Can Adults Start Surfing? A Guide to Getting Started

We often get this question from our guests or from those considering fulfilling their dream of learning to surf: Is it maybe already too late? 

When that question comes up, we like to refer back to an old saying that applies to many situations, including this one: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” 

When it comes to surfing, age is just one small piece of a much bigger puzzle. Other factors, such as your fitness level, expectations, the quality of your surf instructor (or lack of one), and the environment you’re in, play an equally important role – no matter your age. 

Why You Should Start Surfing as an Adult 

Starting to surf might sound challenging and intimidating – but we want to reframe that. It’s exciting and transformative! Beyond the pure fun of being a beginner in adulthood, surfing rewards you in countless ways for every challenge you face in the water. 

Spending time in saltwater under the shining sun comes with several health benefits – research shows that spending time in nature, especially near the ocean, can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and boost mental well-being. 

• Health and Well-Being: Surfing engages your entire body, working both large and small muscle groups. Paddling activates your upper body, especially your shoulders, back and arms, while your legs and core work hard to maintain balance on the board. 
• Mental Focus and Mindfulness: When you’re in the water, you have to be fully present to observe how the ocean and waves behave that day – because no two days are ever the same! It’s also worth noting that the ocean is one of the rare places in today’s world where you truly can disconnect from your phone and embrace the moment. 
• Challenges and Adventures: Taking on new challenges, and often facing some of your fears, can lead to something truly extraordinary. It’s hard to put into words, but when you catch and ride your first wave, you’ll understand exactly what we mean. The joy is unbeatable! 

Common Fears and Myths 

“I’m too old to start surfing.” 

This is the most common myth – and the very reason we’re writing this article! Surfing isn’t about being the fastest or strongest; it’s about being in nature, having fun and pushing yourself to discover what you’re capable of. There’s truly no age limit to start surfing, in fact, many people who take it up as adults appreciate the sport even more because they can see their own progress. 

“I’m not fit enough.” 

You don’t need to be an athlete to get on a surfboard for the first time. With that being said, surfing will actually improve your fitness! As we mentioned earlier, surfing engages your entire body, making it an excellent way to gradually build strength and endurance while having fun.

Where Do You Start? 

Getting started with surfing can look different for everyone, but it ultimately comes down to a few key factors. The first step is finding a location that feels right for you, as you’ll be spending a lot of time in the water and on land. 

In Europe, Portugal and France top the list of popular surf destinations. They’re easy to reach, with short flights and usually straightforward connections from airports to coastal towns. An added bonus is the flexibility of planning your trip – short travel times and no time zone changes make it easy to tailor your getaway to your schedule. 

At DBP Adventures, we currently offer trips to several incredible spots in Portugal and France, such as Peniche, Santa Cruz, Ericeira and Moliets. You can choose the destination and experience that suits you best, and we’re always here to help if you want someone to brainstorm ideas with! 

How Long Does It Take to Learn Surfing? 

We won’t sugarcoat it – learning to surf takes time, regardless of your age. But the beauty of it all is that it doesn’t really matter how long it takes, because the journey itself is incredibly fun and rewarding! 

Remember, everyone starts with their own unique abilities, and what works for you might be different for someone else. Never compare your progress to others – whether it’s in surfing or anything else. 

That said, you can speed up the learning process by attending a surf camp, where experienced instructors provide personalized coaching to help you progress more effectively. That’s why we always recommend booking a one- or two-week surf trip to get the most out of your beginner experience. But we also know that schedules differ, which is why at certain destinations, we offer flexible dates so you can tailor your trip to suit your availability. 

It doesn’t matter whether you’re young or old, in peak physical shape, or simply looking to start a new hobby. Surfing is all about having fun, challenging yourself, and enjoying nature. Start at your own pace, and you’ll soon realize that every little bit of progress, no matter how big or small, comes with a huge sense of accomplishment. So why not take the leap and start surfing now? 

Don’t hesitate – it’s never too late to start! 

And if you’re curious about our surf trips, you can find them here.