You can tell the more experienced paddlers by the confidence they have when paddling in the waves. They know exactly where to place the paddle and their body to use the force of the wave for support.
Notice if it's easer to stay in balance.
I think you will find that if feels a lot more secure when you are rotated towards the paddle.
If you learned to move your pelvis to help you paddle, it will feel natural to rotate towards the wave.