Hi Sofia,

I felt the same about surfing – I started out in Cape Town, where the water was freezing and crowded with beginners. I felt much more comfortable trying again in Costa Rica where the beach was huge (so you’re never on top of other people) and the sea was really warm. I’d suggest trying it out with an instructor who can make you feel more confident and comfortable. It’s very unlikely that you’ll get anywhere close to drowning as a beginner, but there is the chance that you can get smacked in the face with your board – I’ve been hit on the head a few times and my friend fell flat on her face and you know what? It’s not that bad. You have an egg on your head or a bruise, which goes away in a few days. The thrill of surfing and the stoke you get totally make it all worth it! Good luck and hope you can motivate yourself to get out there!

Sarah

Thanks Wayne!

I’ve just discovered your blog/website and its amazing!! Such fantastic photography skills, and amazing locations. Congratulations!
I just read your post on surfing. I, too, wanted to learn how to surf. Its always been one of those things I would love to do but was never brave enough. I’m from Portugal, where there are some of the best waves to catch in the world (we’ve had the biggest waves like 2 years in a row or something), so I have no real excuse, but the water is freezing and I’m a such a scardy cat! I just hate the thought of being smacked in the face by the board, or semi-drowning or something. Any tips on how to actually get in the water? I still don’t know if I’ll do it! ahh!