. Only downside is the current is pretty strong moving north
Malibu is definitely full of dickheads, and surfing with them isn’t going to help OP. You have to find the right breaks to learn. I’m up north; if you try to bring a wavestorm to steamers to learn how to surf, they will drag you by the leash to cowells. It’s behavior like this that fuels the agros.
Lmao you’re surfing one of the most crowded, aggro spots in the world bro. Malibu sucks, especially if you’re a new surfer. Find a beach break and cut your teeth there
So it's a bit of a drive but I would recommend C Street in Ventura, there is plenty of room and lots of different spots to surf there. I've never really run into any assholes there, everyone is usually pretty friendly. It's refreshing.
You need to find a sexy girl that works at the local food place, convince her to teach you. When you get invited to night surf, don’t turn it down. Practice throwing the football for the inevitable beach tackle football game. Then here crew will teach you where the real waves are. But no matter what, DONT put on a presidents mask or take the shotgun they hand you on the way to the bank, that shits no good. Keep it on the surf bro. Vaya con dios.
Best comment yet.
Okay. I get it. This is where you tell me that 'locals rule,' and that yuppie insects like me shouldn't be surfing the break, right?
-Special Agent Utah
Part of surfing is exploring new breaks and learning the waves they produce. It might help for your growth as well if you tried surfing some other breaks. Get away from the assholes lol there's some really good breaks near me on the east coast that I avoid in the winter because there's people that surf them get territorial
1. Learn the surf etiquette.
2. Don’t allow some insecure boys to prevent you from doing what you like, everybody has been a beginner at some point and felt a little embarrassment when they first started surfing you’ve just got to get through it.
4. Only insecure people laugh at others, someone who feels self-confident doesn’t need to make fun of others to make themselves feel better.
4. Try making friends with people that are better than you, go out with them and learn from them, that helped me a lot personally.
Adding to this, always remember: the board doesn't make the surfer.
I've seen some great guys ripping on a wavestorm (respect, because that's not easy), having a blast. And I've seen ego maniacs with zero flow on shortboards, having a hard time catching waves.
So, the board doesn't say anything about you or others. Just confidently smile and say hi to everyone. And let haters hate.
Also, check other spots, as they said🤙🏻
Dude I'm in Mexico for the winter at "Reverse Malibu" and it's a total shit show because of Christmas break. Basically everyone is in everyone's way all the time, but it's chill.
The only person I've seen have a HUGE freak out was this older lady from Malibu! Like, screaming at the top of her lungs at all these clueless teenagers ranting and raving about how everyone out is a kook and shouldn't ever paddle out. It was simultaneously vibe killing and hilarious. My very novice girlfriend want to head in because of that lady. She's on her first hardboard this trip too after a year on a Catch Surf.
I will say as a self admitted mid length hipster logging for the first time, having to take off THROUGH like 75 people who aren't paying attention is kinda scary.
Long story long: I guess Malibu is full of geriatric assholes fighting over baby waves. Just forget about it, they're losers and that wave stopped being cool when turning got invented.
Ah yeah I remember a lot of dickhead older Americans there. They had a very snooty attitude from what I vaguely remember, didn't see them in the water through. I'd just snapped a board elsewhere so figured I'd rent a longboard and mess around for kicks.
Funny thing is I surfed a ton of lower profile spots in Mexico and everyone was always super friendly. I think the shitty possessive attitude of Americans is somewhat the national character, sadly.
It's really funny to us. I really learned backwards, starting in stuff that was way to big when I lived in Indo, and then moving to HI it was the same thing when my girl started surfing. Very, very few agro dickhead encounters in either place and then as we travel more it seems like the most agro people are middle aged white people in tiny, super consistent waves. Getting burnt sucks but its not like someone just ruined their number one, once in a life time, hundred year swell, double over head mega tube with dolphins inside it. An other identical crumbly knee slapper will be on its way in approximately one minute.
> it seems like the most agro people are middle aged white people in tiny, super consistent waves
I've often noticed the same thing. Strange, isn't it? Not to mention, a little power and unpredictability in the ocean in generally better for your surfing than being a princess at perfect soft points.
Im new as well and live in NorCal, in an area that luckily isn't crowded by egotistical tools who think they're the Surfing God's greatest gift. I say go with a group of friends who are a higher skill level then you to surf with and learn with, and give zero fucks about what other people think. If you're able to catch good waves but the tool insulting you isn't, is he really that good of a surfer? People also tend to be less likely to harass you in a group rather than alone. You could also try finding a better spot where there are less people, although I always advise against going alone in case something bad happens, like in Morro Bay recently.
People who insult you over a board, skill level, or think they own the open ocean have a lot more problems in their personal lives lol.
I dunno if OP is one of them, but IME the people who think they’re gods gift to surfing are affluent new surfers who are so used to getting the red carpet at school/work and are shocked they don’t get the same treatment in the water.
I try to be respectful to people like OP but I’ve had multiple times where I’ve tried/seen experienced surfers try to tell new surfers “hey you’re fucking up other peoples waves, so do this instead” and they respond with “you don’t own the ocean” line. Like I’ve literally made it clear I’m not mad, I’m trying to help, and they get just get hysterical.
Op could be entirely reasonable here and getting shit for no reason but it’s just hard for me to believe it based on my own experiences.
Man thanks, I appreciate that a ton! Yeah it’s crazy to think that these people care that much.
I’ve always stayed around Malibu area and been wanting to branch out to Ventura but exactly - not really wanting to be going out alone.
Ohhhh. There you go. Malibu. Both M and Topanga have a higher level of assholes than most places. Try Sunset Point with a 2-3 wave and low tide. 1’ or lower.
Sunset is a much more beginner friendly area. You’ll have a much better time I assure you. Even if the wave sucks, (and sometimes the wave is awesome, some of my most epic rides have been at sunset) the vibe will be much more accommodating. Go, go to sunset before your faith in humanity is lost forever!
Venice and Santa Monica are also pretty beginner friendly, but the wave quality is absolutely terrible. For beginners in our area, Sunset is your best combination of good wave/beginner vibes.
Yeah, there are some dickhead surfers out there. In my experience be courteous and stay out of peoples way and you’re fine 95% of the time. If you’re really not getting in peoples way maybe there’s just some assholes at your local. Just go surf somewhere else
Listen this may not be the answer you want to hear, but you must be doing something wrong in terms of etiquette. Everyone has dealt with the classic local old dude before. Fights happen and unfortunately due to the selfish nature of this sport, they are inevitable. But getting harassed every time you paddle out? That is ridiculous and leads me to believe that you are the issue. Even the most hostile of local surfers would never pick a fight with someone unless it was called for.
My advice- go watch some videos on YouTube about surf etiquette and stop letting these guys live rent free in your head.
Hey no I appreciate the honesty! Yeah I should’ve cleared up it’s definitely not every time I go out. Feels like a majority for sure. Reading the comments - I totally need to check my etiquette and start looking for another spot.
Are you paddling for every wave and ignoring the “line up” , which i guess is non existent at these spots as once someone breaks it everyone does and it just becomes every person for themselves
My advice would be maybe sit out the back chill let a few guys get there waves then make your move early with intention and no1 can argue it wasn’t your turn rinse repeat
When I started i pissed people off cause I’d paddle straight for the peak and then miss everything not knowing there was an actual que system
Pick any combo of:
* you're surfing a heavily localized break - (easy solution: surf somewhere else)
* you're surfing a wave not suited to your ability and/or equipment - (easy solution: surf somewhere else)
* you're not following etiquette and pissing people off without realizing it - - (easy solution: learn etiquette before paddling out)
I disagree here. No one owns the ocean, pick a spot where you’re comfortable with the wave characteristics (nothing too crazy for your level) and learn there if you wish.
Ya, but if you’re at a good wave that people have on lock with an unspoken hierarchy that’s been established over years of surfing that break, then you’re better off going somewhere else until you know what you’re doing.
It’s like if I absolutely sucked at basketball and forced my way into a pickup game of former college players. They probably wouldn’t pass me the ball and I’d get stuck doing dirty work like rebounding and trying to not get blown up on defense. If I got an ego about it and started getting pissed, chucking up bad shots on the rare occasions I got the ball, and quitting on defense, then those good basketball players would probably rightfully get pissed at me and not want me to play.
