Spend enough time around surfers and you’ll hear the word “kook” thrown around, usually followed by knowing chuckles or eye rolls. While the term might sound playful, it’s actually one of surfing’s biggest insults, used to describe someone who’s dangerously clueless in the water or ignoring basic surf etiquette. But what exactly makes someone a kook, and how can you avoid becoming one?

What exactly is a kook?

In surf culture, a “kook” means so much more than just a derogatory term for a beginner. It describes someone who shows a dangerous or disrespectful lack of awareness in the water. The word likely originated in 1950s California, initially referring to wannabe surfers who hung around beaches trying to look the part without actually surfing. 

Nowadays, it’s used worldwide to call out both newbies and experienced surfers who endanger others through reckless behavior or ignore basic surfing etiquette. While everyone starts as a beginner, kooks stand out by showing both inexperience and overconfidence. 

Classic kook behavior includes paddling out in waves way beyond their skill level, dropping in on other surfers’ waves, using obviously inappropriate equipment (like trying to surf a shortboard before mastering the basics), and ignoring local customs and etiquette. Perhaps most dangerously, kooks often seem unaware of how their actions affect others in the water.

The biggest kook mistakes

From ignoring etiquette to poor judgment of conditions, here’s some surefire signs you’re dealing with a kook. 

Ignoring surf etiquette

The fastest way to earn the kook label is disregarding basic surf etiquette, like failing to learn who has right of way on waves, paddling out through the impact zone where people are surfing, and not looking around before taking off on a wave. These are essential safety rules that prevent collisions and injuries.

Equipment mismatches

Using the wrong board for your skill level is a classic kook move. Many beginners rush to ride short performance boards before mastering fundamentals on a longboard. Others show up with damaged rental boards, forgotten fins, or leashes attached incorrectly. Some even try to surf with inappropriate gear like shoes or heavy clothing that creates dangerous drag in the water.

Dropping in

Dropping in means taking off on a wave when someone else already has priority. It’s considered one of surfing’s cardinal sins, showing complete disregard for others’ safety and enjoyment. While beginners might drop in accidentally, kooks do it repeatedly without apologizing or learning from their mistakes.

Poor conditions judgment

Some kooks think paddling out in waves that are clearly too big for your ability is brave, but it’s actually very  dangerous. Kooks often ignore warning signs like closed beaches or local surfers staying out of the water. This behavior risks not only their own safety but also endangers others who might need to rescue them.

Wave hogging

Some kooks try to catch every single wave, even when the lineup is crowded. One way of doing this is through “snaking” (paddling around other surfers to gain priority) or taking off on waves when someone else is in a better position. It shows a fundamental misunderstanding of surfing’s shared nature.

How to avoid being a kook

An over confident kook falling off of his surfboard into the ocean, he looks like he's flying

The best way to avoid kook status is through patience and respect. Take time to learn proper surf etiquette before paddling out at crowded spots. Watch how locals interact, where they paddle out, and how they share waves. 

Start at beginner-friendly beaches with mellower waves and fewer people. Most importantly, check your ego at the beach because there’s no shame in being a beginner, but there’s plenty in being dangerous.

Getting proper instruction makes a huge difference. Qualified surf instructors teach not just technique but also notable safety rules and etiquette. They can help you choose appropriate equipment and spots for your skill level. Building these foundations might seem tedious, but it’s far better than developing bad habits or earning a reputation as a kook.

The difference between being a beginner and a kook

There are some key distinctions that set out kooks from beginners.  Here’s what to look out for. 

What makes someone a kook isn’t lack of skill, as that would be unfair. Instead, it’s a  lack of respect. While beginners might make mistakes, they learn from them and show consideration for others. 

Kooks, meanwhile, often display an entitled attitude that puts everyone at risk. The ocean demands respect, and those who ignore this fundamental truth quickly find themselves unwelcome in lineups worldwide.

Tips for new surfers

If you’re just starting out, the last thing you want is to be called a kook. Follow these tips to make sure you’re embraced by the surfing community and they understand that it’s your first time on the waves. 

Starting right

Choose a beginner-friendly beach with sandy bottom breaks and smaller waves. Visit during off-peak hours when crowds are thinner. Rent a large, stable board (at least 8 feet long) from a reputable shop that can offer advice about local conditions.

Essential etiquette

Learn who has right of way (the surfer closest to the peak or already up and riding). Never paddle straight through the lineup – go around where others are surfing. Always look around before paddling for a wave. If in doubt about priority, let the wave go.

Common mistakes

Don’t surf alone as a beginner. Avoid letting your board go when wiping out – it can hurt others. Stay away from crowds until you can control your board well. Never ditch your board when a big wave approaches; turtle roll or duck dive instead.

Learning resources

Beyond lessons, watch surf etiquette videos online, read local surf reports to understand conditions, and consider joining a surf club or finding a mentor. Many beaches have volunteer surf lifesavers who can offer safety advice.

Don’t be that person

Everyone wipes out, everyone makes mistakes, and everyone starts somewhere. What matters is approaching surfing with respect, patience, and awareness of others. Stay humble, learn the rules, and focus on progress rather than showing off. The ocean has plenty of waves for everyone, as long as we all play by the rules.New to surfing and want to learn the ways? Don’t just talk like a surfer, surf like one!