When you think about catching waves at Summerleaze Beach, you probably imagine the excitement of standing up on a board, the power of the sea beneath you, and the feeling of gliding across the water. But if you’re new to the sport, the terminology can be a little confusing. Do people say surf boarding, wave surfing, or simply surfing?
The good news is that they all point to the same incredible experience. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common surfing terms so you can feel confident both in the water and when talking with other surfers.
It’s easy to think that surf boarding and wave surfing are just different names for the same activity. After all, you’re riding waves on a board. But in the surfing world, the sport is most commonly known simply as surfing.
If you’ve used terms like surf boarding or wave surfing before, don’t worry, plenty of beginners do. At Big Blue Surf, we help people learn not only how to ride waves with confidence, but also how to understand the culture and language that comes with the sport. Before long, you’ll feel right at home in the lineup.
While surf boarding might sound like a logical phrase, because you are on a board in the surf, it is not a term commonly used by surfers. The word surfboard is correct when referring to the equipment itself, but when talking about the activity, the accepted term is simply surfing. Saying “I went surf boarding” can sound unusual to experienced surfers, but that is all part of learning the sport and its culture. At Big Blue Surf, we are here to help you feel confident both in and out of the water.
Wave surfing is another phrase people occasionally use, but it’s a bit redundant. Surfing already implies waves—no waves, no surf! So while wave surfing makes sense to someone new to the sport, it’s not commonly used among those familiar with surfing culture.
In short, if you’re riding waves on a board, the correct and widely accepted term is surfing.
Using the correct terminology might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference. Understanding the language of surfing helps you feel more confident and more connected to the surfing community. It also makes it easier to communicate with instructors and other surfers in the water.
At Big Blue Surf, we enjoy helping students of all ages and abilities learn the skills of surfing in a relaxed and supportive environment. Whether you are completely new to the ocean or looking to improve your technique, we will help you build confidence, learn the basics, and feel at home in the surf.
Our surf lessons at Summerleaze Beach are designed for all ability levels. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to improve, we will help you build confidence in the water. We teach everything from paddling and popping up, to wave selection and board control. We will also help you learn the surfing terminology, so you feel comfortable in the lineup.
Whether you call it surf boarding, wave surfing, or simply surfing, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. We want you to enjoy the experience and feel part of the surfing community from day one.
There’s no better place to begin your surfing journey than Summerleaze Beach. With its consistent waves and welcoming vibe, it’s perfect for beginners and improvers alike. And if you’re heading further down the coast, be sure to visit our sister school at Widemouth Bay—OA Surf Club.
So sign up today, start your journey into surf boarding wave surfing—or simply surfing—and become part of our friendly and passionate community. We can’t wait to welcome you to the waves.
