Highlights
- HM03 Surf is obtained in the Safari Zone in Fuchsia City.
- You must defeat Koga and earn the Soul Badge to use Surf outside of battle.
- Surf allows you to travel across water and access major late-game areas.
HM03 Surf is the most important Hidden Machine in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen. It allows you to travel on water, unlock optional areas, and progress toward Cinnabar Island and the Seafoam Islands. Unlike many HMs, Surf is also a powerful move in battle, making it a staple for most teams.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before You Can Get Surf
Before attempting to obtain Surf, make sure you have reached Fuchsia City. You do not need the Soul Badge to obtain Surf, but you will need it to use Surf outside of battle.
Where to Get HM03 – Surf
Step 1: Reach Fuchsia City
Progress through the game until you arrive in Fuchsia City, either via Cycling Road (Route 17) or the eastern route past Lavender Town.
Fuchsia City is home to the Safari Zone and the fifth Gym Leader, Koga.
Step 2: Enter the Safari Zone
- Go to the Safari Zone entrance in the northern part of Fuchsia City.
- Pay the entrance fee, and you will receive 500-steps to explore the area.
- Your goal is to reach the Secret House located deep inside the Safari Zone.
Step 3: Navigate to the Secret House
Inside the Safari Zone, follow these general directions:
● Move east, then north into the next area.
● Continue navigating through grassy areas and water edges.
● Locate the Secret House in the far northern section of the area 3.
Inside the Secret House, speak to the man inside. He will reward you with HM03 Surf.
How to Use Surf Outside of Battle
Simply teaching your Pokémon Surf is not enough. To use Surf outside of battle, you must defeat Koga in Fuchsia City and earn the Soul Badge.
Once you have the Soul Badge, stand in front of any body of water and select a Pokémon that knows Surf to begin traveling across it.
Surf in Battle
Surf is a Water-type move with 95 Base Power and perfect accuracy. It hits both opposing Pokémon in double battles.
Unlike most HMs, Surf is one of the best water-type moves that you can teach to your primary Water-type Pokémon. I would highly recommend teaching it to your primary Water-type for a strong, consistent attract.
FAQs
- Can I use Surf immediately after getting it?
- No. You must defeat Koga and earn the Soul Badge to use Surf outside of battle.
- Is Surf a good move for battles?
- Yes. Surf has high Base Power and excellent reliability, making it one of the best Water-type moves in the game.
- Can I remove Surf later?
- Yes, but only by visiting the Move Deleter in Fuchsia City. HM moves cannot be deleted normally.
