Bodysurfing is riding a wave without any buoyant equipment such as a surfboard or boogie board although some will utilize fins or hand paddles to get more speed. Some surfers in Hawai‘i have stated to use bodysurfing as a way to prepare for big wave riding. For beginners, it’s important to know how to handle breaking waves such as duck diving underneath away from the beach and to be aware of shore breaks.

Swim with a buddy or where there is a lifeguard on duty. Once you have picked a good spot to ride the waves, station yourself behind the wave, paddle hard when the wave starts to crest just before it reaches you to get above the wave and pick a direction (right, left or straight). Continue to kick your legs while extending one arm forward to steer—right to go right, left to go left— and just let the wave carry you to shore. Once you have mastered the basics, you can try various tricks like rolling on your back, underwater takeoffs, spins and barrel rolls. Make sure to practice proper surf etiquette as well as ocean safety.