Water etiquette
Every water sport has its unwritten rules. They exist to keep everyone safe and to make sure the ocean stays fun for everyone. Pick your discipline — we'll walk you through what you need to know.
Surfing
Priority rules, dropping in, paddling out, and respecting the lineup.
Read the guideKitesurfing
Right of way, launching and landing, shared use with swimmers and surfers.
Read the guideWing foiling
Foil safety, right of way with other craft, and staying clear of lineups.
Read the guideWindsurfing
Starboard and port rules, shared water, and beach launching etiquette.
Read the guideSUP
Sharing waves without ruining someone's session, river etiquette, and leash rules.
Read the guideBodyboarding
Lineup priority, sharing peaks with stand-up surfers, and drop-in rules.
Read the guideBodysurfing
Wave priority when you're the smallest thing in the water.
Read the guideDiving
Buddy system, boat etiquette, marine life interaction, and dive flag rules.
Read the guideSnorkeling
Reef protection, group awareness, and sharing the water with boats and divers.
Read the guideThese guides cover general etiquette and safety principles. Local rules, regulations, and conditions vary — always check with locals and respect any posted signage. rubber.surf is not liable for any incidents in the water. Read our full terms.
