How to learn to surf in Hawaii, the birthplace of surfing. by Austin S. Lin

"Exhilarating amidst a near perfect backdrop of sun, sand, and sea."

How I did it: Quick tips passed to me passed to you:


[] Stand up straight as soon as you can--don't worry about adjusting your balance until after you've stood up.  Just like getting up from the dinner table after your meal.

[] As longboarding is about launching yourself beach-ward, keep your eye on the coastline ahead of you--don't look down, freak out about reefs, obsess or overanalyze your stance.

[] Limber up your shoulder muscles before hand and get ready to whip your back and shoulders into shape.

[] Paddling out only seems futile against the Waikiki tides.  You really are moving..really.

Lessons & tips:

My reco is to go for a group lesson rather than private lesson as you get roughly the same quality of instruction.

Afterwards, don't give up just yet. Rent some board-time and continue your surf session until the tiki torches are on and it's time for dinner (just don't forget to wear sunblock).  It does take plenty of work to get comfortable and get your motor memory used to the act, so aspire toward's the O'Neill Surfing brand tagline: "First In. Last Out."

More fledgling surf-adventuring at Austin S. Lin Surfing

Resources: Thanks to Hans Hedemann Surf School - Waikiki!


1 person found this helpful
 

Apr 13, 2011, 01:12PM PDT | 2 comments | 4 cheers


Comments:

mrsschapiro trying to be like pure sunshine

Cool! I was thinking about learning to surf in Hawaii too

Apr 13, 2011, 04:12PM PDT | Respond to this

Austin S. Lin

Definitely!

Totally worth doing—-if you get to be out this way, even for just a couple of days like I lucked out on, it’s a great way to combine history, tradition, sport, and breathtaking scenery all in one idyllic spot.

Apr 13, 2011, 05:50PM PDT | Respond to this


Austin S. Lin has gotten 4 cheers on this entry.

 

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