From James McMahon, of Bridgehampton’s Salty Sessions:

Surf Etiquette 101

If you roll up to just a random Hamptons beach, the main rule is don’t surf in front of the lifeguard stands. Between the flags is swimming-only. Lifeguards will whistle you out if you’re in there—it’s dangerous to have big boards near swimmers.

Most of the regular spots around here aren’t crowded. You might see one person on the whole beach. Just don’t paddle right next to them. Whoever is closer to the start of the wave has the right of way.

As you get into more advanced levels, there’s a lot of nuance. At places like the Jetties in East Hampton, you get a mini point break with rocks and a wave that only breaks in one direction. That gets very localized. The locals sit at the top of the wave and rotate through — but not always nicely. If you're not from there, they might paddle around you and take the wave.

When Locals Get Protective

Surfing at a high level can be tough because often your first contact with locals around the world is negative. You spend thousands to travel somewhere, paddle out on a perfect day, and locals won't even let you touch a wave. They'll turn you away from the beach, throw you out of the water, or fight you.

It’s not really like that in Sagaponack, but Montauk can have days like that. To get a set wave at a good spot on a good day, you need to know somebody. And that could takes years of contact.

Making Friends with Surfers

Most surfers are different outside the water. They're chill, friendly, but in the water it's territorial. If you want to meet people, it’s usually at more casual, early bars. Surf Lodge is popular, but surfers aren't at late-night spots like Murph’s — we’re up early, in bed by 10:30

Where We Actually Hang Out

Honestly, a lot of us don’t do bars at all. We'll pack up the truck, drive on the beach after six, crack open a few beers at sunset, fish, listen to music. That's our bar. It’s our own crew of 15 or so friends. I’d rather do that than pay $40 for a random beer in town.

Inside Tip 📌

If you want to make connections more quickly, book a lesson at a recommended surf school. It’s one of the best ways to get the lay of the land — and maybe get a local introduction or two.

Contact

🌐 Salty Sessions



About Salty Sessions

For over a decade, Salty Sessions has held the only license for Ocean Road's breaks in Bridgehampton.

Founder James McMahon staffs the school with lifeguard-certified pro surfers who speak three languages and teach students from ages 3 to 75+.

Small group lessons, sunrise privates, and summer camps draw families from across the East End.

The reason is simple: safe, fun instruction that adapts to every student's needs.

Lead-in Image

James McMahon in Bocas del Toro, Panama; Photo by @ireneespuny / Instagram