How to Hang a Surfboard on a Wall

You can hang a surfboard on a wall by using a premade rack, building a simple dowel rack, or setting up a hanging strap system. The method you choose depends on whether you want a horizontal or vertical display and how much custom work you are comfortable with.

 

Many surfers share the concern of accidentally scratching or denting their prized surfboard during the mounting process. According to Almond Surfboards & Designs, approximately 75% of surfboard dings occur on land, often during handling, transportation, or storage, rather than while surfing in the ocean.

 

These damages, though seemingly minor, can compromise the board's structural integrity and performance.  With the right precautions in place, mounting your surfboard becomes not just safe but also purposeful. So why should you consider hanging your board on a wall, and what advantages can it bring to your space?

 

Why Hang a Surfboard on a Wall?

Here are the main reasons surfers choose to mount their boards on the wall:

Saves space in small homes or apartments

Surfboards take up a lot of floor space, especially in tight living areas. By mounting your surfboard on a wall, you free up valuable room that can be used for furniture, storage, or simply keeping your space uncluttered. For surfers living in flats or shared houses, wall mounting is a practical way to keep boards out of the way without sacrificing accessibility.

 

Protects the board from floor damage

Leaving a surfboard on the floor risks scratches, dents, and even warping if it leans at the wrong angle. Pets, children, or even daily movement through the space can easily bump into it. Wall mounting provides a secure resting place that prevents accidental damage and keeps your board in surf-ready condition.

 

Doubles as décor and a conversation piece

A surfboard has more than practical value; it’s also a work of art. Mounted on a wall, it becomes a design element that reflects your lifestyle and personality. Whether you want a minimalist look with a single board or a feature wall with multiple boards, it can add a coastal, laid-back vibe to your interior and spark conversation with visitors.

 

Keeps the board accessible for regular use

Unlike storing a board in a shed or garage, wall mounting keeps it within easy reach. You can grab it quickly when the surf is good and hang it back up when you return. This balance of function and style makes wall mounting ideal for surfers who want both practical storage and a display that looks great year-round.

 

What You Need Before Hanging a Surfboard?

Before drilling into the wall, it’s important to gather the right tools and think about the type of wall you’re working with. This ensures the surfboard stays secure and prevents damage to both your board and your home.

 

Tools and Materials

You don’t need a huge toolbox, but having the basics ready will make the job smoother:

• Drill – essential for making clean holes in drywall, brick, or wood.
• Screws and wall anchors – anchors prevent the mounts from slipping out, especially on drywall.
• Surfboard wall racks or hooks – designed to support the weight of your board without scratching it.
• Tape measure – to mark accurate spacing between mounts.
• Level – ensures your surfboard isn’t tilted once it’s on the wall.
• Pencil – for marking drill points clearly.

 

Choosing the Right Mounting Option

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The best option depends on how you want your surfboard displayed and how much space you have:

• Surfboard racks – sturdy and padded, designed to hold one or multiple boards. Check out our Freestanding & Wall-Mounted Board Racks Collection, ideal for garages or surf shops.
• Wall mounts – minimalistic brackets that keep the focus on the surfboard. Perfect for living rooms or bedrooms where the board doubles as décor.
• DIY solutions – some surfers create mounts using PVC pipes, padded wood blocks, or strong adhesive hooks. These can work well if done carefully, but they may not last as long as professional mounts.

 

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Hang a Surfboard on a Wall?

Here are the steps in hanging a surfboard on a wall: 

Step 1: Pick the Right Location

• Choose a wall that is strong enough to support the weight of your surfboard. Brick, concrete, or studs behind drywall work best.
• Avoid areas with direct sunlight, heat, or humidity, as these can damage the board over time.
• Decide on the purpose: for display, place it at eye level in a living room or office; for storage, higher placement in a garage or spare room may work better.
• Check for clearance around furniture or doors, so the board isn’t accidentally bumped.