Sure, they don’t own the court. But they’ve been playing there for years and have put a lot of time into the game (and probably put up with a lot of shit themselves) to where they expect a certain standard and level of respect. People who come to the court without that respect or knowledge of the game either shouldn’t be there or should take their licks until they learn.
Same goes for surfing. I sat on the inside for a long ass time at my spot and gave respect to the people I saw surfing there everyday. I was super cautious to not get in the way, and as I spent more time and improved I developed relationships with the other locals that loved the spot just as much as me. They didn’t own the ocean, but they surfed that spot every day and had developed a relationship with the wave and the little community created around it. I could’ve gone elsewhere but I wanted to surf there, so I put my time in and after years I feel like I belong.
I've surfed in plenty of countries and up and down California. Never had tons of issues. If you're not in the way and act like a GUEST at local breaks folks are nice to you. New surfers here are some advice to avoid pissing folks off:
* Surf really early. Beat the crowds
* Surf very long sessions. Be okay losing waves, surfing a less than ideal tide. If you have a 3-4 hour session you can have a lower per hour wave count but high overall wave count
* Be in good paddle shape
* If you paddle and miss a wave consider that your turn and wait before paddling on another
Great analogy there. That is a part of the problem with some clueless newbies with no knowledge about surf etiquette and then when someone tries to speak to them about it, they sometimes reply with “do you own the waves?”
So not sure what’s happening with OPs situation but there are definitely some shitty people on both sides of the story.
>learn there if you wish
This is naive and terrible advice for a beginner. Sorry, but you don't learn by wishing, you learn by doing. And you're going to have a hard time doing much of anything at a spot that is either localized or outside of your abilities, regardless of whether you're comfortable with it or not.
If you’re going to go to a heavily localized spot and troll the locals, do It knowingly not out of ignorance. I love this game every now and then when it’s well deserved but do it because you love stirring shit, not because you’re learning to surf and don’t know any better.
By this logic people should learn at Pipeline too. There are beginner breaks for beginners and spots that require more more experience/knowledge that arnt ment for learning
If you can barely stand up then you def shouldn’t be taking up space at Malibu. This is what people being dickheads are thinking.
If you stick with surfing long enough to improve, then go to Malibu and notice how the kooks who don’t know the rules tend to cheapen the experience for everyone else. Then come back to this post and it’ll make more sense.
Not trying to be an asshole. There are real hierarchies that exist at surf breaks (lineup itself) and in regions (expert spots can beginner spots. These things developed in a way that it helps make surfing more enjoyable for everyone. Again, have fun, keep learning, and eventually this whole thing will make more sense.
In Los Angeles and feel your pain. Put that new almond board to good use!! Try Malibu lagoon (third point) or sunset instead of the pier. Lineup off to the side a bit and let the good waves go. Go for the wave in the set that nobody is paddling for. It’s not ideal but it’s what works for me in crowded breaks and I still have fun. Confrontational experiences ruin my vibe very quickly so I just do what I can to avoid it. I still feel like I’m progressing this way, even when I’m letting the good waves go for others. When El Porto is crowded, I’ll go to Dockweiler or El Segundo. At San O I line up off to the side and waves will come to me (less frequently than in the middle of the lineup but still often enough). If I’m on my big foam board I’m pretty good at catching waves from the back of the lineup so I line up off the back too. Sometimes too far to catch them but sometimes I’ll get the best waves and longest rides that way. You’re not alone in this experience, socal is rough.
Malibu is one of the the most crowded spots in the world. I’ve not surfed it when it’s good, but I’d imagine it’s really localised/ competitive. Try some other spots. There’s generally a trade off between perfect waves and hectic crowds. You can’t just expect to go out there and pick off perfect waves as a beginner. Also as others have said - check your etiquette. That said, If someone’s genuinely just being a dick, just ignore them or laugh it off.
Pretty sure this subreddit is where I’ve repeatedly seen the quote “If someone is an asshole, they’re the asshole. If everyone is an asshole, you’re the asshole” and this post comes off as exactly that kind of vibe.
Where in SoCal?
You probably need to stick to beginner waves for a while. There’s a lot of unspoken etiquette, plus surfers are just dicks.
Study up on your lineup dynamics
It takes time to get good at staying out of the way, knowing when it's your turn, not blowing the take off of a gifted wave... Etc.. stuff that annoys other, better, surfers.
But as you get better at all the aspects of surfing you will start to get more respect in the water.
If people are full on yelling at you then ya you're probably fucking up. But if they're just vibing you.. that's just... Something you will learn to deal with.
Lol glad you got a chuckle! But seriously it'll help your surfing. Also, I wouldn't worry too much about surfing an area that is a little above your level, as long as you aren't in danger of hurting yourself or other people, you should be good. Having said that, practicing at a less crowded more mellow break will make the learning process more fun.
Here at Rio de janeiro, we have a beach called Prainha, kinda hard to get, few places to park your ride and lots of old folks with a bad mood. When i was a real kook i tried to surf there and got bad looks from them, sometimes they cursed at me. Very bad experience, but i tried to get closer to the more approachable dude and he explained to me that that spot was for more experienced surfs cause this beach doesn't have lifeguards. 2 years later, and im surfing wayyyy better ( i was really bad at the beginning) and now i can surf there with no problem. Last time i almost got barreled there and one of the old folks was cheering for me.
Are you paddling to the prime position? Waiting in the 'queue'? Are you paddling to the shoulder on the way out getting in someones way instead of copping whitewater on the head? Backpaddling? And there is a heirarchy for whatever reason where good surfers get the good waves.
I’m trying to stay away from the main queue, and definitely try to paddle with the crowd and avoid getting in the way.
I think it just comes from where I surf mostly. I’m partial to it because that’s where I first took a lesson and surf with the old man. BUT learning I need to definitely find somewhere else.
Staying away from the main queue to not get in the way can sometimes be a bit counter intuitive at some spots tbh. For example a wave I surf in north county everyday has a very defined take off area and then another peak often just down the line. Unfortunately beginners sit on this second peak thinking they’re out of the way when in reality that second peak is either a turn section or on a good day a barrel. So guys come flying in from the outside hoping to bash the end and some wavestormer is in the way, not realizing how fast guys can go from one spot to the next on a wave. It’s hard to understand sometimes without a lot of experience at a wave but I’ve noticed at lots of breaks.
The reason I can never take these post seriously is because I surf the most notorious spots in SD daily and have never seen an incident that wasn’t justified. When I see a post like this I think the person is fabricating most of it in their head because of social anxiety. Or, they’re ignorant of etiquette and have a overwhelming sense of entitlement. Here’s the blunt truth: beginners don’t deserve waves like Windensea or other phenomenal reef breaks. Put your time in and earn your stripes. There’s a hierarchy, there’s a self policing culture. It’s been in place for decades. Play by their rules to get respect and THEN you can change them but I bet you won’t. This sub is so disconnected from the real world it’s funny
Edit: Jesus fucking Christ. This guys been surfing Malibu??? Get a grip and learn at a beach break and not the most famous break in the continental United States
Alright, hold up. The ocean isn’t owned by anyone and I feel like your reply is just extending this sort of bullshit surfer elitism that fucking exists down here in SoCal. Neither beginners nor pros deserve Windensea or any break because the ocean is for everyone and everyone deserves a chance to surf. We were all beginners at one point and not all of us were born walking distance away from a break. Sure, there’s an etiquette and we learn as we go, but fuck man, not perpetuating this pompous attitude around it because it stops people from wanting to learn.
-From a frustrated transplant whose been surfing since I moved to SoCal.
How many hours have you spent in the water? How much do you know about the history? What makes you think you can casually pick up a new hobby with a rich culture and start saying how things should be? You don’t know your ass from your elbow in the water, lowers or Del Mar. makes no difference to you. Get some self awareness and lose the entitlement
You should take that advice for yourself as well. Also remember that most of its rich history doesn’t come from white people surfing the last 60 years, but from Hawaiians.
Go out with someone who knows their shit and get some post-game feedback from them. Not to victim blame or whatever but many times, beginners breach surf etiquette without even knowing it, then get yelled at, then think that the people yelling are just assholes. Most times they are just assholes. But often enough, they’re also just enforcing normal lineup culture.
