Many people fear surfing because they fear the water and surf.
Even if you take part in other water activities, you may still feel uncomfortable with the ocean and waves. This is typically due to not understanding the movement and forces of the water. Getting hit by the face of a wave, even a small wave, can knock the wind out of you. Yet it could have been easily avoided by moving slightly to one side or ducking the wave. It's all a matter of reading the water.