WHAT IS THE PERFECT AGE TOO LEARN TO SURF?

Or: Am I too old to learn to surf?

This question appears so often in my inbox, it seems to have a permanent place there. “Am I too old to start surfing? Will I fit in?” The answer is a resounding yes! I was 58 myself and began surfing at 52. The only regret I have is not starting sooner. (Take a look at this picture of me riding the waves at 56!)

We receive countless emails from people in their 50s, 60s, and even over 70s wondering if they are too old to surf. At first glance, the sport might look like it’s dominated by younger people.

In 2009, my husband and I opened Swell Surf Camp in Cabarete on the North coast of the Dominican Republic. We encountered a surprise: many of our guests were older than we had expected. Our original target was a younger demographic, but we quickly adjusted our website as more experienced folks showed interest in learning to surf. At present, the average age of our guests is 40. This includes both people in their early thirties and vibrant individuals in their fifties. We are immensely proud to demonstrate that age is not a barrier to taking up surfing.

They say “70 is the new 50.” No matter your age, people are leading longer, active lives these days. I’m not a health expert at 58, but with 70 approaching and no major health issues in sight, I’ve embraced kiteboarding at 41 and recently took up wingfoiling at 58. Trust me, there’s always room for another water sport as long as you have the spirit for adventure!

(That’s me surfing 2 years ago, ago 56)

Key Takeaways

• Age does not limit when you can start learning how to surf. Some individuals start their surfing journey later in their lives.
• The sport improves balance, strength, and mental health.
• Beginners should take it slow, seeking lessons from a professional instructor. They should also use a larger, more stable board.
• Consulting a doctor is important if you have existing health concerns.
• Becoming part of surf communities or groups offers support and helps with motivation.

AM I TOO OLD TO LEARN TO SURF?

Let’s be really honest here, it’s definitely a bit harder on the body learning to surf at 50, 60 or 70+ than it is when you are learning to surf at 30 years old. But with good basic preparation and realistic expectations, it’s absolutely possible.

And if you have a desire to do it, then the health benefits are extraordinary. In fact, surfing is one of the best all-around fitness activities you can possibly undertake. It generally has low impact, it’s good for cardio, good for muscular strength (and let’s face it as we get older, our muscles can really benefit from being used more rather than less), and perhaps most importantly, it’s really good for the soul. I’ve left many a bad mood on the beach when I enter the water. Surfing has a tendency to connect you to nature and forget about all the other stuff. I cannot even begin to describe the feeling when you catch your first wave, even a little white water ride, it’s incredible and trust me, if you are 70+ it will probably give you more of a thrill than if you were 25.

So if you are someone who wants to ask the question, ‘I am too old to learn to surf?’ let me answer that here and now: No, you are not too old to learn to surf. Neither are you too old to ‘fit in’ with the surfing crew. As I answer every client who sends that question my way if you have the desire, it’s enough: It already puts you in the ‘crew’ before you’ve ridden your first surfboard. And, just as these wonderful Australian ladies in the video Taking Off demonstrate so well, it changes lives and always for the better.

NEED MORE INSPIRATION FOR LEARNING TO SURF AT AN ‘OLDER’ AGE?
Have a look a the the beautiful video below.

Come and try it, regardless of your age. We look forward to teaching you how to surf and changing your life too! I’m on hand to answer any questions or doubts you might have about learning to surf as an ‘older’ person.

Clare, co-owner of Swell surf retreats

Sidenote: It’s not just surfing that you can learn later in life, I have also just started my first lessons in Wingfoiling, I will update you on that progress here too.

FAQ

 Is there an age limit for learning to surf?

Absolutely not! Whether you’re in your twenties or well into your golden years, surfing is a thrilling activity that welcomes all ages. Surf lessons tailored to different skill levels, including those specifically designed for older beginners, can make the experience both safe and enjoyable.

What type of surfboard should I start with as a beginner?

For newcomers of any age, starting with longboards or funboards is ideal. These boards are larger and more stable than shortboards, making them easier to balance on while you learn the basics like paddling and standing up.

Can swimming skills improve my surfing ability?

Yes, strong swimming skills are crucial when surfing. Being comfortable performing butterfly strokes or breaststroke in open water increases safety and confidence at sea. It’s essential to be able to manage currents and maintain stamina while waiting for that perfect wave.

Are there health benefits for older adults who take up surfing?

Engaging in physical activities such as surfing can greatly benefit older adults by enhancing flexibility, improving cardiovascular health, and even helping bone strength which counters conditions like osteoporosis. Plus, the sheer joy of catching waves at a scenic spot like Santa Barbara can uplift spirits immensely!