Beginner Surf Struggles and How to Crush Them
Let’s be real: surfing looks cool, but starting out? It can feel like a total mess. You’re nervous, awkward, maybe a little scared… and that’s exactly where you’re supposed to be.
At Salty Chicas, we often hear “I don’t think I can do this” to “OMG I JUST RODE A WAVE!” So if you’re standing on the shore wondering if surfing is for you—this is your sign. You’re not alone. And yes, you can do it.
Here are some of the most common beginner surf struggles—and how to ride right through them.
“I’m scared I’ll look silly”
Oh hey, imposter syndrome. This one hits hard. The truth? Every single surfer starts out looking (and feeling) awkward. That girl gliding effortlessly across the wave? She had a wipeout reel of her own once.
The fix: let go of how it looks and focus on how it feels. Progress over perfection, always.
“I can’t even stand up”
Spoiler alert: no one does on day one. Standing up takes practice, balance, and yes—some very ungraceful wipeouts. It's part of the journey.
The fix: talk to your coach, ask for tips, and celebrate every effort. The moment you stand? Pure magic.
“The ocean kind of scares me”
Totally normal. The ocean is wild, unpredictable, and massive—but here’s the twist: you don’t have to conquer it. You just have to meet it where you are.
The fix: stick to the white water, learn how to fall safely, and remember: your fear means you respect the ocean. That’s powerful.
“I keep wiping out”
Good. That means you're doing it right. Wipeouts are part of the story. No wipeouts = no trying = no learning.
The fix: fall, laugh, paddle back out. Repeat. You’re not failing—you’re leveling up.
“Everyone else is better than me”
Comparison is a confidence killer. Surfing isn’t a competition, it’s a connection—to the ocean, your body, and the badass chicas around you.
The fix: cheer others on and focus on your own wave. You’re not behind. You’re right on time.
Confidence isn’t built in comfort
It’s built in salty wipeouts, shaky pop-ups, and choosing to try again.
Every time you show up, you grow. And we’ll be right there cheering for you.
Ready to surf IRL?
Join us for a Salty Chicas retreat — made for beginners, powered by confidence, and filled with fun.
We’ve got the boards, the coaching, the community, and the beachside vibes. All we’re missing? You.
Book your retreat now → Your wave (and your glow-up) is waiting.
Been here before? We’ve got something for you.
Our returning chicas get €100 off their next trip—because once is never enough.
Thinking of coming with a friend?
Book together and you’ll both get €50 off. More fun, more memories, more waves.
Let’s do this. See you on the beach!
