Photo by: July Brenda Gonzales Callapaza

Surfing isn’t just a sport or a pastime; it’s a lifestyle. It is far more than just riding waves; it’s a way of life. If you are new to the surfing world, you will quickly find that there is much more to this culture than just jumping on a board. The surfing culture is a new lifestyle involving art, music, and much more. Today, we will explore the different aspects of the surfing culture you should know about to join this community.

The surfing culture is heavily influenced by music. From Jack Johnson to The Beach Boys, the music you will find in surfing is about carefree lyrics and catchy melodies. Some popular genres in the surfing world include reggae, indie, and acoustic music.

Art is also a significant aspect of the surfing world. You’ll find murals and paintings in many surfing towns worldwide. Surfboards that are artistically customized are popular with surfers. Surfboard art often mirrors the culture and lifestyle. Additionally, the culture of DIY also extends to surfboard hand-shaping, board art, and repair, making it as much about the process as the final product.

In the surfing world, it’s not just about surfing waves. The culture is also about sustainable living, being environmentally conscious, and finding ways to live in balance with the environment. Surfers are often sustainability enthusiasts, with initiatives on surfing or beach cleanups, awareness through their art, or purchasing eco-friendlier options in their daily life. With the support of some surf brands and organizations, many surfers are dedicating themselves to becoming stewards of the ocean and making conscious choices.

Surfing is a sport with a close-knit community. There is something special about the surfing environment that attracts and builds relationships among surfers. Communities exist in every corner of the world, from beginner surfers to professional surfers. There is a surf culture for everyone between the different surf camps, eco-friendly resorts, and surf schools.

Let’s not forget the specific to the surf culture. Words such as shred (to surf well), stoked (to express excitement), gnarly (to refer to a wave or any other situation that is dangerous or challenging), and many more. If you’re new to the world of surfing, you’ll not only have to learn how to ride a wave, but you’ll also need to learn surfing slang to fit in with the culture ; )

Surfing isn’t merely a sport; it’s an entire culture that involves art, music, and much more. If you’re looking to join the surfing community, then you need to embrace the feel-good vibe that comes with it. So grab your surfboard, hop on a wave, and immerse yourself in the surfing lifestyle. Doing so will inevitably ignite a newfound passion and open you to a new world of opportunities. And who knows, you may find that the surfing culture perfectly fits you.