Surfing a Reef Break for the First Time? Here Are the Do’s and Don’ts

Planning a surf trip to Indonesia but you’re slightly apprehensive (see: very nervous) about surfing over coral reef?

You’re not alone.

Many Xanadu guests who’ve surfed before have done so at forgiving sand beach breaks. No sharp coral. No hard ocean floor. No intimidation factor.

That said, the reality of surfing over reef is probably waaay different than what you imagine.

This article is for those who’ve never surfed over a coral reef before and need some guidance.

We guarantee that by the end, you’ll feel more confident and ready to tackle your first reef break!

What is a ‘reef break’

A reef break is a type of surf spot where the waves break over a coral reef or rocky bottom. 

These types of breaks can be found in tropical regions, like Indonesia, Hawaii and Fiji, and are known for producing some of the best waves in the world. 

A few characteristics of reef breaks:

• Waves generally have more power (or ‘push’) than beach breaks
• The shape of the wave is predictable because the ocean floor doesn’t change
• Majority of reef break waves are found in warm-water locations
• Reefs are living ecosystems and should be respected and protected
  

How does it differ from other break types?

Unlike a beach break, which breaks over sand, or a point break, which breaks down a rocky point, a reef break breaks over coral or a coral/rock mix. 

No matter which break type you surf, it’s good to know the basics of surfing safety. 

Here’s how the different surf breaks stack up.

Reef break – Predictable and consistent but requires caution

Reef breaks have a reputation for being more challenging and intimidating, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t accessible to beginners.

We actually find the predictability and consistency of reef breaks to be beneficial for learning and improving surfing skills, as you can better anticipate and time your rides.

There are of course risks associated with reef breaks, but there are risks for all break types. 

So long as you stick to reef breaks that match your skill level (we can help with that!), you’ll quickly fall in love with reef break waves as we have!

Beach break – Forgiving but random and difficult to navigate

Beach breaks, on the other hand, are defined by their sand bottom. This sand bottom is constantly shifting, meaning that the peak or takeoff zone is always moving too.

The randomness of beach breaks can be confusing and frustrating. And don’t even get us started on trying to paddle a longboard to the lineup when there’s no clear channel or gap to make it through the waves!

When small and clean, beach breaks are a forgiving and fun place for beginners to learn, but as the size and power increase, so do the challenges.

Point break – Fun but technically demanding

Point breaks, while also relatively predictable, require a more precise and timed approach to surfing.

You’ll need to understand how to manoeuvre your board in a way that you flow down the wave. Otherwise, due to the way in which point breaks peel in one direction, you’ll risk getting caught inside, colliding with another surfer or ending up too far down the line to catch waves.

Due to the mechanical nature of point breaks, your skill deficiencies will be highlighted. As such it’s best to save point breaks for when you’re a more experienced surfer.

What are the DO’S for surfing your first reef break?

• There’s no need to go full send during your first session. Pick off the smaller waves and slowly build up your confidence and comfort level
• Remember that so long as you’re learning to surf over the appropriate reef break for your skill level, it’s safe and you’ll have an incredible time!
• Check out our article on how to hack your first surf trip – it’s a winner!
• Do listen to your instructor’s advice and take note of where the channel is. The channel is a path in the reef that allows you to paddle out without getting smashed by incoming waves
• Do enter and exit the water with caution. Unlike sand which is soft, coral is sharp so make sure you’re wearing proper surf booties or paddle out from the sand/from a nearby boat
• Watch other surfers and observe the line they take, their timing and any specific techniques they use to navigate the reef break
• Do respect the environment! Coral reefs are delicate ecosystems that provide a home for a diverse range of marine life. Make sure you avoid standing on or touching the coral as much as possible

What are the reef break surfing DON’TS?

• NEVER jump or dive headfirst from your surfboard. If you feel yourself getting caught in the wave, it’s always safer to perform a controlled bail… remembering that you must then cover your head with both hands and try not to penetrate too deep
• Be mindful of other surfers in the water. We know that your focus will most likely be on paddling and popping up, but a quick glance over your shoulder before catching a wave can prevent potential collisions with other surfers
• Tides affect the shallowness of a reef break. Low tide means that the reef is more exposed (i.e. shallow). Never surf a shallow reef break if you’re a beginner. Wait until the tide rises and covers the reef more before attempting to surf it
• Don’t panic if you get caught inside or wipeout. Most reef break waves, and especially those on Lombok, will simply wash you into the deeper section or lagoon behind the reef. Take a few deep breaths, wait for the wave to pass and then calmly paddle back out using the channel indicated
• Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Reef breaks take practice and timing to get used to, so keep at it!

Reef break surfing FAQ

Q. Any local tips for surfing my first reef break?

Ease your way into it. No need to paddle straight to the peak and take off on the first wave that comes your way. Sit on the shoulder. Watch. Wait until the nerves subside and identify the smaller, more manageable waves for you to ride.

Q. Should I get lessons first if I intend on surfing reef breaks?

100%. Proper instruction is so underrated when it comes to surfing. A guide can be the difference between months of struggle and going from beach breaks to reef breaks in under one week. Get a lesson. Learn the fundamentals. Build your confidence and then apply what you’ve learned.

Q. What are the best beginner and intermediate reef breaks on Lombok?

We’re spoiled to have reef breaks for all skill levels in Lombok. You can literally work your way up from friendly and forgiving reef breaks like Gerupuk to pro-level reef breaks like Desert Point. Learn more about surfing Lombok as a beginner.

Q. Is there a specific way to wipe out when surfing reef breaks?

Yes! Try to land with your weight spread out. That’s to say you’ll want your entire body to hit the water at the same time. This way you distribute the impact of hitting the water over your entire body, rather than one specific area, which ensures you don’t penetrate too deep and risk hitting the bottom.

Q. I’m scared of cutting my feet on the coral. Can I wear booties or reef shoes?

Of course. Booties and reef shoes are great for protecting your feet and providing extra grip when navigating a reef break. Just make sure they fit snugly and comfortably, as you don’t want them slipping off or feeling uncomfortable while surfing.

Q. How do channels work and how do I find them? 

Channels are a deep spot usually running next to the reef where you can paddle out without getting caught in the waves breaking on the reef. They’re easily recognisable as they’ll be a spot where there’s less white wash and turbulence. Our legendary instructors and surf guides know Lombok’s reefs like the back of their hand. This means you can simply rely on them to point out channels or take you to the ideal spot depending on your skill level.

Q. How do I know if a reef break is suitable for my skill level? 

Good question! We’ll only ever take you to a surf break that matches your skill level. If you’re alone, however, you should ask around and take note of the dominant skill level of surfers at a particular break. If everyone is on shortboards, getting barrelled and performing advanced turns, it’s probably not the best place for you to paddle out as a beginner. Beginners of a feather flock together, and you’ll find this at Lombok’s more beginner-friendly reef breaks like Gerupuk.

Final thoughts

Surfing over reef for the first time should be a fun and exciting experience.

That said, a little bit of nerves is totally ok! We felt the same way when we first started surfing reef breaks!

Just remember to be patient with yourself, listen to your instructor’s advice and go easy. You don’t need to rule the reef break on your first try.

Enjoy the warm, crystal clear water, colourful coral and friendly vibes.

The waves will come!