Being in the water with other surfers comes with responsibilities and following a proper surf etiquette will keep everyone safe, prevent conflicts, and ensure that the vibes stay positive.
Every surfer, irrespective of their level, is expected to follow the rules of the lineup!
Closest to the peak? You have the wave.
Further outside? You also have priority over the inside.
Never drop in or snake — it’s dangerous and kills the good vibes!
Below is what you need to know to ride with respect, awareness, and confidence:
1. Priority: Who Has the Wave?
The most important surf etiquette in surfing is that:
The surfer closest to the peak has priority.
The peak is where the wave breaks first. If you’re closer to that takeoff point, the wave is yours.
There’s also the outside rule — the surfer further out (who has been waiting longer) often gets priority too. Respecting this keeps the flow smooth and avoids dangerous situations.
In short: don’t paddle for a wave that clearly belongs to someone else!
2. Don’t Drop In
Dropping in means taking off on a wave while another surfer is already riding it.
It’s dangerous, disrespectful, and one of the quickest ways to kill the vibe in the lineup.
Before you go, always:
- Look left/right
- Make sure no one is already up and riding
If someone is going, pull back and wait for your turn – Unless it’s a friend 🤭
3. Don’t Snake
Snaking happens when a surfer paddles around another person to steal priority.
It’s sneaky, unnecessary, and creates tension.
Good surf etiquette means:
- Stay in your spot in the lineup
- Wait for your turn
- Respect others position
Everyone gets more waves when the lineup is cooperative, not competitive!
4. Paddle Wide
When paddling back out, never paddle into the path of a surfer riding the wave.
Instead:
- Paddle into the whitewater
- Stay on the shoulder side
- Avoid crossing the open face
This keeps you safe and lets the surfer finish their ride without obstacles.
5. Communicate Your Direction
Simple communication goes a long way:
If you’re going left, call “Left!”
If you’re going right, call “Right!”
This helps avoid collisions when two surfers are paddling for the same wave.
6. Don’t Throw or Lose Your Board
Your surfboard can be dangerous, for you and for people around you!
Never intentionally let go of it — especially in crowded spots. Practice control, hold onto it as much as possible, and keep your leash in good condition.
You can:
- Duck Dive
For shortboards: push the nose down, sink your body, and let the wave roll over you. It keeps your board under control even in bigger sets. - Turtle Roll
For longboards: grab the rails, flip the board upside down, keep it close to you, and let the wave pass. This is the safest way to handle whitewater on larger boards.
7. Respect the Locals
Every surf spot has a community!
Take time to watch the break before paddling in. Don’t paddle straight into the peak and respect the rhythm of the people who surf there regularly.
Give respect first — and you’ll usually receive it back.
8. Respect the Environment
Surfing is more than a sport — it’s a relationship with nature. Because of that, respecting the environment is part of good surf etiquette.
Imsouane’s beauty is a big part of why surfers return again and again, and protecting it helps keep the magic alive.
Here’s how you can make a difference:
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Pick up your trash — and if possible, pick up one extra piece you find on the beach.
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Use ocean-safe sunscreen to avoid damaging the marine ecosystem.
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Respect wildlife — don’t chase birds, seals, or marine animals.
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Reduce plastic use by bringing reusable water bottles and bags.
By taking small actions, you help protecting the waves, beaches, and ocean life!
9. Join a Surf Camp
Want to feel at home in the lineup? Our surf camp is here to make it happen.
With coaching, and guided sessions, you’ll learn the rules ²of the waves and even get pictures of your rides to track your progress!
Meet our coaches who will guide and inspire you → grab your spot at our surf camp now !
Surf safe, respect the lineup, and enjoy every wave.
Written by Salma E.
Images by Mayk Wendt