Common Beginner Surfboard Mistakes & How to Fix Them

So, you finally decided to start surfing. Maybe you’re in San Diego, maybe you rented a board down at Pacific Beach or OB, maybe you saw someone glide down a clean little waist-high roller and thought, yeah, I want that feeling too. Good call. Surfing is addicting, frustrating, humbling… all of it. But here’s the thing nobody tells you when you pick up your first board: the learning curve is full of silly, avoidable mistakes. And honestly, most of us make them. I made almost all of them.

Let’s talk through some of the most common beginner surfboard mistakes I see around here in San Diego—and what you can actually do about them. Think of this as me buying you a coffee after a surf and spilling the stuff I wish someone had told me earlier.

Mistake #1: Starting Too Small, Too Soon

It’s tempting, right? You see those short little performance boards all the locals rip on and think, that’s surfing. But as a beginner? Wrong tool. A lot of people pick up boards that are way too short, way too thin, and way too twitchy. You’ll paddle like crazy, miss most waves, and when you finally stand up, it’ll feel like balancing on a bar of soap.

Fix: Go big. Longboard big. Foamie big. A beginner surfboard in San Diego usually means something soft-top, around 8–9 feet, wide and forgiving. You’ll catch more waves, which means more practice, which means faster progress. Doesn’t look “cool”? Who cares. Progress is cool.

Mistake #2: Wax Crimes

I swear, I’ve seen beginner boards in San Diego either caked with an inch of wax (like frosting on a cake) or completely bare and slippery. Both are… not great. Too much wax and your feet stick awkwardly, too little and you’ll slide off the second you pop up.

Fix: Apply a light base coat and then a top layer in little cross-hatched bumps. Don’t overthink it. And keep a wax comb handy, especially when the sun softens things up. (Oh, and use the right temperature wax—San Diego water is usually in that cool-to-warm range, so don’t grab the tropical stuff unless you’re planning a Hawaii trip.)

Mistake #3: Ignoring Volume

A lot of beginners think surfboard length is the only thing that matters. But volume—how much float a board has—is just as important. Too little volume and you’ll sink, paddle slower, and get frustrated.

Fix: Check the leaderboards (pun intended) on volume calculators online, or talk to a local shaper. Seriously, surfboard building in San Diego is a whole scene. The shapers here geek out about volume, rails, rocker, all of it, and they’ll happily set you straight. Even if you’re shopping custom surfboards online, most good websites will ask your weight, height, and skill level to match you up with something that floats properly.

Mistake #4: Nose Diving (The Classic “Pearl”)

If you’ve ever seen someone pop up and instantly plant the nose of their board into the water like a shovel, you know the pearl. Happens all the time.

Fix: Two things—position and timing. Slide yourself a little further back on the board so the nose lifts. And when paddling into waves, look up and arch your back slightly to keep weight off the nose. Timing helps too—don’t paddle for the wave too late. Start early, get momentum, and then commit.

Mistake #5: Carrying Your Board Like It’s a Toy

This one is more of a vibe thing, but I see beginners dragging their boards nose-first on the ground, bumping into cars, even clobbering other surfers in the parking lot. It’s not just awkward, it trashes your board.

Fix: Tuck it under your arm with the fins facing forward, or get a board bag if you’re walking longer distances. Treat your board with respect—it’ll treat you better in the water.

Mistake #6: Forgetting About Waves

Honestly, the board is only half the equation. You can have the perfect beginner surfboard in San Diego, but if you paddle straight into double-overhead sets at Black’s, you’re in for a beating.

Fix: Start mellow. San Diego has a ton of beginner-friendly breaks—Tourmaline, La Jolla Shores, Mission Beach. Gentle rollers, sandy bottoms, and friendly crowds. Learn the basics there before stepping up.

A Quick Story (Because Stories Stick)

I remember when I bought my first “real” board—some 6’2” pointy shortboard off Craigslist because I thought it looked pro. Took it out at PB on a waist-high day. I maybe caught one wave in two hours, and I pearled so hard I got sand in my ears. The next week, I borrowed my buddy’s 8’ foamie. Totally different experience. I actually rode waves. Stood up. Had fun. That’s when it clicked: it’s not about the board looking cool, it’s about you getting time on your feet.

