This is a rapidly growing sport enjoyed by many kayakers. Playing in surf is a great way to develop fundamental kayaking skills.

For some, kayak surfing may be a sport unto itself, while for others it is a part of a broader set of kayaking activities. Dedicated surfers tend to use specialized boats more akin to whitewater kayaks. Sea kayakers often surf in their general purpose boats as a way of developing rough water skills. The difference in equipment and objectives of kayak surfers can sometimes lead to conflict when two different groups share the same surfing area.