Surf Smarter: No Snaking
Posted: 25 March 2026
Surfing Etiquette – What is Snaking?
Keep the peace out on the waves by avoiding ‘snaking’ your fellow surfers.
What exactly is ‘Snaking’ in Surf Etiquette? This is when you deliberately paddle to the inside in order to steal wave priority and take the wave from another surfer who is first in the line up to catch the next wave.
Not snaking is about having respect for other surfers, staying safe, and respecting the codes of surf etiquette!
Share the waves and give everyone a chance to catch them!
Surfer no.2 is waiting second in the line up
Surfer no.2 is now moving quickly to the inside
Surfer no.2 is now taking the wave and has snaked surfer no.1
About ASI
ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding. ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, global opportunities, and adventure.