The Bigger Picture

You’ll make mistakes. Everyone does. Some of them are part of the process—you kind of have to pearl a few times before you get it. But fixing these small things early (right board size, proper wax, decent wave choice) will save you months of frustration.

And hey, if you get obsessed—and you probably will—you might even start geeking out about custom surfboards online or wander into one of the shaping bays here in San Diego to watch the masters work. Surfboard building in San Diego is an art form, and once you see how much love goes into each board, you’ll treat yours differently too.

At the end of the day, just remember: the best beginner surfboard in San Diego is the one that gets you smiling in the water. Don’t stress the details too much. Avoid the common pitfalls, learn from your wipeouts, and keep paddling back out. The rest… well, that’s surfing.

Sizing Guide: Length, Width, and Thickness for Intermediate Surfers

Discovering the Best Surfboard For Intermediate surfers may seem daunting. Once having crossed the beginner stage, most surfers begin to understand that the board chosen plays a gigantic role in performance, growth, and overall enjoyment on the water. The proper ratio of length, width, and thickness is what creates an ordinary ride versus an unforgettable experience. If you're in the intermediate range—catching waves regularly and beginning to practice turns—this article will give you an idea of what board dimensions are most important to consider when selecting your next board.

Why Board Dimensions Matter

All surfboards are constructed with three fundamental measurements: length, width, and thickness. These aren't merely figures—they determine how your board paddles, how fast it catches waves, and how it handles once you're standing up and riding. For intermediate surfers, these specifics matter particularly. You need stability enough to continue improving, yet responsiveness in order to begin doing maneuvers.

If the board is too large, you won't be able to advance past novice surfing. Too small, and you'll catch waves too easily or tumble over. Getting that just-right balance is the secret to achieving the Best Surfboard For Intermediate development.

Length: The Sweet Spot

A surfboard's length plays a direct role in how well you're able to paddle into waves and how much control you retain when standing.

Longer boards (7'0" and longer): They are more straightforward to paddle and catch waves, but they can be heavy under your feet and less responsive. As an intermediate that still desires stability, an enjoyable board in the 7'0"–7'6" size range is usually a good option.

Mid-length boards (6'4"–7'0"): These provide the most ideal compromise between paddle power and control. This is where most intermediate surfers are most at ease as they begin to make turns and gain confidence. 

Shorter boards (under 6'4"): These are more sensitive but need stronger paddling and optimal positioning. Many intermediates are tempted to go short too early. It is advisable to reduce the length gradually.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a board that’s a few inches taller than your height when you’re starting as an intermediate, and then reduce length as you gain skill and confidence.

Width: Stability Meets Performance

Width is what gives you side-to-side stability. Wider boards float better, making it easier to balance, but they can also feel sluggish when you want sharper turns.

20"–21.5" width: Ideal for the intermediate surfer who needs a forgiving platform to stand on. A slight increase in extra width gets more waves under you without sacrificing control.

Width less than 20": Narrower outline boards are faster rail-to-rail and more high-performance feeling, but harder to balance on in chop or congested conditions.

For the average intermediate surfer, a board measuring approximately 20–21 inches in width is the optimal compromise between comfort and ease of turning.

Thickness: The Volume Factor

Thickness regulates how much foam is within your board and means float. When combined with width and length, thickness defines the volume of your surfboard—the most significant measurement for correlating with your skill level.

Thicker boards (2.75"–3"): Perfect for effortless paddling and added buoyancy, which will assist in smaller waves. But too much thickness makes a board less sensitive.

Thinner boards (less than 2.5"): Give you more response and control, but feel exhausting to paddle and don't support you as well when floating if you're still figuring wave positioning.

As an intermediate, shoot for sufficient thickness to hold you up without compromising maneuverability. 2.5"–2.75" is a good middle ground for most surfers.

Matching Your Surfboard to Your Goals

The Best Surfboard For Intermediate surfers is not just a matter of size but also of what you are looking to do in the water.

If you're emphasizing catching more waves: A bit longer and wider board with increased thickness will provide plenty of volume and wave numbers.

If you're trying to develop turns and speed: A shorter and narrower board with moderate thickness will allow you to transition into tighter maneuvers.

If you need versatility: A hybrid or a funboard at mid-length can perform on small, mushy days as well as clean, shoulder-high days.

