There is a common misconception that surfers are laid-back dudes. While they may look the part, it is important to note that surfing is anything but laid-back. It takes a lot of skills and discipline to ride the perfect wave. But don't be discouraged if you're a beginner. Once you set your mind to it, surfing will come naturally for you. In fact, you will become so addicted to surfing, that it will be an art form in itself.

Surfers don't just get onto a surfboard and miraculously learn to ride the waves. They achieved this sort of skill with discipline, practice and a whole lot of determination. If you are a beginner, perhaps the first piece of advice you'll ever get is to learn not to be scared of the ocean. If you set your mind on conquering the seas with your trusty surfboard, then you've got the right outlook.

Before you begin your lessons, you have to make sure you're fully-equipped. It pays to be prepared, and nothing beats having the confidence to start because you know you've got everything you need with you.

The Beach

Of course you need to find the perfect beach with the perfect waves. And you have to pick your beaches wisely. You can't learn to surf if the waves are a dud. Nor can you get started if they are too big. So it's best to pick a beach with waters that are mild enough for beginners. In a perfect world, where there are no responsibilities and financial factors, you would opt to go surfing in Hawaii. The waters are wonderfully mild, the temperature is palmy. Alas, time and financial constrictions may prevent you from taking a trip to Hawaii regularly. Good thing Baja California in Mexico, is a really good alternative. In fact, the beaches at Baja are famous for being perfect surfing spots. Todos Santos is the most popular place in Baja, where the beaches are perfect for beginner and expert surfers. The white sand beaches are perfect for that grueling but enjoyable task of learning how to surf.

Your Surfboard

If you're a beginner, it is best to start with a beginner's surfboard. Many recommend a soft-Doyle surfboard for the first few times you go out surfing. Your goal is to get a surfboard with as much surface area as possible, so you can practice on your balancing skills better. Your first board should be wide, thick, round, floaty and soft. It should be 2 – 3 feet taller than you. The more you acquire your skills in surfing, then you can upgrade your surfboard to something a bit more compact, and made of fiberglass.

Your Attire

Surfing requires you to spend a vast amount of time in the water. It is important, therefore, to be comfortable. And if you're freezing your butt off, that means you're not comfortable. Invest in a good wetsuit. Decide on which suit to buy, depending on the temperatures of the waters where you will be surfing. Aside from warding off the cold, the wetsuit will also be helpful in preventing rashes to your body as you will rub against your board frequently.

Other Accessories

Make sure you get a leash that is the same length as your surfboard, so you won't lose your board all the time. For better traction, it is nice to have some wax around, though this is not a requirement. Now, try to find your guts and determination, and you're off to your first attempt at surfing!

In learning how to surf, one must always remember to practice. Do not attempt to learn how to stand on your board as soon as you hit the water. Try to get your balance first. Learn the feel of the board on your body. Communicate with the waters. Once you've gotten used to finding your balance, then you can proceed to learning how to sit on your surfboard. This isn't as easy as it looks because you would have to contend with the waves and your own balancing skills. Once you've perfected this, then you can learn to stand on your board.

Always surf with a partner, who is helpful, both as a spotter, and for safety purposes. Always remain calm, and you will go through less accidents. And finally, enjoy the experience. Though you may not be the most gifted surfer on the planet, savor the moment. After all, it is the closest thing you'll get to actually walking on water.