Short Board

The board that has changed surfing as we know it.  If you are ripping it up on the long board try stepping up to a shorter board.  The short board is for serious surfers only.  Ideal for 3' - 10' surf.

Long Board

The standard beginner's board.  Although for beginners, capable of many moves by advanced surfers.  The long board is good for most surfing up to about 6'.

Fun/Hybrid

Relatively new and continuously evolving innovations in boards that combine strengths of both short and long boards, offering more versatility in many wave conditions.  The hybrid boards are thicker than short boards and offer more design variations.  The board has become a favorite for many highly skilled surfers in areas with relatively small surf.   Other variations include the thruster, fish, and egg.  Ideal surfing conditions 2' to 6.'

Tanker/Tandem

Usually 9' - 12' and the mini-tanker is as small as 8'.  Thicker for more flotation and easier paddling.  Although tempting, the tanker is too cumbersome for many surfers.  Aka: Log.

Gun

Big wave board for anything over 10.'  The board is long, narrow and pointed at both ends.  When the water touches longer rail and less board it results in more speed.  If you are surfing anything bigger than 10' consider a gun or variation.  Aka: "elephant gun" and "rhino chaser."

Tow-in Board

Get yourself at jet-ski, tow rope, a board, some very trustworthy friends, and you're ready to ride waves too big and powerful for standard paddle-in surfing.  Surfers are now towing into waves with face heights larger than 60 feet.  Popularized in the late 1990's.  Similar to sky-diving, certification is required.  Surf 15' + waves.

Body Board

Great fun for most ages and many wave sizes.  Shore breaks are great for body boarding basically because there are usually fewer surfers and the fun is short distance away!  Most boards have no skeg or fins which allow the board to rotate.  Swim fins are usually worn especially in Hawaii. Aka: Boogie board. 

Stand Up Paddle

The concept is centuries old but in the past decade SUP has exploded and you can thank Hawaii for its popularity. The SUP board is relatively flat and wide and comes in varying lengths and thickness. The deck is covered with a sturdy deck pad and you use a paddle. Stand up paddling provides a great full-body workout.  Many surfers and non-surfers use SUP as exercise or relaxation when waves aren't available.