Backwash Meaning in Surfing

Backwash occurs when a wave hits the shore and bounces back out. This returning water meets the next incoming wave to create a sudden bump. Backwash can make the wave face very unstable and difficult to ride today. It often sends a spray of water high into the air at the beach. Surfers must be careful as backwash can launch the board unexpectedly in surf. A surfer navigates a tricky backwash bump while riding toward the sand. The interaction between two waves creates a chaotic and choppy water surface. One rider falls after hitting a large backwash wave moving away from shore. Understanding backwash helps a surfer anticipate changes in the wave face near beach.