 

Step 2: Measure and Mark the Wall

• Use a tape measure to determine where your mounts or hooks should go. The distance will depend on the length of your surfboard. For most boards, the mounts should be spaced about one-third of the board’s length apart.
• Hold the surfboard against the wall to visualise placement before drilling.
• Use a pencil and a spirit level to mark the anchor points. This ensures the board will sit evenly and look neat on the wall.
  Double-check spacing and alignment before moving on.

 

Step 3: Install Wall Mounts or Racks

• If mounting on drywall, first drill pilot holes at the marked points to prevent cracking.
• Insert wall anchors to give extra support and prevent screws from pulling out. For wooden studs or masonry walls, you may not need anchors.
• Secure the surfboard racks, hooks, or brackets tightly using screws. Make sure each mount is firmly in place and level with the other.
• For heavy longboards, use reinforced mounts or multiple brackets to distribute the weight.

 

Step 4: Place the Surfboard

• Carefully lift the surfboard and rest it on the installed rack or hooks.
• Make sure the board is balanced in the centre and not tilting to one side.
• If using padded racks, adjust so the padding contacts the board evenly, protecting the finish from scratches.
• Gently test the stability by giving the board a light push. If it wobbles, recheck the mounts and tighten screws.

 

Types of Surfboard Wall Mounts

Here are the most common surfboard wall mounts you can use, each offering a different balance of style, space, and function.

Horizontal Mounts

Horizontal mounts let you display the entire design of your surfboard, making them a favorite for living rooms, shops, or offices. They usually require two brackets spaced along the board’s length, giving solid support and balance.

For a stylish and durable option, consider The Sun Rack, designed to hold your board securely while adding a natural, surf-inspired look to your space. This style is also great if you want to hang multiple boards stacked above each other, turning a wall into a surf-themed feature.

 

Vertical Mounts

Vertical mounts are a smart way to save space, positioning your surfboard upright against the wall. Perfect for smaller rooms, garages, or hallways, they create a tall, sculptural look while keeping the board secure. Longboards and vintage boards especially benefit from this style.

The Spirit Rack makes it easy to display your board safely and stylishly, turning even a compact wall into a striking surf-inspired feature.

 

Angled Display Mounts

Angled surfboard mounts add a decorative touch, placing the surfboard at a tilt for a more dynamic look. They are often found in surf shops, cafés, or themed interiors where atmosphere matters. The angled position highlights both the rails and part of the deck, giving the board extra presence and complementing coastal décor.

The Solo Rack lets you achieve this stylish display while keeping your board secure, making it a perfect choice for adding a surf-inspired accent to any room.

 

Mount, Protect, and Showcase Your Board

Mounting a surfboard on the wall does more than free up floor space. It protects your board from accidental dings, keeps it easily accessible, and turns it into a statement piece that reflects your lifestyle. By choosing the right mounting system and taking careful installation steps, we ensure your board stays safe while adding both function and style to your space, making wall mounting a practical and visually appealing solution.

 

At Living in Sunshine, we offer a range of high-quality surf gear and surfboard racks to help you display your board safely and stylishly. With racks designed for easy installation and accessories that enhance your surfing setup, we provide everything you need to keep your board protected and your space surf-inspired. Check out our Surfboard Racks & Surf Accessories Collection today to find the perfect solution for your home or surf setup.

 

FAQs

 

How can you hang a surfboard on the wall without using nails?

In hanging a surfboard, you can use heavy-duty Command strips, some of which are rated to hold 20 pounds or more. Attach the strips to a hanger or bracket system so the board can be securely mounted to the wall without drilling.

 

How to attach a surfboard without a roof rack?

If your car doesn’t have a roof rack, you can secure your surfboard directly to the roof using ratchet straps. Loop the straps around the board and anchor them inside the car for stability. Keep in mind that the board may shift slightly during transit, so make sure it is tightened as securely as possible.

 

What is the best way to hang a surfboard horizontally?

Use two padded wall mounts spaced about one-third of the board’s length apart to evenly distribute weight. Ensure the board is level and consider reinforced brackets for heavier longboards to prevent sagging or stress.

 

Is it safe to hang a surfboard in a bathroom or damp area?

No. Moisture can warp the board, weaken materials, and cause mold over time. Always choose a cool, dry location with good ventilation for wall mounting.