How to Prepare the Best for Your Surf Session?Ensure Success Before You Even Enter the Water
- hellosurfceleste
- Nov 7
- 4 min read
Every successful surf session begins well before your feet hit the wax. Preparation distinguishes surfers who paddle out ready to excel from those who face challenges before catching a wave. Whether you're taking your first lesson or perfecting your cutback, being properly prepared — mentally, physically, and logistically — is crucial.
At Surf Celeste, we see it every day: the surfers who take time to prepare surf smarter, progress faster, and enjoy every session more. Here’s how to make sure your next session starts with success.
1. Check the Forecast — and Understand What It Means
Surfing is all about timing. Knowing when and where to paddle out is half the battle. At Playa Guiones, for example, the tides, wind, and swell direction play a massive role in the quality of the waves.
Here’s what to look for when checking your surf forecast (we recommend Surfline and Windy.com):
Tide: Although Guiones beach works is surfable in pretty much every tide, it tends to work best from mid to high tide, offering smoother, more forgiving waves.
Swell direction: Nosara is very exposed to different swell directions, typically more North swells in the dry season and more south swells in the wet season.
Swell period: Anything above 12 seconds means the waves will have more power and shape.
Wind: Early mornings are usually offshore, making for clean, glassy faces. By midday, the onshore wind can chop things up, however, this does not mean the waves are bad.
At Surf Celeste, we plan all lessons around the day’s best conditions according to your level. But understanding these elements yourself helps you read the ocean better and make smarter calls down the line.
2. Fuel and Hydrate Properly
You wouldn’t go for a long run or gym session without fueling your body — surfing’s no different. A good pre-surf routine means eating light, staying hydrated, and avoiding anything that will drag your energy down.
Before your session:
Eat something light: Think fruit, oats, or a smoothie about 45–60 minutes before paddling out.
Hydrate early: Start drinking water at least an hour before your surf — once you’re in the lineup, it’s too late.
Skip the heavy meals and alcohol: A hangover or full stomach can make even small waves feel exhausting.
After your session:Refuel with something high in protein (eggs, tuna, acai bowl) and keep drinking water or electrolytes to recover faster for your next session.
3. Get Your Gear Dialed In
Your equipment should match both your level and the day’s conditions. The wrong setup can make an easy day feel impossible.
Board: If you’re learning to pop up, at least a 8’0” or larger board will keep things stable and fun, however, this also depends on your size. Intermediate surfers might go for a 7’0” mid-length to start practicing turns and trimming down the line. Advanced surfers might adjust based on the swell — for example, using a 6’0” or smaller shortboard for punchier days or a 6’8” funboard for smaller surf.
Wax and leash: Make sure your wax matches the water temperature (in Nosara, that’s typically tropical wax). Double-check your leash for frays — a snapped leash can quickly turn into a long swim.
Rash guard and sunscreen: A UV rash guard not only protects you from the sun but helps prevent board rash. Apply reef-safe sunscreen 10-20 minutes before your session so it can properly absorb.
4. Warm Up and Get in the Right Headspace
A solid warm-up takes 5 minutes and can completely change how your session feels. Focus on shoulders, back, legs, and hips — the muscles that work hardest when paddling and popping up.
Equally important: mental prep. Take a moment on the beach to breathe, visualize your first few waves, and set one simple goal — maybe it’s “commit to every paddle” or “focus on looking down the line.” Small, specific goals build confidence and progress over time.
5. Secure Your Belongings Before You Paddle Out
Nothing ruins a surf session faster than worrying about your phone or keys on the beach. Leave valuables at your accommodation or a trusted spot like the Surf Celeste office, where they’ll be safe. The less you bring the better.
6. Assess the Surf From the Beach and Respect the Lineup
Before paddling out, take a few minutes to watch the waves and observe the crowd. Notice where surfers are sitting, where the waves are breaking, and how sets are rolling in.
A few key tips for smooth sessions:
Wait for the right moment to paddle out. Look for windows of time after the sets, when no waves are coming.
Follow lineup etiquette: The surfer closest to the peak has priority. Don’t drop in on someone’s wave.
Communicate: A quick “go left” or “you got it” helps avoid collisions and keeps the vibe friendly.
Understanding the current conditions of the surf break helps you catch more waves — and earn respect from locals and fellow surfers.
7. Record, Reflect, and Review
One of the best ways to track your progress is by filming your session. Even short clips can help you notice habits like looking down, late pop-ups, or stiff arms. At Surf Celeste, we often film lessons for post-session analysis — it’s one of the fastest ways to improve.
If you’re into data, try surf-tracking watches or apps like Dawn Patrol or Rip Curl Search GPS. They log your waves, distance paddled, and speed — a fun way to measure progress over time.
8. Rest and Recover
What you do after your surf matters just as much. Stretch your shoulders and hips post-session, rehydrate, and get some rest. A short yoga session or even a walk on the beach helps loosen muscles and keeps your next session pain-free.
Final Thoughts
Surfing starts long before you’re in the lineup. From checking conditions to fueling right, choosing the right gear, and setting your mindset, preparation is the key to every great session.
At Surf Celeste, we help you plan, prepare, and surf smarter — so when you finally hit the water, you’re ready to make the most of every wave.
Book your surf lesson today, and let’s set you up for success before your feet even touch the sand. 🌊
