How to Overcome the Fear of Surfing
If you’re planning to take a surf lesson in Porto, you’re in for an exciting experience. This vibrant coastal city in northern Portugal is famous for its historic surf school architecture, rich culture, and, more importantly for surfers, its excellent beach breaks. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to improve your skills, surf schools in Porto offer top-notch instruction and beautiful locations to help you enjoy your time on the waves. However, to get the most out of your lesson, it’s essential to come prepared. Bringing the right gear and mindset can make a significant difference in your performance, comfort, and enjoyment. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you should bring to your surf lesson in Porto to ensure a smooth and memorable experience.
The first thing you’ll want to bring is a solid sense of enthusiasm and openness. Surfing, especially for first-timers, can be both exhilarating and humbling. You’ll be falling off your board a lot, getting tossed around by waves, and spending time getting used to being in the ocean. Having a positive attitude and a willingness to learn from your mistakes will help you progress faster and enjoy the process more. Remember, every experienced surfer was once a beginner. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back—surfing is about having fun and connecting with nature.
Next, let’s talk about what to wear. Most surf schools in Porto will provide wetsuits, which are crucial in the Atlantic Ocean, even in summer. The water off the coast of northern Portugal is notably cooler than in the south, and wetsuits help retain your body heat, protect you from sunburn, and even offer some minor protection from abrasions. However, it’s wise to bring your own swimwear to wear under the wetsuit. A snug-fitting swimsuit, bikini, or boardshorts are ideal. Avoid anything bulky or with ties that might get tangled. If you have your own wetsuit and prefer to use it, make sure it’s appropriate for the current water temperature—usually a 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit works well for most of the year.
While the surf school typically provides the board, leash, and wetsuit, there are a few personal items you’ll want to bring to ensure your comfort. A towel is essential, and if you’re planning to hang out at the beach afterward, consider bringing a second towel or a beach mat. Changing ponchos are also quite popular among surfers—they offer privacy and warmth while you’re getting in and out of your wetsuit. Many surfers also bring a bottle of freshwater to rinse the saltwater off their face and feet after the session, especially if there aren’t any nearby showers.
Sun protection is another must. Even on overcast days, UV rays can be intense when reflected off the water. Bring a high-SPF, water-resistant sunscreen and apply it liberally to your face, neck, and any other exposed areas. Zinc-based sunscreens are especially popular with surfers because they stay on well and provide a visible layer of protection. Don’t forget lip balm with SPF, as your lips are particularly susceptible to sunburn during long sessions in the water. A hat and sunglasses will be useful before and after your lesson, especially if you’re spending the day at the beach.
If you wear contact lenses or glasses, think ahead about your time in the water. Most people opt for daily disposable contacts when surfing, as they can be discarded afterward if they get contaminated with saltwater or sand. Prescription surf goggles do exist, but they’re relatively uncommon and can be pricey. If your vision is extremely poor without glasses, it might be worth investing in a pair, but for most people, contacts or simply going without them for the lesson is sufficient.
Don’t forget to bring plenty of drinking water. Surfing is physically demanding, and you’ll likely be under the sun and exerting yourself for over an hour. Hydration is key to staying focused and feeling your best. Many people underestimate how much energy they expend during a surf session, especially beginners who are constantly paddling, balancing, and falling off the board. Bringing a refillable water bottle is eco-friendly and ensures you can hydrate before and after your lesson.
Snacks are another good idea, especially if your lesson is early in the morning or spans a few hours. Try to eat something light but energy-rich before the lesson—think a banana, a granola bar, or a slice of toast with peanut butter. After the session, you might be ravenous, so having a protein bar, some nuts, or fresh fruit on hand will tide you over until your next meal. Surfing can be surprisingly exhausting, and having snacks nearby can make the recovery period more comfortable.
If you’re planning on bringing valuables like your phone, wallet, or car keys, think carefully about storage. Most surf schools have secure locations for storing personal items during the lesson, but it’s worth checking in advance. Alternatively, consider bringing a dry bag or waterproof pouch. These are particularly useful if you’re heading to a more remote beach or want to keep your items safe from sand and saltwater. Lockboxes that attach to your car are also common among more experienced surfers who regularly drive to the beach.
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