Your weight, fitness, and local surf conditions will also have an effect on your decision. Heavier riders or those in weaker waves tend to prefer more volume, whereas lighter riders or punchy beach breaks can get smaller and thinner.

Looking at New Boards

The marketplace is brimming with New Surfboards For Sale that are specifically targeted toward intermediates. Numerous brands have boards designed for progression in mind, with shapes that span the gap between beginner foamies and high-performance shortboards. When shopping for options, don't simply follow trends—read the dimensions closely and think about how they suit your level and at-home waves.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the Ideal Surfboard For Intermediate surfers is a matter of balancing stability and performance. Length provides you with paddle power, width stabilizes you, and thickness decides how much float you'll have. Individually, they define how you'll continue to develop as a surfer.

Don't be in a hurry to the thinnest, shortest, or narrowest board simply because it appears to be cutting-edge. Rather, choose a board that boosts your confidence, makes you catch more waves, and progressively enables you to hone your skills. With the proper sizes and a focused emphasis on improvement, you not only experience more reliable sessions but also gain access to the next level of your surfing journey.

What Makes a Shortboard Ideal for Small Waves?

When the ocean serves up knee-high or waist-high surf, many riders assume it is a day for longboards only. However, with the right design features, a shortboard can perform remarkably well in smaller conditions. Choosing the Best Shortboard For Small Waves is not just about size; it’s about understanding how shape, rocker, rails, volume, and tail design combine to keep speed and flow even when the waves lack power.

In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a shortboard excel in weak surf, why it differs from standard performance boards, and how surfers can match their board choice with conditions to maximize fun.

Volume is Your Best Friend

The first element that sets a small-wave shortboard apart is volume. Traditional shortboards are designed for steep, hollow waves where control matters more than buoyancy. But in small surf, you need help generating speed. A slightly wider, thicker board with extra liters under the chest gives paddling power and helps catch waves earlier.

The Best Shortboard For Small Waves usually has a fuller outline, distributing volume more evenly to keep you gliding across flat sections. This makes the board more forgiving while still allowing performance maneuvers once you’re on the face.

Rocker: Keep it Flat for Speed

Rocker — the curve from nose to tail — has a huge impact on how a board moves through weak waves. A performance shortboard with aggressive rocker excels in steep takeoffs but will feel sticky in small, gutless surf. For small waves, you need a flatter rocker that increases planing surface.

This flatter bottom helps the board build and maintain speed, especially when waves offer little push. It also makes connecting sections easier, so you can link turns instead of stalling in the middle of the ride.

Wider Nose and Tail Designs

Another important feature is outline shape. Boards built for tiny waves often have a wider nose and tail. A wider nose helps with stability during takeoff, while a wider tail creates lift and drive in weaker conditions.

For example, a squash tail or even a swallow tail works well in small waves, providing enough release for turns while holding speed. These subtle design choices turn a sluggish day into a session full of opportunities.

Rail Shape and Responsiveness

Rails are often overlooked, but they play a key role in making a board perform in smaller surf. The Best Shortboard For Small Waves will usually feature slightly fuller rails, which prevent the board from bogging down in soft sections. Softer, more rounded rails help maintain flow, while still being responsive enough to carve.

Pairing the right rails with added volume and flatter rocker ensures the board remains lively in conditions that normally limit maneuverability.

The Role of Fins in Small Waves

Fins are like the engine of a shortboard. For smaller surf, a thruster setup with slightly smaller fins or even a twin plus trailer can give the looseness needed to generate speed quickly. Some riders experiment with quad setups for added drive down the line.

Choosing the right fin template allows you to maximize your board’s potential, especially when the waves themselves aren’t offering much.

Performance Surfboard vs Small-Wave Shortboard

Many surfers confuse a Performance Surfboard with a groveler-style shortboard. While both are designed for speed and maneuverability, they serve different purposes. A standard performance shortboard thrives in overhead, punchy waves where precision matters. A small-wave shortboard, on the other hand, sacrifices some of that fine-tuned control in exchange for speed and ease in weak surf.

Think of it this way: a performance board is like a race car built for the track, while a groveler is like a versatile street car that handles everyday conditions. Both are essential in a well-rounded quiver.

Comparing with a High Performance Longboard

Some surfers prefer a High Performance Longboard when waves are small, and for good reason. Longboards catch waves earlier and provide long, flowing rides. But for surfers who want sharper maneuvers, snaps, and cutbacks, a shortboard designed for small waves delivers a different kind of excitement.

