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Surfboard Maintenance

Keeping your surfboard cleaned and freshly waxed is key for having the best and safest ride.

Surfboard maintenance is essential for surfers of any level, and wax is one of the most significant elements that surfers rely on to stick to their boards. Naturally over time, wax loses its adhesion properties and starts to become dark – meaning it must be removed and reapplied. Stripping your board of the old wax and applying new coats as needed will take your rides to the next level. 

Follow the steps below for more on how to wax a surfboard, keeping both the environment and your optimal surf experience in mind.


How to Clean a Surfboard:

  1. Melt the old wax. Pro tip from Jamie O’Brien, pro surfer and founder of Turtle Bay Resort’s Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience: “The easiest and most environmentally-friendly way to remove wax from your board is to first place your board deck up in direct sunlight for 15-20 minutes to soften the wax and make it easier to remove.” If it’s a cloudy day, pour warm water on the board or blow hot air from a hairdryer evenly along the board to loosen the wax.
  2. Scrape off the wax. Use your wax comb–a tool with special edges made for this job–and scrape off the old surfboard wax. If you don’t have a wax comb, a credit card can work in a pinch. Never use a metal scraper with sharp edges, though, or you could ruin your board.
  3. Apply your preferred surfboard cleaner. To respect our ecosystem we recommend natural citrus-based products or even coconut oil, avoiding harsh chemicals. Wipe your board in a pattern – nose to tail or rail to rail – with a clean cloth or sponge. Be sure to follow the directions on the label of the surf wax remover and test in a small area of your board first.
  4. Apply the new wax. Wait until the board cools down before you reapply a fresh coat to avoid smearing the new wax,” says Jamie O’Brien. Don’t miss any spots!
  5. Surf! Get the most out of your newly waxed surfboard by hitting the waves.


Turtle Bay Resort’s Surf House and Watershed are stocked with wax combs, eco-friendly cleaners, and all the equipment necessary for taking care of your surfboard. Now that you know how to wax a surfboard, you’re ready to catch your gnarly waves on the North Shore!