SURF ETHICS FOR BEGINNERS
#1. Choose a beach that suits your abilities
#2. Don't get on someone else's wave
You must keep in mind that the surfer who is closest to the highest part of the wave is the one who has priority over it, so you must let him have the wave and move to the side. Learn this rule so you don't cause an accident!
#3. Like at the supermarket, queue up!
Cutting in line is bad taste! Wait your turn, the waves never end. If you see a surfer who has been waiting for a wave before you, respect him and let him take the wave.
#4. Paddle away from the surfer riding the wave
When paddling out to catch waves from the bottom, keep in mind that you have to do so without crossing the path of the surfer who is already riding the wave. The two ways to avoid crossing their path are: Paddling towards the "foam" (where the wave breaks) or paddling down the channel where the wave has not yet broken, this being as far away from the surfer as possible.
Most experienced surfers will do everything they can to avoid a collision, but you should do everything you can to stay out of their way, both for your safety and theirs.