Learn How to Skimboard

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

July 6, 2022

Have you ever seen the folks who run at the surf, toss a small skimboard and glide across the water? It's an excellent watersport full of fun and a few mishaps. All you need is a board and an adventurous spirit, and you’re ready to hit the water! Stop by any Gulf Shores or Orange Beach souvenir shop or grocery store and pick up a skimboard.

Some skimboard enthusiasts suggest hitting the sand and running onto the board rather than trying to leap or jump onto the board. Jumping on the board may land you on your backside on the sand or in the water. Here are a few of our tips on the best ways to skimboard. Try these out, and you’ll be skating across the water’s edge on Alabama’s white-sand beaches in no time.

1. Wait until the last wave is going back out.
2. Run down a slope to the area you want to skimboard.
3. Throw the board down in front of you on top of the thin coating of water.
4. Place your front foot a little past the middle of the board.
5. Place your back foot a little behind it.
6. Skim away, staying over the sand or heading out into the waves.
7. Skimming the waves involves a good balance as you turn the board sideways over flat surf while riding it to the next big wave.

For those who prefer riding the waves on their stomachs, grab a boogie board while you’re shopping or rent a surfboard from one of the many local outfitters for even more adventure on the water. In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, there’s a watersport for everyone. Experience a new thrill on Alabama’s beaches and try skimboarding during your next trip!