9 Must-Know Solo Surfing Safety Hacks

Ah, solo surfing—just me, the ocean, and my board. There’s something incredibly freeing about paddling out alone, no distractions, just the raw power of nature and my trusty board. But let’s face it, solo surfing is not something you can take lightly. While it’s an exhilarating experience, it requires a level of responsibility and awareness that I’ve learned the hard way. Surfing alone means you're not just your own wave-riding hero—you’re also your own lifeguard. That's why, before I even think about catching a wave, safety is at the top of my list. If you’re planning on hitting the waves solo, here are 9 must-know safety hacks that have kept me safe (and sane) over the years.

Hack #1: The Buddy System—Even When You're Alone

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “I’m going solo today—what’s the point of the buddy system?” Trust me, I get it. The idea of paddling out alone, free from any distractions, is one of the best feelings in the world. You’ve got the ocean all to yourself, the rhythm of the waves syncing with your breath—it’s pure bliss. But here's the reality: solo surfing requires a level of preparation and foresight that’s easy to overlook. And that’s where the buddy system comes in.

I’m not talking about having a surf partner tagging along with you out in the water. You don’t need someone to share waves with, but you do need someone who knows where you are and what your plans are. A simple text or phone call can make a world of difference in case something goes wrong. It’s easy to think you’re invincible out there, but the ocean is unpredictable, and emergencies can happen when you least expect them.

This small bit of communication goes a long way in making sure I’m not just another solo surfer who’s gone off the radar. It’s almost like having a built-in support system without a second person on the waves. It’s one less thing to worry about and a smart habit that could one day make all the difference.

Even the best surfers can get into trouble. Whether it’s a rogue wave, an unexpected injury, or simply losing track of time, having someone who knows your plans and can raise the alarm if needed is a simple but incredibly effective safety measure. So next time you head out, don’t skip this step—it’s one of the easiest ways to keep your solo surfing adventures safe and stress-free.

Hack #2: Perfecting the Pre-Surf Warm-Up

I’ll admit, I used to skip the warm-up. When the waves are perfect, who has the time to stretch, right? But I’ve learned the hard way that skipping it is asking for trouble. A proper warm-up isn’t just about riding better—it’s about preventing injury. I’ve had my share of pulled muscles, and trust me, you don’t want to deal with that mid-session.

Now, I always start with a bit of light cardio—just a quick jog or jumping jacks to get the blood flowing. Then, I focus on stretching my back, shoulders, and legs, as they do most of the work when I’m paddling or popping up on the board. I stretch my shoulders, twist my back, and make sure to loosen up my legs with lunges and hamstring stretches.

The difference it makes is night and day. A good warm-up doesn’t just help me avoid injury—it also helps me ride waves more fluidly and confidently. So next time, take a few extra minutes to stretch. Your body will thank you, and your surf session will be that much better.

Hack #3: Know Your Limits

Here’s a lesson I had to learn the hard way: don’t chase the biggest wave. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the ocean, especially when the waves are big and beautiful. When you’re out there on your own, there’s a part of you that wants to prove you’re capable of handling the toughest waves. I’ve been there—standing on the shore, looking at those towering waves, and thinking, “I’ve got this.” But I’ve also learned that pushing yourself beyond your limits can lead to dangerous situations.

There have been plenty of moments when I thought I could handle a huge wave, only to realize halfway through that I was completely in over my head. One time, I paddled out to what I thought was a manageable set, but as I got deeper into the water, I started questioning my decision. The waves were bigger than I anticipated, and my heart was pounding. As I tried to catch one, I ended up wiped out, tossed around by the current. Luckily, I wasn’t hurt, but that experience taught me just how quickly things can turn. It was a humbling reminder that the ocean is far more powerful than I am.

Knowing my limits—both physically and mentally—has been one of the most important safety lessons I’ve learned over the years. Physical limits are obvious: if I’m too tired, if my muscles are sore, or if I know I haven’t been paddling as strong lately, it’s smart to listen to my body and choose more manageable waves. But mental limits are just as important. Surfing requires focus and awareness of the conditions around you. If I’m distracted, anxious, or just not feeling in the right mindset, it’s better to sit one out. You can’t perform at your best if your mind isn’t fully engaged.

