Girls who surf - Elisabeth

Where do you usually surf?
North Shore, Oahu

How did you get into surfing?
Someone very close to me was passionate about surfing. When I was 18, they dragged me out into the water and pushed me into my first wave at Blackies in Newport Beach. Through the ups and downs of learning, I’ve been addicted ever since.

Why did you start surfing?
I’ve always been passionate about the ocean and being outdoors. As a sailor and free diver, I wanted a new way to interact with the water. Ultimately, it was someone willing to teach and share their passion with me that helped me start.

What was your biggest fear when you started?
AH haha, what fear didn’t I have? At some point or another, I’ve feared hitting reefs, wipeouts, sending myself into quicker steeper waves, double wave hold-downs, being hit by the board, you name it. Because I’m always learning and pushing myself in surfing, there are always fears. It’s just a matter of risk and hard work to conquer them.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to other surfer girls?
No matter who you are or how long you’ve been surfing, everyone gets their butt kicked and is humbled by the ocean at some point.

So surf to have fun, and don’t take it or yourself too seriously, we’re all learning and loving it at different stages, places, and times.

Tell us a funny, embarrassing, or inspiring surf story!
When I first got on a board, I didn’t know what foot my leash went on, the difference between a longboard or shortboard, or which direction a left or right really meant. From dropping my board on my foot to falling face-first and dry-docking my board, I’ve done it all.

This winter, I’ve surfed waves like Sunset Beach and Waimea, spots I never dreamed I’d even paddle out at, much less surf. Don’t cut yourself short, you can do it, no matter where you start or what age!