With the help of our surf coaches and team riders, we’ve compiled the 10 best intermediate surf tips and techniques to help you push past plateaus and reach the next level. From better paddling and wave reading to rail control and fitness, these tips will help you surf with more flow, power, and confidence.

If you’ve already mastered the basics — popping up smoothly, trimming down the line, and handling small waves — this guide will help refine your skills and mindset. Surfing is a journey of constant improvement, and attention to detail is what turns an intermediate surfer into an advanced one.

Here are our top 10 intermediate surf tips and techniques 👇

1. DIAL IN YOUR PADDLING TECHNIQUE

Efficient paddling is key to catching more waves. Keep your body centered, chest slightly lifted, and paddle deep with long, smooth strokes. Avoid splashing or short strokes. Practicing paddling drills in flat water helps build endurance and form — a must for surf progression.

2. MASTER THE ANGLED TAKEOFF

Instead of popping up straight toward the beach, angle your takeoff toward the wave’s shoulder. This helps you stay on the open face and maintain speed. Practicing angled takeoffs is one of the best intermediate surf techniques for smoother rides.

3. UNDERSTAND WAVE SHAPE AND ENERGY

Intermediate surfers often lose waves because they misread them. Study how waves break — where they peak, where they close out, and where the shoulder runs. Watch the lineup before paddling out. Reading the ocean is one of the most valuable surfing tips to level up.If you need more info click here https://www.southcoastsurfschool.com/es/aprende-a-leer-el-mar-para-mejorar-tu-surf/

4. STAY LOW AND CENTERED

Many intermediates stand too tall too early. Keep your knees bent and your upper body stable through turns. A low stance improves balance, flow, and control. Think “low and grounded” — your surf technique will immediately look smoother.

5. IMPROVE YOUR BOTTOM TURN

The bottom turn is the foundation of every maneuver. Compress at the bottom, lead with your shoulders and eyes, and aim for where you want to go next. Mastering this move is essential to improve your surfing and unlock advanced turns.

6. CONNECT YOUR MANEUVERS

Instead of doing one turn at a time, focus on linking them together. Shift your weight from rail to rail, maintain momentum, and keep your eyes moving down the line. Watch professional surfers in slow motion to study their rhythm and flow.

7. CHOOSE THE RIGHT BOARD FOR PROGRESSION

Avoid downsizing too fast. Pick a surfboard with enough volume and width to maintain speed while still turning easily. Funboards, fishes, or hybrid shapes are great for intermediate surfers looking to progress.
More info here https://www.southcoastsurfschool.com/es/como-elegir-tabla-de-surf-segun-tu-nivel/

8. LEARN TO GENERATE SPEED ON THE WAVE

Speed isn’t about pumping frantically — it’s about using the wave’s power. Compress and extend rhythmically as you move up and down the face. Use your rails, not your arms, to build flow. A surfskate can help you practice this movement pattern on land.

9. STRENGTHEN YOUR SURF FITNESS

Surfing demands endurance, flexibility, and core stability. Add swimming, yoga, and mobility drills to your weekly routine. The fitter and more mobile you are, the faster your surf progression will be.

10. STAY PATIENT AND CONSISTENT

Improvement takes time. Surf in different conditions, challenge yourself, and don’t be afraid to wipe out. Every session counts. Stay consistent, trust the process, and enjoy the journey — that’s the secret to true progression.