I’ve also learned that it’s okay to walk away from a session when things aren’t lining up. I’m not out there trying to prove anything—I’m just trying to have a good, safe time. Surfing solo means taking control of your own safety. I’ve had to come to terms with the fact that some days, the waves are too big, the conditions are too rough, or my body just isn’t in the best shape to tackle what’s in front of me. And that’s okay. It’s part of the sport, and it’s what keeps me coming back to the ocean, session after session.

Knowing when to take a step back and choosing conditions that match my skill level has been crucial to staying safe while surfing solo. It’s all about finding that balance between pushing yourself and respecting the boundaries of your abilities. The ocean will always be there, and there will always be another wave to catch. But for me, the key to a great surfing experience is knowing when to paddle back in and wait for a better opportunity.

Hack #4: Choose Your Surf Spot Wisely

Let me tell you something: not all surf spots are created equal. I’ve learned this the hard way—through a mix of naivety, overconfidence, and sometimes sheer bad luck. When you’re looking at a beach with crystal-clear waters and waves that look like they’re made for surfing, it’s easy to think it’s all smooth sailing. But appearances can be deceiving. Some surf spots come with hidden dangers that aren’t immediately obvious to the untrained eye.

Whether it’s shallow reefs that could snap your board in an instant, strong rip currents that can drag you out further than you’d like, or unpredictable weather that can turn a calm day into a stormy nightmare, there’s a lot to consider when picking a spot to surf. I can’t stress enough how important it is to take a few minutes—before you paddle out—to assess the conditions. It’s easy to get excited when you see perfect waves rolling in, but knowing the layout of the surf spot and what dangers might be lurking beneath the surface is crucial for staying safe.

One of the things I’ve made a habit of is checking the surf report before I even head to the beach. I look at the wave heights, wind conditions, and whether the tides are favorable. The surf report isn’t just for the pros; it’s for everyone. It gives me a heads-up about what the conditions are likely to be, so I know whether the waves are within my skill level or if I should be looking for another spot. I also pay attention to the local tide chart. Some surf spots change drastically depending on whether it’s high or low tide, and if you’re not familiar with the spot, that’s a mistake you don’t want to make.

And then there’s the more unpredictable part of the equation: the actual surf spot itself. I’ve surfed spots that look idyllic from a distance, but when you get up close, you realize there’s a reef just below the surface, or the currents are stronger than you thought. That’s why if I’m unfamiliar with a spot, I always ask a local or a lifeguard about what to expect. Locals have invaluable insight—they know the quirks of the waves, the best times to surf, and any hidden dangers I might not be aware of. For example, in Panama, I remember hearing from a local surfer about a spot called Playa Venao—a spot that’s gorgeous and attracts surfers from around the world. But they also warned me about how the rip currents can get pretty intense there, especially after heavy rain. Without that insider knowledge, I might’ve paddled out, unaware of how the conditions were shifting.

There’s also something about local surf spots that I’ve come to appreciate: the rhythm of the waves and the way they break can change from one day to the next. This is particularly true at places like Santa Catalina, where the waves can look easy to ride one day, but the next, they’re larger and more powerful than expected. In cases like that, I’ll either adjust my expectations or find another spot that better matches my abilities for the day. Surfing in unfamiliar places means learning to listen to the land and the ocean. You might think you’ve got everything under control, but it’s a lesson I learned the hard way: the ocean has a way of humbling you.

Another piece of advice: never ignore the weather forecast. I once went out at Morrillo Beach, a lesser-known but absolutely breathtaking spot in Panama, during a calm and sunny morning. The surf was perfect, the water was warm, and I was feeling good about the session ahead. But as the day went on, the conditions shifted unexpectedly. The winds picked up, the waves became more unpredictable, and a storm rolled in out of nowhere. By the time I realized the weather was changing, I was way too far out from shore. The paddle back was a struggle, and I vowed to never again let my excitement cloud my judgment. Morrillo Beach is beautiful, but as I learned the hard way, its remote location can make it tricky when the weather turns. Now, I always check the forecast—no exceptions.