While a longboard encourages drawn-out turns and classic style, the best small-wave shortboards allow progressive surfing in conditions that might otherwise feel limiting. Having both options in your quiver ensures you can adapt to your mood and the day’s conditions.

Why the Best Shortboard For Small Waves Matters

Surfers often underestimate how much fun can be had in knee-high waves with the right equipment. A properly designed board not only increases your wave count but also keeps you sharp when the surf is less than perfect. By mastering small-wave performance, you build techniques that translate into better surfing when conditions improve.

The Best Shortboard For Small Waves is about maximizing potential: wider outlines, flatter rocker, more volume, and smart fin setups. These details make the difference between struggling to catch waves and linking smooth, stylish turns on days most surfers write off.

Final Thoughts

Small waves don’t have to mean boring sessions. With the right shortboard, you can transform weak surf into an opportunity to practice flow, turns, and speed generation. Understanding features like rocker, volume, tail shape, and fin setup will help you choose the board that suits your style.

Whether you prefer the versatility of a Performance Surfboard, the playful glide of a High Performance Longboard, or the agility of the Best Shortboard For Small Waves, the key is to match your board with the day’s conditions. Surfing is about having fun, and the right equipment ensures that even the smallest waves deliver big smiles.

How to Choose the Best Mid Length Surfboard: A Complete Buyer’s Guide for All Skill Levels

When it comes to finding the perfect surfboard, one category has been gaining attention for its versatility, performance, and timeless appeal: the Best Mid Length Surfboard. Mid length boards strike the balance between the easy paddling and stability of a longboard and the maneuverability of a shortboard, making them ideal for a wide range of surfers. Whether you are a beginner looking for a reliable board to progress on, or an experienced rider seeking smooth flow in various conditions, choosing the right mid length can transform your surfing experience.

Understanding What Makes a Mid Length Surfboard Special

A mid length surfboard typically ranges from 6’8” to around 8’0”. Its design provides ample volume for paddling efficiency while still allowing responsive turns. The Best Mid Length Surfboard offers a smooth glide on smaller waves but also holds its own in shoulder-high or overhead surf. Its adaptability means it can become a primary board in your quiver, suitable for point breaks, beach breaks, and even reef setups.

The charm lies in its versatility. Many surfers find that a mid length can replace two or three boards in their lineup because it works across different wave sizes and styles. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to invest in one board that can do it all.

Matching the Board to Your Skill Level

• Beginners: The extra length and volume of a mid length provide stability and make it easier to catch waves early. A rounder nose shape adds forgiveness, while a softer rail helps avoid catching edges.
  
  

• Intermediate Surfers: The Best Mid Length Surfboard allows for improved trimming, carving, and experimenting with different fin setups. It’s a forgiving platform to refine foot placement and flow.
  
  

• Advanced Surfers: Skilled riders can push a mid length in more powerful conditions, using it to draw long lines, link sections, and embrace a more fluid style.
  
  

Choosing the Right Shape and Outline

The shape of a mid length greatly affects performance. Wider outlines provide extra stability and lift, while narrower templates improve control in steeper waves. If you are looking for a classic style and smooth glide, the Retro Twin Fin Fish variation offers a throwback aesthetic with modern refinements. This style blends a fish outline with mid length proportions, delivering exceptional speed down the line and a unique, looser feel.

For those who want a true all-rounder, a balanced egg shape or hybrid mid length is often the most adaptable choice. These shapes allow for both cruising in small surf and controlled turns when the waves pick up.

Understanding Fin Setups

One of the most important aspects of fine-tuning the Best Mid Length Surfboard is selecting the right fin setup. Here are some popular configurations:

• Single Fin: Smooth, classic, and best for drawn-out turns.
  
  

• Twin Fin: Provides speed, looseness, and a playful feel. When paired with quality Twin Fin Surfboard Fins, you can achieve a lively, skate-like performance that’s perfect for small to medium waves.
  
  

• 2+1 Setup: Combines the flow of a single fin with the added drive of small side bites, offering a versatile balance.
  
  

• Quad: Delivers speed and grip, ideal for steeper or faster waves.
  
  

If you enjoy retro styling and flowing carves, the Retro Twin Fin Fish mid length with the right Twin Fin Surfboard Fins can be a game-changer. For more versatility, the 2+1 setup is often the best choice for mixed conditions.

