HOW NOT
TO BE A
KOOKSome old-timers don’t sufer
newbies lightly. They call clue-
less newcomers kooks. “If you
are aware of your surroundings
and you’re nice, you won’t get in
trouble,” says Senese. That said,
many of the rules are there to
keep everyone safe, so it’s best to
be aware before you head out.
SURF RULE
NO. 1
The rider has the right
of way.
When heading out to the
lineup, paddle around the area
where people are riding waves
in toward the beach. It’s your
responsibility to avoid riders.
SURF RULE
NO. 2
Don’t ditch your board.
If you let go of your board, it
could hit you or someone else.
SURF RULE
NO. 3
Don’t drop in.
The person nearest a wave’s
peak, or who has been waiting
the longest, has priority. Let-
ting them have the wave helps
everyone avoid collisions.
SURF RULE
NO. 4
Face the horizon.
That’s where the waves are
coming from. Duh.