Hack #5: Stay Visible—Bright Gear for the Win

I’ve always been a fan of dark, sleek wetsuits, but I quickly realized that visibility is key. When you’re out there alone, you need to be seen. I make it a point to wear bright, neon colors or a wetsuit with high-contrast colors that pop against the waves. It’s a simple hack, but it’s one of the most important for safety. If I’m ever in trouble or need help, being visible to other surfers or lifeguards is absolutely essential. Even my board gets the bright treatment—a neon leash, a brightly colored board. It's a small detail, but it can make a huge difference when it comes to staying safe.

Hack #6: Surf With a Leash—Even in Shallow Waters

I’ll be the first to admit it: I’ve never been one to skip out on wearing a leash, even when the waves are small or I’m surfing in the shallows. Some people might think it's overkill, especially when the conditions seem mellow, but for me, it’s a non-negotiable part of my surf setup. The leash isn’t just a piece of gear—it’s a lifeline. Surfing without a leash, even in shallow waters, feels like tempting fate. I’ve seen it happen too many times—someone wiping out on a small wave, their board drifting away, leaving them scrambling to get back to shore. I don’t take that risk.

Hack #7: Stay Aware of the Ocean’s Mood

The ocean is never static—it’s always shifting, changing, and moving in ways that can be hard to predict. Over the years, I’ve learned that staying aware of the ocean’s mood is one of the most important skills I’ve developed as a surfer. Before I even think about paddling out, I take a moment to really observe the water. I don’t just look at the waves and get excited about how perfect they might be; I watch how the ocean behaves. I look for signs of rip currents, shifting tides, and even subtle changes in weather.

Rip currents are sneaky little monsters—they don’t announce themselves, and they can quickly drag you out further than you want to be. I’ve been caught in one before, and believe me, it’s no fun trying to fight your way back to shore when you don’t have the energy to spare. That’s why I always make sure to check for signs that rip currents might be forming, especially if the tide is changing or if I’m in a spot that’s known for strong currents. Rip currents don’t always look dangerous on the surface, but they can quickly turn a calm session into a battle.

Another thing I’ve learned over time is to trust my instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, whether it’s the way the waves are breaking or the way the water feels beneath me, I listen to that gut feeling. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the waves, but the ocean doesn’t give second chances if you ignore it. I might be tempted to paddle out in what looks like ideal conditions, but if something feels off, I know it’s time to take a step back. The ocean has a way of humbling you, and I’ve learned that sometimes the safest thing is to just wait and observe a little longer before making a move.

The ocean might look calm and inviting, but it’s also incredibly powerful and unpredictable. Even the most seasoned surfers know that the conditions can change in the blink of an eye—one minute, you’re cruising on perfect waves, and the next, the tide shifts or a storm rolls in. Being aware of the ocean’s mood helps me stay prepared for whatever comes my way. Whether it’s a shift in the weather or the swell unexpectedly picking up, I’ve found that reading the water and staying attuned to the natural rhythm of the ocean is the key to avoiding trouble.

In the end, the ocean is both beautiful and powerful, and recognizing its mood is my way of respecting it. I’ve learned to stay calm, trust my gut, and always check the conditions before I paddle out—because once you're in the water, there’s no turning back. Staying aware of the ocean’s mood is a skill that has saved me more times than I can count, and it’s one I’ll continue to rely on for every solo surf session.

Hack #8: Safety Gear Isn't Just for Beginners

This one might come as a surprise, but I swear by it: wearing extra safety gear is a smart move for anyone, not just beginners. I used to be that surfer who scoffed at the idea of wearing a life jacket or helmet. I thought those were only for the newbies or the extreme surfers out there pushing the limits. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Over time, and especially as I’ve spent more time surfing solo, I’ve learned that a little extra protection can go a long way in ensuring my safety—and peace of mind.

A life jacket might seem like overkill when the waves aren’t big, but believe me, it’s something I now take seriously. The ocean can be unpredictable, and sometimes the waves aren’t the only thing you need to worry about. If I wipe out and get knocked off my board, I could easily be disoriented, especially in choppy waters or when I’m further from shore. A life jacket can keep me afloat in those moments when I’m struggling to get back on my board or fighting against a rip current. It's easy to underestimate the power of a good life jacket, but when you’re out there on your own, the added buoyancy can be the difference between getting back on your feet and getting swept away.