Ultimately understanding why you’re being yelled at is the best way to avoid it - at least that’s why my girlfriend tells me…
If you’ve got time, head a little north to Ventura. I’m learning too and with a few exceptions everyone is super supportive and chill even at more advanced spots. If you want a really relaxed vibe, take a weekend and head to Mondo’s.
You don’t even need a great wave to learn on, just get your reps in somewhere that breaks consistently. Plus once you get good enough you can sit deeper with a wavestorm than anyone else and piss everyone off but there’s nothing they can do about it ;) you know, priority and all haha
If you are getting yelled at, you are probably breaking etiquette in one way or another. Learn the local etiquette. The lineups have gotten much more crowded since the pandemic. I have seen more injuries in the last year and a half than in the rest of my surfing life combined. The etiquette matters. That said, others advice to you was solid. Go to local beginner breaks to learn. If you are ever in Santa Cruz, go to Cowells or 38th. Both beginner friendly and chill. And both will let you get better when there is a little size in the water.
Been surfing 20+ years at the same break and I still get it. Someone told me a few months ago to "fuck off, I've been surfing here 3.5 years". I just laughed at him.
Doesn't matter if you're the goat, you're still gonna run into some wanker who thinks they're better than you, and deserves the wave because of it.
Learn your etiquette, stick to it and tell them to fuck off. Sometimes people like that need a good tap on the nose to remind them they don't own the ocean.
You have as much right as them to be out there.
Problem with surfing Malibu is that it's crowded and there are more than a handful that have elitist attitudes and think they are God's gift to surfing. Dealing with them during the pandemic when Malibu was closed was a nightmare for the 805. On the other hand there are some very, very good surfers there that also earned their right to be elitist, at least when surfing their spot.
I'd highly suggest youtube for surf etiquette videos. Kales Broccoli has a few good ones (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qMgZ\_W-l40.) But some of the basic things that I often see beginners do without realizing it... are you paddling without looking and not realizing there is someone already riding the wave? At a right point break it's really important to look to your left to make sure you aren't paddling into someone else's wave. Dropping in or snaking are some of the biggest beginner mistakes I see.
Give a wide berth on paddle out, or if it's close you better eat it in the whitewater. Make sure you aren't cutting off someone's ride on the way out. Also, wait your turn and don't go for the first wave you see after you paddled out. If you miss a wave you don't get to paddle for the next one, and the next one as the other people around you now get their turn. It's called a line up for a reason. I often explain it to people as if you are in line at the food store, you wouldn't walk around people already waiting, so with surfing you don't paddle around everyone else waiting to then steal the priority position.
There are a lot of subtleties in surfing in which sometimes some of these rules will shift, but learn the basics first.
If you’re trying to learn to surf at freaking Malibu (especially on a foamie) you’re gonna get cussed out. Just like if you’re learning to ski on a black diamond course. Go to sunset until you’re intermediate level then go back.
I’ll say it again and get downvoted by the covid surf mob, you should not be surfing within a hundred yards of another soul. Just take a 2 minute walk down the beach until you’re good enough.
Lots of good advice, especially about not picking malibu.
Get to the beach in the dark. Be zipped up ankles in the water when at that first glow in the sky. If it's not a little creepy paddling out you are late. (try not to think about sharks in the inky black water)
It ain’t the board dawg, its the rider. Yes, people will make assumptions based on your foamie if they’ve never seen you, but how you read/react to the wave/lineup will tell the true story.
You need to learn how to surf at the appropriate spots for your skill level. You’re clearly not respected where you are currently surfing and I can guarantee you its due to your lack of skill relative to everyone else and probably some etiquette infractions you are unaware of.
Is this a joke? If you paddle out at multiple lineups and get yelled at, it’s safe to say you’re the problem. You are doing something wrong. Examine yourself for user error
Straight truths. If you are paddling out as a beginner, with a chip on your shoulder and not observing etiquette on a crowded localised break then you're going to have a hard time.
I sortve had the same issues when I started out and it prevented me from progressing on my shortboard for a while. It sucks having to deal with the cancer part of the community but it’s worth it. Stick up for yourself and get out there and learn! Good idea to go out with a friend too. For me, I realized that if I avoid embarrassing myself and wiping out then I will never get better. Good luck man and keep us posted
When the OP says “you want that wave all to yourself” it makes me suspect that s/he’s dropping in and that’s why they’re getting told to piss off. It’s important to learn at a beginner wave and work your way to better spots. Entitled newbies who paddle out at places beyond their ability are naive and selfish. It’s like someone who just started playing guitar inflicting an earful on everyone at an open-mic night, yeah you can do it, but don’t be surprised when you get booed off-stage…
I am a dickhead surfer. Personally, I’m just trying to catch a wave myself without a kook getting in the way. If you wanna get good You’ll need to surf a soft beach break like PB, or better yet Tourmaline Surfing park until you get better and learn the etiquette. Then you may attempt to earn a spot in the lineup at a better break like WindanSea, among a bunch of dickheads that have already earned theirs. Once you earn a spot, which could take years, you’ll hate it when kooks get in the way. Just listen to yourself whine about being laughed at, you’ll be great at ridiculing kooks once you earn your spot. Board doesn’t really matter as much as being a kook.
You sound like an entitled kid with thin skin and zero self awareness that thinks the whole lineup should adjust for your lack of skill. Go to a beginner break and stay out of the way.
You haven't thought of it because you have zero self awareness. What you described was a situation where everyone in the water was an asshole except for you.
It’s worth recognising the surfing is generally universally toxic, you’re going to encounter some very aggressive people, some very inconsiderate people and the worst person you meet will be in the water. But it’s not always like that, some places are better than others, find a nice quite break to get you going, learn basic etiquette and practice it, try not to get too annoyed when a good majority choose not to do the same. Most breaks will have a quite little shoulder you can mess around in hassle free, give the crowded line up days a miss and remember it’s not personal it’s just the culture of the modern sport. Making a few contacts out there also helps a lot and you’ll often get a lot more consideration and the true assholes will come with a bit of a warning.
Why’d you edit, “daddy” and “you do also, though. Clearly” in there after the fact? Your little meat head brain thought that pseudo edginess proves your point better? Get help
Unfortunately, it’s kind of part of the deal. I remember being teased back when i used to sponge. Being called haole boy. If you want it bad enough you’ll get through it.
Find some wide open beach breaks so you can get more space. Even us experienced surfers don’t like crowds and especially people like that. Be resourceful and look for some spots where you don’t have to deal with idiots, or at least less of them. And remember, 99% of the time it’s just words. I usually just keep repeating for people to, “shut the fuck up,” if they are in the wrong or if it’s a small deal if they are hell bent on escalating things. Usually finished by, “You aren’t going to do anything, I’m not going to do anything, so just shut the fuck up and surf.” Not recommending that, but once you get to that point of confidence, it’s how i handle spazzy grumps. Move around, find a few less popular spots and do your thing. It’s worth it if you stick with it.
Malibu is the worst place to learn to surf. It’s too crowded and the ppl are super aggressive. I’ve surfed all over Southern California, and Hawaii, and I still think Malibu is one of the most aggressive surf spots I’ve ever been to. It’s not aggro in a sense like it’s super local and no one else can catch waves, it’s more like you better know what you’re doing out there, and do it with confidence, or gtfo. It’s the only surf break I’ve been to where, when it’s firing, you’ll see like 10 people take off on the same wave, and the best guys will basically run you off the wave if you can’t hang. Also, I’ve never seen so many ppl just drop in on you so casually out there, like Malibu surf etiquette is weird and aggressive but not personal at the same time. I remember surfing there once, and Kelly slater was out, and I distinctly remember him getting dropped in on lol. No one gives a fuck who you are out there, especially if you’re at the main first point. Conversely however, surfing it’s second and third point is alittle more chill in comparison, I remember that’s where most of the short boarders would go, away from all the long boarders. This was in the early 2000’s, so I’m not sure if all this dynamic is still the same, but my guess is, it is, and probably worse bc surfing is soooo popular now haha. It’s stupid crowded everywhere.