Comparing Mid Lengths to Funboards

The Best Funboard Surfboard and the best mid length share similarities in that they cater to a broad skill range and work well in various wave sizes. However, the mid length tends to offer more refined rail shapes, better glide, and improved turning ability. Funboards are generally targeted at newer surfers, while mid lengths bridge the gap between beginner progression and advanced style. If you want something you can grow into without quickly outgrowing its potential, a mid length is the better investment.

Material and Construction Choices

When selecting the Best Mid Length Surfboard, you’ll need to decide on construction. Traditional polyurethane (PU) boards offer a familiar weight and flex pattern, delivering smooth performance in varied conditions. Epoxy boards, on the other hand, are lighter, more durable, and ideal for those who want extra buoyancy.

Some brands now offer eco-friendly builds using recycled foam, plant-based resins, or sustainably sourced wood. If sustainability matters to you, exploring these options can align your surfboard purchase with your values.

Wave Conditions and Your Local Break

The conditions you surf most often should influence your decision. If your local spot has smaller, softer waves, opt for a fuller outline and extra volume. If you regularly face punchier surf, a slightly narrower mid length with refined rails will help maintain control.

Mid lengths excel at point breaks where you can draw long lines, but they are equally capable at beach breaks when paired with the right fin setup. In bigger surf, they can still perform—especially in the hands of an experienced rider who knows how to harness the board’s speed and stability.

Final Thoughts

The Best Mid Length Surfboard is not just a compromise between longboards and shortboards—it’s a complete category in its own right, offering unique advantages to surfers at every stage. By considering your skill level, preferred wave conditions, shape preferences, and fin setup, you can find a mid length that delivers lasting performance and enjoyment.

If you value versatility, style, and the ability to surf across a variety of conditions, a well-chosen mid length will serve as a cornerstone in your quiver. Whether you are drawn to the classic lines of a Retro Twin Fin Fish, the speed and freedom of quality Twin Fin Surfboard Fins, or simply the well-rounded adaptability of the Best Funboard Surfboard, your ideal mid length is out there—ready to take your surfing to the next level.

Surfboard Shops in San Diego Your Ultimate Guide

 Surfboard Shops in San Diego Your Ultimate Guide's surf culture is legendary—sunny skies, consistent swells, and a thriving surfboard shop scene reflecting decades of local heritage. Here’s a deep dive into the best places to browse, buy, rent, or repair your surf setup:

1. PB Surf Shop (Pacific Beach)

When it opened: 1962
Located right on the Pacific Beach boardwalk, PB Surf Shop isn't just a retail spot—it’s San Diego’s original surf school and rental HQWith more than 60 years of history under owner Randy Strunk, the shop offers everything from foam and fiberglass board rentals to group and private lessons. They even have an outdoor rinse-off shower—perfect for returning from a session. For beginners, this is arguably the most accessible option in the city.

2. South Coast Surf Shop (Multiple Locations)

Established: 1974
With three locations around San Diego, South Coast offers an extensive selection of surfboards (new and used), wetsu

its, apparel, and surf accessories. Their knowledgeable staff and commitment to customer service have earned them a sterling reputation 

3. Bird’s Surf Shed (Bay Park / Morena Blvd)

Style & Vibe: Eclectic surf museum + events space
Owned by lifelong local surfer Eric “Bird” Huffman, Bird’s Surf Shed is famous for its floors‑to‑ceilings surfboards, rotating art shows, and surf film premiers This isn’t just a shop—it’s a cultural hub offering vintage and new boards and surfing gear in a truly unique atmosphere.

4. Mission Surf Shop (Mission Beach, 4320 Mission Blvd)

The original surf shop in Mission Beach, praised for its strong focus on sustainability, rentals, repairs, and local ties Their blend of community outreach, eco‑conscious practices, and a crisp selection makes it a solid choice for all levels of surfers.

5. Mitch’s Surf Shop (Pacific Beach & La Jolla)

Opening year: 1967
A community institution cited by Vogue, Mitch’s delivers good vibes and great service 1. Known for their mellow, fun focus, board selection, apparel, and rentals, Mitch’s is a long-standing staple in the San Diego surf scene.