Similarly, a helmet is something I used to brush off as unnecessary—until I learned the hard way how important it can be. Surfing is a sport that involves a lot of quick movements, and with that comes the potential for accidents. Hitting my head on my board or even on the ocean floor is something I never thought would happen to me, but after a few near-misses and a minor injury, I’ve come to appreciate how much protection a helmet can offer. When the surf gets rough and the waves are bigger, the risk of hitting your head increases. Whether it’s during a wipeout, getting knocked off your board by a rogue wave, or even while duck diving, a helmet can protect one of your most vulnerable spots—your head.

Now, don’t get me wrong: I’m not suggesting you need to wear full-on safety gear every single time you hit the water. There’s definitely a time and place for light, free surfing, and I still love the feeling of hitting the waves with just my board. But there are days—especially when I know the surf is going to be wild or the conditions are unpredictable—when I don’t hesitate to throw on a life jacket or helmet. Those are the days when I’d rather be safe than sorry. The ocean can throw curveballs, and I’ve learned to err on the side of caution when it comes to my own safety.

I’ve realized that safety gear isn’t about being a beginner or being scared—it’s about being smart. Over the years, I’ve come to respect the power of the ocean more and more. Even the most experienced surfers can get caught in tough situations. For me, wearing safety gear is just part of being prepared. It’s not about being overly cautious, it’s about making sure that I’m doing everything I can to keep myself safe, so I can keep surfing for years to come. When the waves get bigger, the conditions get gnarlier, or the ocean’s just in a mood, that extra layer of protection gives me the confidence I need to ride with peace of mind. It’s a small step that makes a big difference—and I’ll always keep it in mind for those days when I’m venturing out solo.

Hack #9: The Post-Surf Check-In

After a solid surf session, the last thing I want to do is just pack up and head home. Trust me, I used to do that all the time—finish riding the waves, throw my board in the car, and just leave. But over the years, I’ve realized how important post-surf check-ins are, not just for my safety, but also for my recovery. It’s easy to forget that surfing is physically demanding, and while the thrill of riding waves can be exhilarating, it can also take a toll on your body.

The first thing I do when I’m out of the water is take a few minutes to cool down. I don’t rush out of the beach, especially if the waves have been especially intense or if I’ve been surfing for a while. Cooling down is a great way to lower my heart rate gradually, and it also helps my muscles start to relax after all that exertion. This simple step prevents that sudden, post-surf crash that I’ve felt too many times when I’ve skipped it.

Next up—stretching. This is crucial, especially for my shoulders, back, and legs, which do most of the work when I’m paddling and popping up. I spend a few minutes doing deep stretches, focusing on the areas that get tight after a long session. Stretching not only helps to reduce soreness but also increases flexibility and keeps me injury-free. I’ve had my share of muscle cramps and tight hips from not stretching properly, so I’ve learned to make this a non-negotiable part of my routine.

Hydration is just as important as stretching. Surfing dehydrates me more than I realize, especially on hot days. I always make sure to drink water right after I get out of the surf to rehydrate and replenish the fluids I’ve lost. It helps me recover faster, keep my energy up, and ensures I’m ready for the next session—whether that’s later in the day or the next time I hit the waves.

But it’s not just about my body; I also make sure to check in with the person I told about my surf plans earlier in the day. It’s part of that “buddy system” I mentioned before, even if they weren’t there with me on the water. Letting someone know I’m safe and off the water gives peace of mind, especially after a solo session. Whether it’s just a quick text or a brief call, it ensures that someone knows I’ve finished my session and that I’m safe. This simple step adds an extra layer of safety and responsibility, just in case something went wrong that I didn’t notice.

Conclusion: Surfing Solo, But Smart

Surfing alone is one of the most liberating and rewarding experiences I can think of, but it’s also something that requires a great deal of responsibility. By following these 9 safety hacks, I’ve managed to keep my solo surf sessions thrilling, fulfilling, and—most importantly—safe. The ocean will always be there, calling to me, but I know that I need to respect it, understand it, and take steps to stay safe. Surfing solo is an adventure, but with the right precautions, it can be an adventure that