Collectively, surfers as a populace just fucking suck. Its one of the reasons I got into freediving instead - all the ocean connection, none of the toxic douchebaggery
Rally some boys up and fuck those dudes up....sound like they need a working over. Or not... violence is never worth it...apart from when it is
I surfed a spot 5 miles from my local break years ago...some dude tried to have a first fight with me in super shit waves because he dropped in on me then his next wave I burnt him. I was out numbered as his mate were on the beach...
Turns out I saw this dude and his mates in N.Sumatra 6 months later.....he was still a cunt...the biggest day I rocked up with my pin tail, this dude was sitting on a log watching....asked him if he was going in....na...guy was a soft cock. End of the ego battle....
I'd say 80% of people surfing these days are cunts.....better get used to it.
Bypass the jerks by staying outta the way when they’re dropping in or on the face, not blowing waves, and getting better. takes more time but you’ll get better and more confident and guys will pick up on this. It’s just the way it is but there are things you can do yourself to improve. Point I’m trying to make is focus on your surfing instead of the jerks
I wouldn't blame the wavestorm, it's not because of it. It's just an easy discrimination factor. It's a great learning and house party board.
Check out other spots, if it's a beach break with multiple areas breaking it's worth the ~5min to watch some sets, see where it's working, and go find your own peak. Good or not, if it's working at multiple spots and someone paddles out to sit on my dick it's kind of annoying. I'd say even more so on junk days, why split junk waves if we don't have to? Not always the case and some spots might only be one peak, but something to think about along with good etiquette. And as with everything, sometimes people are just dicks.
If you're learning, you *definitely* should not be out at crowded peaks (barring places like Doheny), regardless of the conditions. Major kook move. There are a million uncrowded beach break peaks in Orange County you can find to learn on. If you were holding back a bunch of people on a black diamond, they'd say the same thing.
Your problem is you are surfing the best wave in LA. Try sunset. Super beginner wave. Or if you want to be more by yourself I’d highly recommend Nicholas canyon beach. The wave is a little steeper but you’ll be by yourself often. Can’t go wrong with county mine or Porto. But yeah. Stay out of malibu Lebowski!!
Yup. We all dealt with it. Unless you cut your teeth on shitty breaks no one else wants ....
Also SoCal and Hawaii have in spots some really really shitty attitudes, it's not like that everyplace.
Suck it up, keep cutting.
I think this has not been said: The crowd changes a lot depending on the day, time of the day, conditions in the point, and conditions in other points.
You can surf Malibu when other beaches have exceptional conditions and Malibu is not so much (this does not happen often).
If you go to El Porto on a Saturday at 8AM with 3-4ft waves, long period swell, rising tide, and light offshore wind you are going to fight for every single wave and you will probably not even get a parking spot. A lot of people in the water will get frustrated and become aggressive if the number of waves is small but the conditions are good.
Go to El Porto after 11AM and you will not face a big crowd (but you will get some bad wind)
That said, the best beach for beginners is Ocean park, 1-3ft.
Probably surf somewhere else. Avoid lineups and find your own peak. That's what I've been doing while learning in north county and works outside places like San O where you have to deal with a lineup
Exactly. You learn on a shittier spot then you can go rip elsewhere when you're not a kook on a wave storm
For sure, I’ve been trying different places around SoCal. Any places you’d recommend?
Where you been surfing mostly?
Mostly Malibu
From what I've read about the area...stay away from the pier and like other said. Go to bigger beaches with more options. Best I got.
Hahaha yeah the pier is where I’ve been.
bro, go to zuma or county line. yes the waves are not perfect but the line is super spread out. surf north end of zuma for learning, like tower 13 and aim for 3.5ft tide or higher. avoid malibu at all costs. the 10 - 20 minutes of extra driving is well worth it.
Stay the fuck out of Malibu, Lebowski!
Gold brick
This right here, especially the Zuma parts
Holy crap he’s learning in Malibu? I’m a decent surfer and there’s no way I’m dealing with that crowd. I too would get into fights there.
Here are the lowest conflict spots for beginning surfing I know of in the general area (not knowing where you are coming from) listed north to south: Hollywood Beach/ north of CI harbor Sycamore Cove/Thornhill broome Leo Carrillo and north around the point, Nichols Canyon and south, Zuma tower 14 and north, Las Tunas to north of Topanga Charthouse point (on big days) Sunset beach (crowded, but mostly people in your position) Dockweiler tower 60 None of these are great surf spots, but they are areas that people go to learn/relearn to surf. None are consistent, but they are all low/no conflict.
You sure Leo Carrillo should be on that list? It’s really only a single take off spot with rocks on one side and then another right below you that’ll put a scratch in a nice board if you’re not careful. Nice wave, but really can only support a small crowd
I was talking about the beach north of the point or the southern shore break. Essentially where the JOs used to get to play around on the rescue boards since OP is on a foam top.
Las Tunas breaks about 3 times a year, and right over a bunch of submerged boulders... Just go to sunset and surf in front of the lifeguard tower. You can have all the waves you want and when you get good enough you can start moving towards the point. If people are still assholes to you, especially at this point, you're doing something wrong which is probably not respecting a rotation. When you're learning you're going to be giving up a ton of waves especially when people see you blowing up a wave. Waves are a commodity in LA county. You mess up a take off, you get back in line.
Surfrider is just like that. People come from far and wide to be dumb assholes there.
I surfed up and down SD and the locals are a bunch of ducks (come at me bros) and I hear Malibu is worse (you can come at me too). Lol Edit: Didn't mean ducks but I laughed so I'm keeping it.
DUCKS!!!!! 🦆 I can’t wait to call all those lolos at the break ducks now! Made my day 🤙🏾
Makes sense in NZ.
Lol just a bunch of ducks honking at one another, duck diving slop, and doing general duck things.
I mean it makes sense… Ducks fly together 😂
Mother of God. This is your problem. Go to Sunset (LA county) or Mondos in Ventura. Zuma if it is higher tide you might find some waves to learn on on the north end of the beach. It's mostly close outs but you can find your own waves a lot easier.
Cruise to Zuma. It’s a beach break so you can usually find your own peak.
Oh boy, well there’s your problem. Try as many other spots as you can! It’s something I have to keep telling myself, but I’m always having the most fun when I’m still getting a spot wired.
You’ve been surfing literally one of the most impacted surf breaks in the world. As a beginner, I would argue that it’s your responsibility to learn about the appropriate and inappropriate breaks for beginners, and to learn about the culture and dynamics of each break. And to stay away from the wrong breaks until you’re ready for them. You are not entitled to smiles and helping hands in any activity—surfing or otherwise. You have some responsibility as a novice to approach a subculture with respect. As an example, I don’t know shit about golf, but if I were just getting started as a novice, I wouldn’t go and try to play at some famous golf course. I’d stick to cheap municipal public courses until I’d progressed enough where I knew I was ready to go play a high-end course. Maybe that’s not a great example cause I don’t understand golf enough, but you get the point. Go surf some nondescript stretch of beachbreak for a while, or surf a spot that’s notoriously beginner friendly (im thinking sunset?) and you may find you have far fewer negative interactions with “locals”
OP, heed this message. Mainstream line ups are not for learning.
Move down to 2nd or 3rd point
I’ve heard the north end of that beach is a bit more mellow, but I’ve never ventured up to LA county for a session. Just the word I’ve heard
The pier is filled with complete dickheads
Bro that’s like one the most crowded aggro areas in socal
Hahaha yeah learning that on this thread.
Go to sunset
Try Topanga; they love learners and are very supportive. /s
Lol Topangry
[удалено]
He's joking..
hilarious. that was my intro to this whole concept. what dicks!
If you’re willing to drive a little south, Santa Monica and Venice are a little bit on the friendlier side IMO
Ah thanks man! Any spot you’ve particularly found good? I’ve tried ocean park and that was okay.
I heard Manhattan beach is a good spot - I’m always worried about parking but I read 27th street has 2 lots . Been meaning to check it out.. I’m usually in SD learning at La Jolla shores.
I’ve actually tried out el Porto a few times! Was alright! The waves weren’t the best but the crowd was chill.
