Dudes and dudettes! Planning a surf trip to Cape Town? Rad! But before you paddle out, let’s get you stoked on the local lingo. Cape Town has a unique blend of languages and cultures, which has created a totally awesome slang scene.Knowing a few key phrases will not only help you understand the locals but also make you feel like a true insider.

Here’s a quick guide to some essential Cape Town slang:

  • Bru: This is like saying “bro” or “dude.” It’s a friendly term used to address guys, and sometimes even girls. “Howzit,bru?” is a common greeting. You’ll hear this one a lot, especially in the surf lineup.
  • Lekker: This is probably the most used word in Cape Town. It means “nice,” “cool,” “awesome,” or basically anything positive. “That wave was lekker!” “This braai is lekker!” You get the idea.
  • Howzit: A casual greeting, like “hi” or “how’s it going?” You’ll hear this everywhere, from the surf lineup to the local market.
  • Braai: This is a South African barbecue, and it’s a big deal! Expect lots of meat, good vibes, and maybe a few cold ones. “Come for a braai at my place tonight!”
  • Shame: Don’t worry, this isn’t always used in a negative way. It can express sympathy, endearment, or even admiration. “Shame, that little kid is so cute!” “Shame, that was a gnarly wipeout!”
  • Eish: This is an exclamation of surprise, frustration, or excitement. “Eish, that wave was massive!” “Eish, I missed my flight!”
  • Just now: This doesn’t actually mean “right now.” It’s more like “soon,” “later,” or “eventually.” “I’ll be there just now.” (Don’t hold your breath!)
  • Now now: This is similar to “just now,” but it implies a slightly shorter timeframe. “I’m coming now now.” (Maybe in a few minutes…)
  • Ag man: An expression of disappointment, frustration, or resignation. “Ag man, I broke my board!”
  • Sharp: This means “cool” or “okay.” “Sharp, I’ll meet you there.”
  • Kiff: Another word for “cool” or “awesome.” “That new board is kiff!”

Bonus Round: Surfing Specific Slang

  • Dumping: When the waves are big and powerful. “The waves are dumping today!”
  • Pit: The barrel or tube of a wave. “I got pitted on that last wave!”
  • Grom: A young surfer. “Look at that grom shredding!”
  • Wipeout: A fall from your board. “I had a massive wipeout!”
  • Bailing: Jumping off your board to avoid a wipeout. “I had to bail on that wave!”

Now that you’re armed with some local lingo, you’re ready to hang ten with the locals and experience the true spirit of Cape Town. Don’t be shy to use these phrases – the locals will appreciate your effort and you’ll have a lekker time!

Cape Town slang South African slang Surfer slang