Cold water surfing is better than drugs

What if I told you cold water surfing is better than drugs? And by cold, I mean water below 60°F (16°C), in case you were wondering. Oh yes—today we’re talking about the surprising perks of winter surfing.

Summer’s positively over in the Northern Hemisphere. In other regions, water temperature never gets particularly comfortable either.

And judging by the rate of people seeking recommendations for more tropical surf spots, some of us are wondering whether winter surfing is going to be worth it.

Booties, gloves, hoods—oh, so much more gear to keep you comfortable in the ocean, making surfing so much more uncomfortable.

Surely, there must be some silver lining to this cold-water surfing situation? Yes, there is!

Better surf, fewer people

First of all, some cold-water breaks like Northern California, New Zealand, and the UK work better during this period. They get more consistent swell, less wind, and fewer flat-so days. The storms that we don’t appreciate on land make for some perfect surf. Well, “perfect” surf is somewhat debatable, because some of us thrive in smaller-than-2ft summer surf—but objectively, surf gets a boost.

The colder it gets, the emptier the lineup gets too. Fewer surf schools are out, fewer people decide to learn when it’s colder outside, and fewer surfers in general find surfing in cold water appealing. Even the most popular spots that see 50 people fight for a wave suddenly feel more manageable.

Being one of those surfers who do make it out immediately earns you brownie points that you can cash in on your way to becoming a local. It feels good to be part of this smaller group of cold-water surfers. You’re a real surfer now!

As for feeling good physically, it can be literal. The cold causes blood vessels to constrict, then dilate when you warm up. Over time, this may improve circulation, lower inflammation, and help with muscle recovery.

Welcome to the DEP Effect

Now, welcome to the DEP effect (we made it up). Here’s where cold-water surfing will not only toughen you up physically and mentally, but can make you feel ecstatic.

D is for Dopamine

There are several studies showing that immersion in cold water—especially below 60°F (15°C)—can increase dopamine by up to 250%. Dopamine is your motivation + reward + feel-good neurotransmitter. This is why people report feeling energized and positive after a cold surf or plunge, even hours later.

E is for Endorphins

Cold exposure causes a short burst of endorphins, your body’s natural opioids. This can lead to feelings of euphoria, reduced anxiety, and even a sense of being “floaty” or mildly high afterward. If you’re into running, it’s similar to the “runner’s high.”

P is for Parasympathetic Rebound

The initial cold-water shock activates the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight), but afterward, your parasympathetic system (rest and digest) kicks in hard. And this rebound creates a sensation of deep calm, clarity, and presence. Some surfers describe it as “ocean meditation.”

Are we saying that cold-water surfing is better than drugs? I guess we are.