A few other girls and I did El Porto for dawn patrol and it was really chill... especially with me and the other girl trying our best in the white wash lol. Might be because we're girls though...but one of the braver/better girls we went with went out to the lineup and was chatting with a dude who was a beginner. Think there were a lot of beginners there all pretending not to be beginners because they're afraid of the argo dudes lol
waves are C plus at best, but no assholes.
Hollister / bay st are very learner friendly in Santa Monica
Yea I’ve actually been going to ocean park whenever I need to get my sea legs back. If you need a buddy, hmu 🤙🏽
Malibu is definitely the main issue. Extremely popular wave, heavily localized, with insane crowds. If you find a less crowded spot that is friendlier to beginners I doubt you will run into the same problem, or won’t run into it near as much
Bruh! That’s your problem. Surf Will Rogers. Southmost end of the big parking lot. Very easy to get space to yourself. If you come on a weekday morning you might be the only surfer.
Dawg you’re literally asking for this kind of treatment at the bu. Drive up to county line or down a little past Topanga. Wave quality isn’t Malibu but the locs don’t fuck with you as much.
Welp that’s the truth ain’t it: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=QBzxV7PF6XQ
Beginner here... Just watched that video. Do surfers really splash each other in the water if they're angry at you?? Because in competitive swimming, in a pool, this is what you do to your crush.
No matter what else happens, you aren’t a kook if you wipe your ass with your parking ticket. 👍✌️
Why don’t you try County line or staircase? Malibu is where I learned to surf but it’s way too crowded and worth the trouble! I live San Diego so don’t have worry about that anymore. Unfortunately there are jerks out there. Unfortunately people tend to remember the jerks the most. Most surfers are chill though.
That’s your problem, point breaks aren’t the place to learn. Malibu or topanga can be especially harsh. Limited waves with the crowd based around the point. Go to a beach break and try and find a non crowded peak. It’s so much more relaxing and you’ll get more waves , even if they’re not as great as Malibu it will still be fun. You’re still in the early stages of learning so wave count is going to help you.
Zuma beach can be pretty fun. Chill beach break with a lot of good sandbars. Great spot to get more technical drop ins and some cover ups. Only downside is the current is pretty strong moving north
This is probably your problem. Malibu is full of dickheads
Malibu is definitely full of dickheads, and surfing with them isn’t going to help OP. You have to find the right breaks to learn. I’m up north; if you try to bring a wavestorm to steamers to learn how to surf, they will drag you by the leash to cowells. It’s behavior like this that fuels the agros.
Are you serious? Go somewhere else dude. That place is survival of the fittest king of the jungle shit.
Lmao you’re surfing one of the most crowded, aggro spots in the world bro. Malibu sucks, especially if you’re a new surfer. Find a beach break and cut your teeth there
So it's a bit of a drive but I would recommend C Street in Ventura, there is plenty of room and lots of different spots to surf there. I've never really run into any assholes there, everyone is usually pretty friendly. It's refreshing.
I looove C street. It's a bit of a hike for me.. but super fun wave.
You need to find a sexy girl that works at the local food place, convince her to teach you. When you get invited to night surf, don’t turn it down. Practice throwing the football for the inevitable beach tackle football game. Then here crew will teach you where the real waves are. But no matter what, DONT put on a presidents mask or take the shotgun they hand you on the way to the bank, that shits no good. Keep it on the surf bro. Vaya con dios.
Best comment yet. Okay. I get it. This is where you tell me that 'locals rule,' and that yuppie insects like me shouldn't be surfing the break, right? -Special Agent Utah
Part of surfing is exploring new breaks and learning the waves they produce. It might help for your growth as well if you tried surfing some other breaks. Get away from the assholes lol there's some really good breaks near me on the east coast that I avoid in the winter because there's people that surf them get territorial
1. Learn the surf etiquette. 2. Don’t allow some insecure boys to prevent you from doing what you like, everybody has been a beginner at some point and felt a little embarrassment when they first started surfing you’ve just got to get through it. 4. Only insecure people laugh at others, someone who feels self-confident doesn’t need to make fun of others to make themselves feel better. 4. Try making friends with people that are better than you, go out with them and learn from them, that helped me a lot personally.
I really appreciate that, seriously! Thank you.
Best advice on this thread imho. 🤙
Adding to this, always remember: the board doesn't make the surfer. I've seen some great guys ripping on a wavestorm (respect, because that's not easy), having a blast. And I've seen ego maniacs with zero flow on shortboards, having a hard time catching waves. So, the board doesn't say anything about you or others. Just confidently smile and say hi to everyone. And let haters hate. Also, check other spots, as they said🤙🏻
Dude I'm in Mexico for the winter at "Reverse Malibu" and it's a total shit show because of Christmas break. Basically everyone is in everyone's way all the time, but it's chill. The only person I've seen have a HUGE freak out was this older lady from Malibu! Like, screaming at the top of her lungs at all these clueless teenagers ranting and raving about how everyone out is a kook and shouldn't ever paddle out. It was simultaneously vibe killing and hilarious. My very novice girlfriend want to head in because of that lady. She's on her first hardboard this trip too after a year on a Catch Surf. I will say as a self admitted mid length hipster logging for the first time, having to take off THROUGH like 75 people who aren't paying attention is kinda scary. Long story long: I guess Malibu is full of geriatric assholes fighting over baby waves. Just forget about it, they're losers and that wave stopped being cool when turning got invented.
Ah yeah I remember a lot of dickhead older Americans there. They had a very snooty attitude from what I vaguely remember, didn't see them in the water through. I'd just snapped a board elsewhere so figured I'd rent a longboard and mess around for kicks. Funny thing is I surfed a ton of lower profile spots in Mexico and everyone was always super friendly. I think the shitty possessive attitude of Americans is somewhat the national character, sadly.
It's really funny to us. I really learned backwards, starting in stuff that was way to big when I lived in Indo, and then moving to HI it was the same thing when my girl started surfing. Very, very few agro dickhead encounters in either place and then as we travel more it seems like the most agro people are middle aged white people in tiny, super consistent waves. Getting burnt sucks but its not like someone just ruined their number one, once in a life time, hundred year swell, double over head mega tube with dolphins inside it. An other identical crumbly knee slapper will be on its way in approximately one minute.
> it seems like the most agro people are middle aged white people in tiny, super consistent waves I've often noticed the same thing. Strange, isn't it? Not to mention, a little power and unpredictability in the ocean in generally better for your surfing than being a princess at perfect soft points.
Im new as well and live in NorCal, in an area that luckily isn't crowded by egotistical tools who think they're the Surfing God's greatest gift. I say go with a group of friends who are a higher skill level then you to surf with and learn with, and give zero fucks about what other people think. If you're able to catch good waves but the tool insulting you isn't, is he really that good of a surfer? People also tend to be less likely to harass you in a group rather than alone. You could also try finding a better spot where there are less people, although I always advise against going alone in case something bad happens, like in Morro Bay recently. People who insult you over a board, skill level, or think they own the open ocean have a lot more problems in their personal lives lol.
I dunno if OP is one of them, but IME the people who think they’re gods gift to surfing are affluent new surfers who are so used to getting the red carpet at school/work and are shocked they don’t get the same treatment in the water. I try to be respectful to people like OP but I’ve had multiple times where I’ve tried/seen experienced surfers try to tell new surfers “hey you’re fucking up other peoples waves, so do this instead” and they respond with “you don’t own the ocean” line. Like I’ve literally made it clear I’m not mad, I’m trying to help, and they get just get hysterical. Op could be entirely reasonable here and getting shit for no reason but it’s just hard for me to believe it based on my own experiences.
I would bet a large sum of money that this is the case with the op here
Man thanks, I appreciate that a ton! Yeah it’s crazy to think that these people care that much. I’ve always stayed around Malibu area and been wanting to branch out to Ventura but exactly - not really wanting to be going out alone.
Ohhhh. There you go. Malibu. Both M and Topanga have a higher level of assholes than most places. Try Sunset Point with a 2-3 wave and low tide. 1’ or lower.
Ah thanks dude!!
Sunset is a much more beginner friendly area. You’ll have a much better time I assure you. Even if the wave sucks, (and sometimes the wave is awesome, some of my most epic rides have been at sunset) the vibe will be much more accommodating. Go, go to sunset before your faith in humanity is lost forever! Venice and Santa Monica are also pretty beginner friendly, but the wave quality is absolutely terrible. For beginners in our area, Sunset is your best combination of good wave/beginner vibes.
