What’s My Surf Level?
Are you a beginner or an experienced surfer? Find out…
Deciding your surf level
Worried that you’re the only person who hasn’t surfed before? Approximately 20% of the guests at our surfing retreats in Central America haven’t touched a surfboard. Consequently, it can be hard to self-define your surf level, so we’ve come up with simple criteria to help you decide. Upon booking, please let us know which of the five surf levels below best describes you and your experience level.
Level 1 – Foundations
We believe in building strong foundations at our surf retreats, so we focus on key aspects like perfecting your pop-up, stance and paddle technique—skills that will benefit you throughout your surfing journey. The aim of this level is to take you from a complete beginner to catching your very first green waves.
About you
- I’ve never surfed before
- I’ve surfed before but only in the whitewater
- I’ve surfed before, but feel uncomfortable out the back
Goals
- Catch waves unassisted
- Feel confident in your foundational skills
- Become independent enough to surf on your own
Level 2 – Progressor
The Progressor level is for surfers ready to fully take on green waves. We emphasize understanding the ocean, reading waves and improving timing and positioning. You’ll also learn techniques like angled takeoffs and trimming.
About you
- I can catch small unbroken green waves with some help and ride them straight to the beach
- I feel comfortable out the back in waist to chest-high waves.
- My pop-up is smooth enough to get me to my feet fairly consistently
Goals
- Catch green waves
- Learn how to better read and anticipate waves
- Take off at an angle and trim while up and riding
Level 3 – Carver
The Carver program is for surfers confident in catching and trimming along waves who are now ready to start using the wave to its full potential. You’ll dive into maneuvers like bottom turns and cutbacks and deepen your ability to read conditions, forecasts and waves.
About you
- I’m able to catch small green waves independently
- I feel comfortable in shoulder to head-high waves
- I can successfully trim along waves both backside and frontside
- My pop-up is smooth most of the time
- I know how to generate speed
Goals
- Perform maneuvers like bottom turns and cutbacks
- Draw varied lines on waves
- Read a forecast and conditions to better predict good surf days
Level 4 – Step Up
Our Step Up program is designed for surfers on shortboards and mid-lengths who already know basic maneuvers and want to surf with more speed, power and flow. We focus on mastering positioning, maintaining speed and performing more critical maneuvers.
About you
- I feel comfortable in head-high to slightly overhead waves
- I can perform basic maneuvers like cutbacks, carves and bottom turns
- I can generate speed by pumping down the line
- I consistently catch green waves and ride them to the shore
Goals
- Surf in the pocket with increased speed
- Link different maneuvers throughout the wave
- Learn how different turns fit into different sections of the wave
Longboarders – Glider
Our Glider program is specifically designed for longboarders. Depending on your level we focus on skills like cross-stepping, turning using the tail and controlled kickouts. By the end of the week, you’ll feel inspired and more fluid in your longboarding, with a clear understanding of the next steps to take on your journey towards toes on the nose!
About you
- I want to improve my longboard skills during my week with Rise Up
- I can catch green waves unassisted
- I feel comfortable trimming both backside and frontside
- I can do basic maneuvers on the longboard like cutbacks
- My pop-up is smooth and consistent
Goals
- Learn how leaning on the tail can produce more critical turns
- Surf more fluidly and with composure
- Take the first steps towards putting your toes on the nose
