In surfing, the area where surfers wait for incoming waves is called the lineup.
The lineup is usually beyond the inside breaking waves, where surfers sit or lie on their boards while watching the horizon. From there, they try to identify approaching sets and position themselves for a safe, well-shaped ride. The exact location of a lineup changes with tides, swell direction, currents, and the shape of the seabed.
The lineup is not the same as the impact zone. The impact zone is where waves break with force, while the lineup is commonly the waiting area outside or beside that zone. Surfers in the lineup are expected to follow right-of-way rules and avoid dropping in on someone already riding.