Leg ropes are compulsory at all times when there are a lot of people in the water. A lost board out in the ocean can seriously injure another surfer or swimmer when it gets washed in. Beginners must always wear a leash.

Internet has no distance and since not every single area has access to the latest and the newest item, online surf shop is a great help and might give you things which are otherwise hard to find. In fact, the online sites are also a perfect way to shop for a surfer who is landlocked. For a surfer who lives in place in the middle of dry land with only very few occasional visits to catch the waves probably this kind of shop is best. However, the website and a little imagination can make you get the smell of the sea right from your home. Each of them has a personality of their own and they carry a particular surf brand, equipment and accessory.

When you decide you want to learn to surf you can go to a surfing school on the west coast of California or the east coast of Florida. You could also go to Hawaii or many other beaches in the world for your schooling if you want to learn to surf. This is not, however, your only option, but it is one of the better options you can use.

This part of Costa Rica still offers the visitor a glimpse of the past. A dozen years ago when nearby Montezuma was finding itself a destination for many travelers coming to Costa Rica, Santa Teresa was just getting electricity. Certainly Santa Teresa has developed much in the past decade, but there are no buildings over three stories in height. For travelers who have been to Costa Rica, this is no Tamarindo or Jaco.

If you desire good results in surf competitions and in your free surfing you need to take good care of yourself, physically and mentally. Always make sure you get plenty of sleep the night before a surf contest.

Should you buy one? Wetsuit prices range from $200 to about $700 - not cheap. For new open water swimmers, the best choice is to rent. Renting costs about $50 per weekend. This allows you to use it several times over the weekend for clinics, practices and racing. Maybe you will end up detesting the open water experience. Hopefully not, but renting first gives you a chance to assess before committing major money. Also, some triathlon wetsuit clearance rental stores have off-season sales of used wetsuits. Renting a time or two during the season can give you a chance to experiment with different sizes and styles so you are ready to purchase a discounted one later.

Look optimistically for creative ways to use the situation for good -- don't lament your misfortune. The opportunity may be hidden. Learn to look for it. This is a creative success habit, and it only comes with practice. Become an opportunity farmer. Look for the hidden benefits behind each change and every situation.