Turtle Roll Technique in Surfing: What It Is, How to Do, and When to Use It

The turtle roll, also known as the turtle technique, is an essential manoeuvre that allows surfers using large-volume boards—such as longboards or soft tops—to safely pass through broken waves. This helps them get past the impact zone and reach the peak or lineup, where surfable waves form.

It’s a particularly useful technique for beginners, as large boards are not suitable for performing the duck dive—a manoeuvre reserved for shorter, more agile boards.

Why is it important to learn the turtle roll technique?

Mastering the turtle roll not only improves your experience in the water, but also ensures greater safety and paddling efficiency when heading to the lineup. Key benefits include:

• It allows you to reach the lineup with less physical effort, conserving energy for catching waves.
• It helps you keep hold of your board, a basic rule of surf safety and etiquette.
• It protects both you and others from accidents caused by runaway boards.
• It boosts your autonomy and confidence, especially in medium or large wave sessions.

Step-by-step: how to perform the turtle roll

Here is a clear and structured guide to properly executing this technique:

1. Paddle towards the breaking wave

Move decisively toward the incoming whitewater. It’s important not to stop or slow your paddling.

2. Prepare as the wave approaches

When you’re about 2 to 3 metres from the wave, grab the rails of your board firmly, with your hands positioned on the sides at chest level.

3. Take a breath and flip the board

Take a deep breath and roll both your body and the board at the same time. The board should end up upside down, covering and protecting you from the wave’s impact.

4. Hold the board tight

While underwater, keep the board close to your body with your arms bent. This helps prevent the current from dragging you or pulling the board away.

5. Wait for the turbulence to pass

Stay submerged for a few seconds as the wave passes over you and the board. You’ll feel turbulence, but if you hold on properly, you’ll come out unscathed.

6. Flip the board back and keep paddling

Once the whitewater has passed, flip the board back to its normal position and climb on quickly to continue paddling toward the peak.

When should you use the turtle roll technique?

Use it when:

• Waves have already broken and are coming at you with force.
• You’re in deep enough water to submerge safely without hitting the bottom.
• You’re using a large or high-volume board. 

Avoid using it when:

• You’re in shallow water (waist-deep or less), where it’s safer to walk the board out.
• You’re still learning at the shore and not yet confident with paddling.

Learning the turtle roll technique

Learning and refining the turtle roll will help you face the ocean with more confidence and progress faster in your surfing journey. If you’re just getting started or using larger boards, this skill will be one of your best allies for reaching the lineup, avoiding frustration, and making the most of every session.

At Oceanside, your surf school in Gran Canaria, we offer surf lessons and help you improve your technique—no matter your current level.