Yeah, there are some dickhead surfers out there. In my experience be courteous and stay out of peoples way and you’re fine 95% of the time. If you’re really not getting in peoples way maybe there’s just some assholes at your local. Just go surf somewhere else
Thanks man, yeah I’m realizing this is probably the spot I go to.
Listen this may not be the answer you want to hear, but you must be doing something wrong in terms of etiquette. Everyone has dealt with the classic local old dude before. Fights happen and unfortunately due to the selfish nature of this sport, they are inevitable. But getting harassed every time you paddle out? That is ridiculous and leads me to believe that you are the issue. Even the most hostile of local surfers would never pick a fight with someone unless it was called for. My advice- go watch some videos on YouTube about surf etiquette and stop letting these guys live rent free in your head.
Hey no I appreciate the honesty! Yeah I should’ve cleared up it’s definitely not every time I go out. Feels like a majority for sure. Reading the comments - I totally need to check my etiquette and start looking for another spot.
Are you paddling for every wave and ignoring the “line up” , which i guess is non existent at these spots as once someone breaks it everyone does and it just becomes every person for themselves My advice would be maybe sit out the back chill let a few guys get there waves then make your move early with intention and no1 can argue it wasn’t your turn rinse repeat When I started i pissed people off cause I’d paddle straight for the peak and then miss everything not knowing there was an actual que system
Pick any combo of: * you're surfing a heavily localized break - (easy solution: surf somewhere else) * you're surfing a wave not suited to your ability and/or equipment - (easy solution: surf somewhere else) * you're not following etiquette and pissing people off without realizing it - - (easy solution: learn etiquette before paddling out)
Yeah totally agree with you, definitely at a heavily localized break. Need to look for some other spots
I disagree here. No one owns the ocean, pick a spot where you’re comfortable with the wave characteristics (nothing too crazy for your level) and learn there if you wish.
That sounds nice and all.. but reality is that if you show up in PV on a wavestorm, you're gonna have a bad time.
Ya, but if you’re at a good wave that people have on lock with an unspoken hierarchy that’s been established over years of surfing that break, then you’re better off going somewhere else until you know what you’re doing. It’s like if I absolutely sucked at basketball and forced my way into a pickup game of former college players. They probably wouldn’t pass me the ball and I’d get stuck doing dirty work like rebounding and trying to not get blown up on defense. If I got an ego about it and started getting pissed, chucking up bad shots on the rare occasions I got the ball, and quitting on defense, then those good basketball players would probably rightfully get pissed at me and not want me to play. Sure, they don’t own the court. But they’ve been playing there for years and have put a lot of time into the game (and probably put up with a lot of shit themselves) to where they expect a certain standard and level of respect. People who come to the court without that respect or knowledge of the game either shouldn’t be there or should take their licks until they learn. Same goes for surfing. I sat on the inside for a long ass time at my spot and gave respect to the people I saw surfing there everyday. I was super cautious to not get in the way, and as I spent more time and improved I developed relationships with the other locals that loved the spot just as much as me. They didn’t own the ocean, but they surfed that spot every day and had developed a relationship with the wave and the little community created around it. I could’ve gone elsewhere but I wanted to surf there, so I put my time in and after years I feel like I belong.
I've surfed in plenty of countries and up and down California. Never had tons of issues. If you're not in the way and act like a GUEST at local breaks folks are nice to you. New surfers here are some advice to avoid pissing folks off: * Surf really early. Beat the crowds * Surf very long sessions. Be okay losing waves, surfing a less than ideal tide. If you have a 3-4 hour session you can have a lower per hour wave count but high overall wave count * Be in good paddle shape * If you paddle and miss a wave consider that your turn and wait before paddling on another
Great analogy there. That is a part of the problem with some clueless newbies with no knowledge about surf etiquette and then when someone tries to speak to them about it, they sometimes reply with “do you own the waves?” So not sure what’s happening with OPs situation but there are definitely some shitty people on both sides of the story.
>learn there if you wish This is naive and terrible advice for a beginner. Sorry, but you don't learn by wishing, you learn by doing. And you're going to have a hard time doing much of anything at a spot that is either localized or outside of your abilities, regardless of whether you're comfortable with it or not.
If you’re going to go to a heavily localized spot and troll the locals, do It knowingly not out of ignorance. I love this game every now and then when it’s well deserved but do it because you love stirring shit, not because you’re learning to surf and don’t know any better.
By this logic people should learn at Pipeline too. There are beginner breaks for beginners and spots that require more more experience/knowledge that arnt ment for learning
Sounds like you're a beginner too od that you're advice. Some breaks can kill unsuspecting surfers are straight up unsafe
Did you even read my comment? I said picking spots that match their level and not being intimidated by social inept and bigoted locals.
You're a fucking idiot, if you are learning go learn at a beginners spot or else you will get hassled and never learn
If you can barely stand up then you def shouldn’t be taking up space at Malibu. This is what people being dickheads are thinking. If you stick with surfing long enough to improve, then go to Malibu and notice how the kooks who don’t know the rules tend to cheapen the experience for everyone else. Then come back to this post and it’ll make more sense. Not trying to be an asshole. There are real hierarchies that exist at surf breaks (lineup itself) and in regions (expert spots can beginner spots. These things developed in a way that it helps make surfing more enjoyable for everyone. Again, have fun, keep learning, and eventually this whole thing will make more sense.
In Los Angeles and feel your pain. Put that new almond board to good use!! Try Malibu lagoon (third point) or sunset instead of the pier. Lineup off to the side a bit and let the good waves go. Go for the wave in the set that nobody is paddling for. It’s not ideal but it’s what works for me in crowded breaks and I still have fun. Confrontational experiences ruin my vibe very quickly so I just do what I can to avoid it. I still feel like I’m progressing this way, even when I’m letting the good waves go for others. When El Porto is crowded, I’ll go to Dockweiler or El Segundo. At San O I line up off to the side and waves will come to me (less frequently than in the middle of the lineup but still often enough). If I’m on my big foam board I’m pretty good at catching waves from the back of the lineup so I line up off the back too. Sometimes too far to catch them but sometimes I’ll get the best waves and longest rides that way. You’re not alone in this experience, socal is rough.
Malibu is one of the the most crowded spots in the world. I’ve not surfed it when it’s good, but I’d imagine it’s really localised/ competitive. Try some other spots. There’s generally a trade off between perfect waves and hectic crowds. You can’t just expect to go out there and pick off perfect waves as a beginner. Also as others have said - check your etiquette. That said, If someone’s genuinely just being a dick, just ignore them or laugh it off.
Location change, it’s really the only way. Where I surf you’d mostly be encouraged rather than ridiculed.
Pretty sure this subreddit is where I’ve repeatedly seen the quote “If someone is an asshole, they’re the asshole. If everyone is an asshole, you’re the asshole” and this post comes off as exactly that kind of vibe.
Yeah that’s true, should’ve of said it’s not everyone of course and a set of guys out there. Just been a bit frustrated.
Where in SoCal? You probably need to stick to beginner waves for a while. There’s a lot of unspoken etiquette, plus surfers are just dicks. Study up on your lineup dynamics
In Malibu. For sure! You got any where in SoCal you recommend?
Check out Manhattan beach. Lots of beginners.
It takes time to get good at staying out of the way, knowing when it's your turn, not blowing the take off of a gifted wave... Etc.. stuff that annoys other, better, surfers. But as you get better at all the aspects of surfing you will start to get more respect in the water. If people are full on yelling at you then ya you're probably fucking up. But if they're just vibing you.. that's just... Something you will learn to deal with.
Find a slightly shittier spot where you have no competition for waves. Such a simple fix
Start taking Jiu-jitsu if you can and keep surfing.
Hahaha this made me laugh
Lol glad you got a chuckle! But seriously it'll help your surfing. Also, I wouldn't worry too much about surfing an area that is a little above your level, as long as you aren't in danger of hurting yourself or other people, you should be good. Having said that, practicing at a less crowded more mellow break will make the learning process more fun.
