Have you ever arrived at the surf break, the conditions are perfect—warm air, clear skies, and clean waves? You can’t wait to get out there. You pull on your wetsuit, wax up your board, and paddle out. As you patiently wait your turn, one surfer keeps paddling for every wave, never giving anyone else a chance.
Or maybe you’re visiting a new surf spot, excited to try a break you’ve heard so much about. But when you get out there, a group of locals dominate the lineup, hostile to newcomers, enforcing their ‘ownership’ of the spot. The excitement quickly fades, and you’re left wondering why surfing has become a race to see who can take the most.
Scenes like this are becoming all too common in the surfing world. Instead of creating community and sharing the stoke that surfing was built on, we’re seeing more surfers prioritizing themselves and their own desires. This mentality is killing the joy of surfing. It creates tension in the lineup, and it’s becoming rare to even hear conversations out there.
At Sozo, we believe surfing is about more than catching the perfect wave. It’s about connecting to creation, each other, and giving back. As Christian surfers, we’re called to do better. We need to shift our focus from taking to giving—whether it’s sharing a few waves each session, mentoring a beginner, striking up a conversation, or even just offering a smile. Together, we can slowly transform surf culture back into the fun, stoke-filled activity that drew us in from the start.
The Problem: Selfishness in Surf Culture
One of the biggest issues in today’s surfing culture is the rise of selfish behavior in the lineup. Many surfers are now focused on catching the most waves or the best wave, often at all costs, with little regard for those around them. At almost every break around the world, you’ll find examples of this, creating a hostile and tension-filled environment. Lineups lack the joy and camaraderie they once had. This selfish behavior doesn’t just ruin the experience for others—it also affects the selfish surfer, creating bitterness and eroding the sense of community that surfing used to foster. As James 3:16 reminds us, “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and every evil practice.” This verse feels more relevant than ever in today’s surfing world. The lineup has more disorder and tension than before, and the root cause is selfishness. If surfers continue to prioritize themselves over others, the essence of what makes surfing truly special could be lost.
Shifting from Selfishness to Selflessness
The solution to restoring joy, community, and order in the lineup is shifting our mindset from selfishness to selflessness. Surfing should not be just about catching waves but about sharing the stoke and the experience of the ocean together, creating a positive environment for everyone in the water. Instead of paddling for every wave, take a moment to let someone else go. Not only is it a kind and respectful thing to do, but it also fosters a more positive atmosphere, and you might even get one back on the next set. The ripple effect of a good action is powerful. Mentoring beginners is another impactful way to give back. Rather than treating them as obstacles or pushovers, we should support them by passing on knowledge and etiquette. After all, they are the future of surfing, and if we teach them the right way, the culture will transform through them. As Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This shift from taking to giving has a profound impact. When surfers prioritize others—whether by giving up a few waves, offering a smile, or striking up a conversation—the entire surf culture is transformed. The joy and sense of community should be our top priority, and the good waves will naturally come as a byproduct of a healthy lineup. As Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Surf to Serve
Selflessness in surfing isn't just a nice idea—it’s the key to restoring the community and joy that make surfing special. When we shift our attitudes to prioritize each other in the water, we can transform surf culture one lineup at a time. If we surf in a Christ-like manner, this is an achievable goal. I encourage you to give back to surfing the next time you paddle out—whether it’s by giving someone a wave, encouraging another surfer or starting a conversation. These small steps are necessary to change surfing for the better. The ocean has enough for everyone; no human owns it. Let’s make sure we are sharing God’s creation with the right heart and attitude.
1 comment
Thank you for a well written description of how to be selfless in surfing. Great advice and shared wisdom through scripture. I find joy in sharing the stoke with fellow surfers. And many times I’ve to be humble to those who aren’t following surf etiquette. The waits inbetween sets can be a great opportunity to share the gospel and explain the beauty of God’s creation. And that we as a surfer have the honour to ride the waves created by God who made it all. Continue to be encouraging and sharing knowledge and understanding of the true surfing culture and what it was originally designed for. Fun!