So You Wanna Surf? Start Here.

Surfing 101 is your no-pressure intro to the basics—designed for first-timers, total beginners, or anyone who’s stood on the sand and thought,

“That looks kinda sick, but also kinda terrifying.”

We got you. This free course from Driftline Surf Co. will help you feel way less clueless and way more ready to get in the water.

Free. Fast. No wetsuit required.

Here’s What’s Inside Surfing 101

Each module is short, simple, and designed to give you just enough knowledge to feel confident (without info overload). Watch them all in under an hour—or spread it out, no pressure.

Module 1: The Gear You Actually Need

Surfboards, wetsuits, leashes, wax—what’s essential, what’s optional, and how to choose the right stuff for your first time out.

Module 2: Surf Etiquette 101

The unspoken rules of the lineup. Learn how to stay safe, be respectful, and avoid getting side-eyed by locals.

Module 4: What to Expect Your First Time Out

A real-talk breakdown of your first surf session—how it’ll feel, what to focus on, and what success actually looks like.

Module 3: Ocean Safety Basics

How to read the waves, spot a rip current, and know when not to paddle out.

Bonus Download: Surf Session Checklist

Print it, save it, bring it to the beach. Everything you’ll want to remember on the sand before you hit the water.

Who's This Course For?

First-time surfers (or "I've tried it once and it was a mess" surfers)
Travelers heading to the coast who want to prep before they paddle
People who want to try surfing but feel awkward renting a board with no clue what they’re doing
Anyone who's curious but not quite ready to commit to a full lesson (yet)

“It was the perfect warm-up before my first real lesson.”

I wasn’t flailing around nearly as much because I kinda knew what to expect. Big fan.

— Leah S.

“I went from nervous to totally stoked.”

I took the course the night before my trip and felt way more confident walking into the surf shop. The tips on etiquette alone were worth it.

— Luca M.

“Finally someone explained surfing in a way that made sense.”

I used to think surfing was only for naturally cool people. This course made it feel totally doable—and way less intimidating.

— Maya R.

Start Learning. Then Start Surfing.

Don’t overthink it. Don’t wait for the perfect wave. Just show up, learn the basics, and get your feet wet—literally.

231 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA

info@driftlinesurfco.com | (831) 555-0192