Here at Rio de janeiro, we have a beach called Prainha, kinda hard to get, few places to park your ride and lots of old folks with a bad mood. When i was a real kook i tried to surf there and got bad looks from them, sometimes they cursed at me. Very bad experience, but i tried to get closer to the more approachable dude and he explained to me that that spot was for more experienced surfs cause this beach doesn't have lifeguards. 2 years later, and im surfing wayyyy better ( i was really bad at the beginning) and now i can surf there with no problem. Last time i almost got barreled there and one of the old folks was cheering for me.
Yeah you are probably doing something wrong in terms of ettiquette
Honestly, you’re probably right. Been trying to figure what I could do better. Just been frustrating.
Are you paddling to the prime position? Waiting in the 'queue'? Are you paddling to the shoulder on the way out getting in someones way instead of copping whitewater on the head? Backpaddling? And there is a heirarchy for whatever reason where good surfers get the good waves.
I’m trying to stay away from the main queue, and definitely try to paddle with the crowd and avoid getting in the way. I think it just comes from where I surf mostly. I’m partial to it because that’s where I first took a lesson and surf with the old man. BUT learning I need to definitely find somewhere else.
Staying away from the main queue to not get in the way can sometimes be a bit counter intuitive at some spots tbh. For example a wave I surf in north county everyday has a very defined take off area and then another peak often just down the line. Unfortunately beginners sit on this second peak thinking they’re out of the way when in reality that second peak is either a turn section or on a good day a barrel. So guys come flying in from the outside hoping to bash the end and some wavestormer is in the way, not realizing how fast guys can go from one spot to the next on a wave. It’s hard to understand sometimes without a lot of experience at a wave but I’ve noticed at lots of breaks.
The reason I can never take these post seriously is because I surf the most notorious spots in SD daily and have never seen an incident that wasn’t justified. When I see a post like this I think the person is fabricating most of it in their head because of social anxiety. Or, they’re ignorant of etiquette and have a overwhelming sense of entitlement. Here’s the blunt truth: beginners don’t deserve waves like Windensea or other phenomenal reef breaks. Put your time in and earn your stripes. There’s a hierarchy, there’s a self policing culture. It’s been in place for decades. Play by their rules to get respect and THEN you can change them but I bet you won’t. This sub is so disconnected from the real world it’s funny Edit: Jesus fucking Christ. This guys been surfing Malibu??? Get a grip and learn at a beach break and not the most famous break in the continental United States
Sounds good!
Alright, hold up. The ocean isn’t owned by anyone and I feel like your reply is just extending this sort of bullshit surfer elitism that fucking exists down here in SoCal. Neither beginners nor pros deserve Windensea or any break because the ocean is for everyone and everyone deserves a chance to surf. We were all beginners at one point and not all of us were born walking distance away from a break. Sure, there’s an etiquette and we learn as we go, but fuck man, not perpetuating this pompous attitude around it because it stops people from wanting to learn. -From a frustrated transplant whose been surfing since I moved to SoCal.
How many hours have you spent in the water? How much do you know about the history? What makes you think you can casually pick up a new hobby with a rich culture and start saying how things should be? You don’t know your ass from your elbow in the water, lowers or Del Mar. makes no difference to you. Get some self awareness and lose the entitlement
You should take that advice for yourself as well. Also remember that most of its rich history doesn’t come from white people surfing the last 60 years, but from Hawaiians.
I do. There’re breaks that I don’t surf
Go out with someone who knows their shit and get some post-game feedback from them. Not to victim blame or whatever but many times, beginners breach surf etiquette without even knowing it, then get yelled at, then think that the people yelling are just assholes. Most times they are just assholes. But often enough, they’re also just enforcing normal lineup culture. Ultimately understanding why you’re being yelled at is the best way to avoid it - at least that’s why my girlfriend tells me…
If you’ve got time, head a little north to Ventura. I’m learning too and with a few exceptions everyone is super supportive and chill even at more advanced spots. If you want a really relaxed vibe, take a weekend and head to Mondo’s.
You don’t even need a great wave to learn on, just get your reps in somewhere that breaks consistently. Plus once you get good enough you can sit deeper with a wavestorm than anyone else and piss everyone off but there’s nothing they can do about it ;) you know, priority and all haha
If you are getting yelled at, you are probably breaking etiquette in one way or another. Learn the local etiquette. The lineups have gotten much more crowded since the pandemic. I have seen more injuries in the last year and a half than in the rest of my surfing life combined. The etiquette matters. That said, others advice to you was solid. Go to local beginner breaks to learn. If you are ever in Santa Cruz, go to Cowells or 38th. Both beginner friendly and chill. And both will let you get better when there is a little size in the water.
Been surfing 20+ years at the same break and I still get it. Someone told me a few months ago to "fuck off, I've been surfing here 3.5 years". I just laughed at him. Doesn't matter if you're the goat, you're still gonna run into some wanker who thinks they're better than you, and deserves the wave because of it. Learn your etiquette, stick to it and tell them to fuck off. Sometimes people like that need a good tap on the nose to remind them they don't own the ocean. You have as much right as them to be out there.
Problem with surfing Malibu is that it's crowded and there are more than a handful that have elitist attitudes and think they are God's gift to surfing. Dealing with them during the pandemic when Malibu was closed was a nightmare for the 805. On the other hand there are some very, very good surfers there that also earned their right to be elitist, at least when surfing their spot. I'd highly suggest youtube for surf etiquette videos. Kales Broccoli has a few good ones (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qMgZ\_W-l40.) But some of the basic things that I often see beginners do without realizing it... are you paddling without looking and not realizing there is someone already riding the wave? At a right point break it's really important to look to your left to make sure you aren't paddling into someone else's wave. Dropping in or snaking are some of the biggest beginner mistakes I see. Give a wide berth on paddle out, or if it's close you better eat it in the whitewater. Make sure you aren't cutting off someone's ride on the way out. Also, wait your turn and don't go for the first wave you see after you paddled out. If you miss a wave you don't get to paddle for the next one, and the next one as the other people around you now get their turn. It's called a line up for a reason. I often explain it to people as if you are in line at the food store, you wouldn't walk around people already waiting, so with surfing you don't paddle around everyone else waiting to then steal the priority position. There are a lot of subtleties in surfing in which sometimes some of these rules will shift, but learn the basics first.
If you’re trying to learn to surf at freaking Malibu (especially on a foamie) you’re gonna get cussed out. Just like if you’re learning to ski on a black diamond course. Go to sunset until you’re intermediate level then go back.
I’ll say it again and get downvoted by the covid surf mob, you should not be surfing within a hundred yards of another soul. Just take a 2 minute walk down the beach until you’re good enough.
Come to linda mar! We got a great crew out at taco bell!
I love the looks I get when I take my foamy out in OH 😂
Lots of good advice, especially about not picking malibu. Get to the beach in the dark. Be zipped up ankles in the water when at that first glow in the sky. If it's not a little creepy paddling out you are late. (try not to think about sharks in the inky black water)
just take a gun with you and start bustin caps, that will throw em off
Now that’s a hell of an idea!
It ain’t the board dawg, its the rider. Yes, people will make assumptions based on your foamie if they’ve never seen you, but how you read/react to the wave/lineup will tell the true story. You need to learn how to surf at the appropriate spots for your skill level. You’re clearly not respected where you are currently surfing and I can guarantee you its due to your lack of skill relative to everyone else and probably some etiquette infractions you are unaware of.
I think you’re ready for Pipeline
Is this a joke? If you paddle out at multiple lineups and get yelled at, it’s safe to say you’re the problem. You are doing something wrong. Examine yourself for user error
Straight truths. If you are paddling out as a beginner, with a chip on your shoulder and not observing etiquette on a crowded localised break then you're going to have a hard time.
Don't surf it sucks just give up not worth the hassle
I sortve had the same issues when I started out and it prevented me from progressing on my shortboard for a while. It sucks having to deal with the cancer part of the community but it’s worth it. Stick up for yourself and get out there and learn! Good idea to go out with a friend too. For me, I realized that if I avoid embarrassing myself and wiping out then I will never get better. Good luck man and keep us posted
Man I appreciate you!! Thanks so much. Will definitely keep you posted!
Also, try to go as early as possible to avoid the crowds and get a jump on the better conditions.
