Sandboarding is a fantastic way to enjoy the beach while getting your adrenaline fix.
While this niche sport is usually performed on desert sand dunes, as long as you can find a steep enough slope without vegetation or other obstacles on it, you can try to ride it (pro tip: you may want to check our list of suitable sandboarding locations in the US and the rest of the world).
If you’re ready to hit the dunes, here’s a simple guide to help you get started!
What You’ll Need
Before you hit the dunes, it’s important to gather the right equipment.
Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
- A Sandboard: First things first, you need a sandboard. These are specially designed for sliding on sand, so avoid using a regular snowboard. You can often rent one at beach shops.
- Footwear: Wear some sturdy shoes—something that covers your feet well. Flip-flops are a no-go; you want something that stays on your feet while you ride. Some people prefer to slide while barefoot – at the beach, you can usually do so safely. Just make sure that the sand is not scorching hot and avoid peak heat hours in the summer.
- Wax: A little bit of wax can go a long way! It helps your board glide smoothly over the sand, making your ride more enjoyable. Sandboard wax can help reduce the friction between the surface of your board and sand to make you slide faster.
Getting the Hang of It
Once you have your gear, it’s time to learn how to ride.
If you’re new to sandboarding, start by sitting on the board. Tuck your feet in and hold on tight. This position is stable and will help you get used to the feeling of sliding down the dune.
Once you feel comfortable, try lying on your belly. This position can give you more speed and control. Just remember to drag your toes if you want to slow down!
Feeling adventurous? Go for the standing position! Bend your knees, lean a bit forward, and steer with your body. Just remember, your body will naturally want to go where your head is looking!
Tips for a Great Experience
When choosing a dune to ride, start with a gentle slope. You don’t want to launch yourself off a steep drop right away!
Sandboarding can be sweaty work, especially under the sun, so make sure to bring plenty of water with you and don’t forget to apply sunscreen every couple of hours.
After each ride, you’ll have to hike back up the dune. It can be tiring (but also a great workout!), so take your time and enjoy the view.
Have fun and don’t worry if you fall; it happens to everyone! Just laugh it off and get back on the board. Keep an eye out for other people around you to avoid collisions. And be mindful of the heat—take breaks in the shade if you need to.
So there you have it! With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy some awesome sandboarding beach adventures. Have fun out there!
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