6. Surf Diva Surf School & Boutique (La Jolla, Avenida De La Playa)

Est. 1996 — Co-founded by Izzy and Coco Tihanyi, Surf Diva became the world's first all‑women surf shop and school It frequently wins "Best Surf Shop" awards in La Jolla. With a full-service shop, variety of boards (short, long, foam) and a strong emphasis on female surf empowerment—it’s a must-visit.

7. Hansen’s Surf Shop (Encinitas, 1105 S Coast Hwy)

Since 1961, Hansen’s has served surfers at the iconic Swami’s break, offering a huge inventory of new and used boards, apparel, and demo gear hey even host sales events around holidays and have a revolving snowboard-style demo carpet—indicating strong ties to the winterboard community.

8. Clairemont Surf Shop (Clairemont, Balboa Ave)

A cherished local haunt since 1976, Clairemont stands out for its helpful staff, quality inventory, and respect among beginners and returning surfers It’s praised for demo setups, friendly vibes, and solid advice—not just sales.

9. Surf Ride (Oceanside / Solana Beach, South Coast Hwy)

Running since 1974, Surf Ride is the go‑to for North County surfers. Known for a vast selection of boards, rentals, camps, and community events, it’s popular with families and folks traveling from San Diego 

10. Used & Second‑hand Surfboard Sources

For budget-conscious or collectors:

• Coconut Pete’s (PB/India St): A Reddit favorite, offering refurbished boards and fair pricing
  
  
  “They have a large selection of fixed‑up used boards, and they are reasonable on the pricing.
  
  
  

• Play It Again Sports, Second Chance (OB), and Clairemont Surf Shop are also credible used‑board vendors
  
  

• The Board Source (Carlsbad): Known for high‑end used boards and honest service
  
  

🗺️ Shop Comparison: Choosing What’s Right for You

Shop

Best For

Highlights

PB Surf Shop

Beginners, lessons, rentals

Beachfront, school-certified staff

South Coast Surf Shop

Extensive selection, quality gear

Multiple branches, rentals, accessories

Bird’s Surf Shed

Culture, vintage boards, events

Art shows, premieres, community vibe

Mission Surf Shop

Rentals, sustainability, repairs

Eco-friendly, board care expertise

Mitch’s Surf Shop

Local legend feel, laid-back style

Clothing, boards, rentals

Surf Diva

All-women lessons + retail

Empowerment, awards, variety

Hansen’s Surf Shop

Swami’s surfers, demo gear

Demo events, sales, big stock

Clairemont Surf Shop

Friendly advice, demos, used boards

Community-focused, helpful staff

Surf Ride

North County surfers & families

Camps, rentals, big selection

Coconut Pete’s (used)

Affordable used/refurbished boards

Fair prices, repairs included

• Looking for first-time purchase guidance? Clairemont Surf Shop gets repeated shout-outs:
  
  
  “Clairemont Surf Shop FTW. One of the oldest surf shops in San Diego.
  
  
  

• Want high-end used boards? Board Source in Carlsbad is excellent, with transparent pricing, refunds, and quality.
  
  

🌊 Tying It All Together

San Diego has something for everyone—from vibrant culture hubs to women's empowerment schools, big demo centers, and cozy neighborhood shops. Whether you're a beginner picking up your first foamie, a collector hunting vintage treasures, or a demo addict chasing that perfect ride, these ten destinations offer what you need.

• Newbies: Go to PB Surf Shop or Surf Diva for lessons, rentals, and solid entry gear.
  
  

• Collectors/Cerveceros: Bird’s Surf Shed and Hansen’s deliver rare finds and demo boards.
  
  

• Local Families & Returners: South Coast, Mission Surf, Clairemont offer consistent, friendly support.
  
  

• Budget-conscious surfers: Coconut Pete’s, Play It Again, Second Chance, Board Source are great for deals and quality used boards.
  
  

📍 Bonus: Nearby Surf Culture Attractions

Check out the California Surf Museum in Oceanside, which presents decades of surf culture, boards, and memorabilia—a must for anyone fascinated by surf history 

🏄 Get Out There!

Solid Surfboards With so many surfers, so many shops—San Diego invites exploration. Don’t hesitate to drop by multiple stores, chat with staff, attend a demo, or take a lesson. Every board has a story, and every shop has a vibe. Let your next wave lead you to a new favorite surfboard spot.