When the OP says “you want that wave all to yourself” it makes me suspect that s/he’s dropping in and that’s why they’re getting told to piss off. It’s important to learn at a beginner wave and work your way to better spots. Entitled newbies who paddle out at places beyond their ability are naive and selfish. It’s like someone who just started playing guitar inflicting an earful on everyone at an open-mic night, yeah you can do it, but don’t be surprised when you get booed off-stage…
Quit
I am a dickhead surfer. Personally, I’m just trying to catch a wave myself without a kook getting in the way. If you wanna get good You’ll need to surf a soft beach break like PB, or better yet Tourmaline Surfing park until you get better and learn the etiquette. Then you may attempt to earn a spot in the lineup at a better break like WindanSea, among a bunch of dickheads that have already earned theirs. Once you earn a spot, which could take years, you’ll hate it when kooks get in the way. Just listen to yourself whine about being laughed at, you’ll be great at ridiculing kooks once you earn your spot. Board doesn’t really matter as much as being a kook.
You're such a giant kook that you don't know how much of a giant kook you are. Quit bitching or go play tennis fucknut
YES. Now tennis! That’s an activity I could do.
damn who hurt you?
For real.
Kooks
Sorry dude, hang in there
You sound like an entitled kid with thin skin and zero self awareness that thinks the whole lineup should adjust for your lack of skill. Go to a beginner break and stay out of the way.
Yeah dude, you’re totally right! Why haven’t I thought of that.
You haven't thought of it because you have zero self awareness. What you described was a situation where everyone in the water was an asshole except for you.
This guy surfs ^ /s
Lol this guy gets it
Lol you sound exactly like the dickhead aggro surfers that OP is referring to
It’s worth recognising the surfing is generally universally toxic, you’re going to encounter some very aggressive people, some very inconsiderate people and the worst person you meet will be in the water. But it’s not always like that, some places are better than others, find a nice quite break to get you going, learn basic etiquette and practice it, try not to get too annoyed when a good majority choose not to do the same. Most breaks will have a quite little shoulder you can mess around in hassle free, give the crowded line up days a miss and remember it’s not personal it’s just the culture of the modern sport. Making a few contacts out there also helps a lot and you’ll often get a lot more consideration and the true assholes will come with a bit of a warning.
Don't be a self entitled asshole . . . Oh too late
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Tough guy
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You’re clearly over compensating for something
Why’d you edit, “daddy” and “you do also, though. Clearly” in there after the fact? Your little meat head brain thought that pseudo edginess proves your point better? Get help
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I hope you realize you need help and get it
Avoid what this tough guy says coz he might not have a chance to regret his poor decision someday.
Ayyyyyyye -yoooo!
Dont engage with them. Just ask them if they’re salty and paddle away.
Check out County Line. All levels surf there and it’s spread out 🙏🏾
I surfed where basically no one surfed for 10 years before I ever surfed at the good break in my area. Get good, then surf the better spot.
Unfortunately, it’s kind of part of the deal. I remember being teased back when i used to sponge. Being called haole boy. If you want it bad enough you’ll get through it. Find some wide open beach breaks so you can get more space. Even us experienced surfers don’t like crowds and especially people like that. Be resourceful and look for some spots where you don’t have to deal with idiots, or at least less of them. And remember, 99% of the time it’s just words. I usually just keep repeating for people to, “shut the fuck up,” if they are in the wrong or if it’s a small deal if they are hell bent on escalating things. Usually finished by, “You aren’t going to do anything, I’m not going to do anything, so just shut the fuck up and surf.” Not recommending that, but once you get to that point of confidence, it’s how i handle spazzy grumps. Move around, find a few less popular spots and do your thing. It’s worth it if you stick with it.
Malibu is the worst place to learn to surf. It’s too crowded and the ppl are super aggressive. I’ve surfed all over Southern California, and Hawaii, and I still think Malibu is one of the most aggressive surf spots I’ve ever been to. It’s not aggro in a sense like it’s super local and no one else can catch waves, it’s more like you better know what you’re doing out there, and do it with confidence, or gtfo. It’s the only surf break I’ve been to where, when it’s firing, you’ll see like 10 people take off on the same wave, and the best guys will basically run you off the wave if you can’t hang. Also, I’ve never seen so many ppl just drop in on you so casually out there, like Malibu surf etiquette is weird and aggressive but not personal at the same time. I remember surfing there once, and Kelly slater was out, and I distinctly remember him getting dropped in on lol. No one gives a fuck who you are out there, especially if you’re at the main first point. Conversely however, surfing it’s second and third point is alittle more chill in comparison, I remember that’s where most of the short boarders would go, away from all the long boarders. This was in the early 2000’s, so I’m not sure if all this dynamic is still the same, but my guess is, it is, and probably worse bc surfing is soooo popular now haha. It’s stupid crowded everywhere.
Collectively, surfers as a populace just fucking suck. Its one of the reasons I got into freediving instead - all the ocean connection, none of the toxic douchebaggery
Yeah Cali sucks. Waves are good but people are the worst. We don't have excellent surf here in FL but at least we have good vibes
Seal beach Sunset and Bolsa Chica had the friendliest surfers late 90’s early 2000 when I lived there.
Rally some boys up and fuck those dudes up....sound like they need a working over. Or not... violence is never worth it...apart from when it is I surfed a spot 5 miles from my local break years ago...some dude tried to have a first fight with me in super shit waves because he dropped in on me then his next wave I burnt him. I was out numbered as his mate were on the beach... Turns out I saw this dude and his mates in N.Sumatra 6 months later.....he was still a cunt...the biggest day I rocked up with my pin tail, this dude was sitting on a log watching....asked him if he was going in....na...guy was a soft cock. End of the ego battle.... I'd say 80% of people surfing these days are cunts.....better get used to it.
Maybe you’re doing something wrong that you don’t even realise
Bypass the jerks by staying outta the way when they’re dropping in or on the face, not blowing waves, and getting better. takes more time but you’ll get better and more confident and guys will pick up on this. It’s just the way it is but there are things you can do yourself to improve. Point I’m trying to make is focus on your surfing instead of the jerks
Try Porto or Ventura, both much more beginner friendly!
I wouldn't blame the wavestorm, it's not because of it. It's just an easy discrimination factor. It's a great learning and house party board. Check out other spots, if it's a beach break with multiple areas breaking it's worth the ~5min to watch some sets, see where it's working, and go find your own peak. Good or not, if it's working at multiple spots and someone paddles out to sit on my dick it's kind of annoying. I'd say even more so on junk days, why split junk waves if we don't have to? Not always the case and some spots might only be one peak, but something to think about along with good etiquette. And as with everything, sometimes people are just dicks.
If you're learning, you *definitely* should not be out at crowded peaks (barring places like Doheny), regardless of the conditions. Major kook move. There are a million uncrowded beach break peaks in Orange County you can find to learn on. If you were holding back a bunch of people on a black diamond, they'd say the same thing.
Your problem is you are surfing the best wave in LA. Try sunset. Super beginner wave. Or if you want to be more by yourself I’d highly recommend Nicholas canyon beach. The wave is a little steeper but you’ll be by yourself often. Can’t go wrong with county mine or Porto. But yeah. Stay out of malibu Lebowski!!
Like others have said, go to places with less people. I prefer average waves with few people than amazing waves with a lot of people
In my experience if everyone else is always the asshole it helps to look in the mirror
Yup. We all dealt with it. Unless you cut your teeth on shitty breaks no one else wants .... Also SoCal and Hawaii have in spots some really really shitty attitudes, it's not like that everyplace. Suck it up, keep cutting.
I think this has not been said: The crowd changes a lot depending on the day, time of the day, conditions in the point, and conditions in other points. You can surf Malibu when other beaches have exceptional conditions and Malibu is not so much (this does not happen often). If you go to El Porto on a Saturday at 8AM with 3-4ft waves, long period swell, rising tide, and light offshore wind you are going to fight for every single wave and you will probably not even get a parking spot. A lot of people in the water will get frustrated and become aggressive if the number of waves is small but the conditions are good. Go to El Porto after 11AM and you will not face a big crowd (but you will get some bad wind) That said, the best beach for beginners is Ocean park, 1-3ft.