Surfing has been an integral part of human culture for thousands of years, with its roots deeply embedded in Polynesian traditions. In 1777, Captain Cook observed a native Tahitian surfing on a canoe, remarking, “I could not help concluding that this man felt the most supreme pleasure.” This sentiment captures the essence of surfing: a blend of joy, adrenaline, and personal satisfaction.
For ancient Hawaiians, surfing was revered as the sport of kings, a testament to strength, skill, and courage. Surfboards were carved from canoes and logs, enabling riders to navigate the often challenging waves with precision. However, when Protestant missionaries arrived in Hawaii, they sought to suppress surfing, viewing it as sinful. Were it not for the perseverance of Hawaiian locals, especially Duke Kahanamoku, modern surfing might not exist today.
The Father of Modern Surfing
Duke Kahanamoku wasn’t just another Hawaiian kid who loved the ocean; he was a full-blown waterman. Born in 1890, Duke grew up in Waikīkī, where he learned to swim before he could walk and started riding waves on a 16-foot, 114-pound wooden surfboard. By the time he was a teenager, he was smashing swimming records left and right, eventually earning five Olympic medals. But Duke wasn’t content with just dominating the pool—he wanted to share the stoke of surfing with the world.
In 1915, Duke introduced surfing to Australia at Freshwater Beach, crafting his board out of local timber and stunning crowds with his wave-riding skills. From there, he spread the aloha spirit globally, traveling to California, New Zealand, and even Sweden to demonstrate the art of surfing. Despite facing racism and financial struggles as an amateur athlete, Duke never lost his humility or generosity. He embodied the true spirit of surfing—not just riding waves, but living with respect, joy, and connection to the ocean.
Duke’s influence is still felt today. Modern surfing wouldn’t exist without his pioneering efforts to make the sport accessible and respected worldwide. His legacy isn’t just in the history books; it’s in every wave we ride and every moment we share the stoke with others.
What is a Surfer?
A surfer isn’t just someone who owns a board and paddles out on weekends. Being a surfer is about mindset, commitment, and a relentless obsession with chasing waves. In the old days, if you didn’t live near the coast, you didn’t surf. But now, thanks to wave pools and surf parks popping up in places like Texas and Switzerland, even landlocked thrill-seekers can get a taste of the ride.
The surf community is as diverse as the ocean itself, but here’s how it breaks down:
- Professional Surfer:
These are the Kelly Slaters and Stephanie Gilmores of the world. They’re the elite athletes, traveling the globe to compete in events like the World Surf League (WSL). They ride waves most of us can’t even fathom, pulling off moves that seem to defy physics. But it’s not all glamour—these pros train relentlessly, battle injuries, and live under the pressure of sponsorship deals and competition rankings.
- Free Surfer:
This crew doesn’t care about trophies or judges. They’re in it for the art, the adventure, and the pure love of surfing. Think Dave “Rasta” Rastovich or Asher Pacey. These guys and gals roam the planet chasing perfect waves, often filming their exploits for mind-blowing surf movies that inspire the rest of us to drop everything and hit the water.
- Specialist Surfer:
Some surfers dedicate their lives to mastering specific waves or styles. Jamie O’Brien, for example, has made Pipeline his personal playground, pushing the limits of what’s possible on one of the world’s deadliest breaks. These surfers often become synonymous with their chosen spots, earning respect from even the most hardcore locals.
- Hardcore Surfer:
These are the lifers who surf every chance they get, rain or shine, freezing water or blazing heat. They’re not chasing fame or money; they’re chasing that perfect session. Hardcore surfers often plan their entire lives around swells, working just enough to fund their next surf trip.
- Intermediate Surfer:
Confident and capable, these surfers can handle themselves in a lineup and ride most waves with style. They’re not pros, but they’re passionate and improving every session. For many, surfing is a lifelong pursuit, and that’s enough.
- Beginner Surfer:
Still figuring out how to paddle, pop up, and stay on the board, beginners are the future of the sport. Every surfer was a beginner once, but the good ones respect the lineup and know when to sit back and watch.
- Kook:
The less said about kooks, the better. They’re the oblivious, often entitled newcomers who paddle out without learning basic etiquette, drop in on waves they can’t handle, and generally make a mess of things. Don’t be a kook.
- Grommet:
The under-15 crowd, full of energy and potential. These kids are the future legends, frothing over every wave and usually shredding harder than adults twice their size.
Surfers are weather-savvy, tracking wind and swell conditions to find the best waves. Offshore winds create smooth, rideable waves, while onshore conditions are less ideal.
A list of the Best Surfers
A list of the world’s best surfers will always spark debate and often leans toward recent icons of the sport. Surfing’s vibrant history is filled with legends whose stories continue to inspire generations, and this list celebrates individuals who may not necessarily be the greatest or most successful but are among our personal favorites.
Whether you’re drawn to legends like Kelly Slater or inspired by the fearless exploits of big wave surfers like Ross Clarke-Jones, there’s something for everyone in this showcase of surfing excellence.
Andy Irons
Andy Irons wasn’t just a surfer; he was a f**ing force of nature. The guy lived and surfed like every wave could be his last. He was raw, unapologetic, and yeah, sometimes a little volatile—but that’s what made him so damn relatable. Born and bred in Hawaii, AI was fearless in heavy water. Teahupo’o, Pipe—you name it, he owned it. But he wasn’t just a big-wave guy. The man could throw down in small, punchy sht too and still crush the competition.
AI’s life wasn’t all trophies and champagne though. He battled his demons, and sadly, they caught up with him in 2010. His passing shook the surf world to its core, but his legacy? Untouchable. If you ever doubt the power of heart and grit, watch AI at Backdoor. That’s all you need to know.
Shaun Tomson
If Andy was raw energy, Shaun Tomson was smooth precision. The 1977 world champ brought a clean-cut vibe to surfing when everyone else was tripping on acid and wearing questionable boardshorts. But don’t let the squeaky-clean image fool you—Shaun was as hardcore as they come in the water. He mastered the art of tube-riding with that wide, pumping stance. Guys today still try to copy his style, but there’s only one Shaun. He turned impossible barrels into art. After surfing, he didn’t just fade into the sunset.
Acting, writing, motivational speaking—Shaun’s made his mark on way more than just the ocean.
Kelly Slater
What’s left to say about Kelly f***ing Slater? Eleven world titles. ELEVEN. Let that sink in. The man redefined what it means to be the best, and then he did it again. And now? He’s out here making waves in ways no one saw coming—literally. The Surf Ranch is his masterpiece, a wave so perfect it almost feels wrong. But don’t box Kelly in as just “the GOAT.” He’s got his hands in everything—clothing, sustainability, you name it.
Next year’s his last on tour (supposedly), but you can bet he’s not done leaving his mark on surfing. Love him or hate him, Kelly’s legacy is cemented.
Mark Richards (MR)
Mark Richards, aka MR, is the original twin-fin king. Four consecutive world titles (1979–1982) in an era when boards were clunky as hell? That’s a big f***ing deal. His knock-kneed stance looked awkward, but it worked—and that’s all that mattered. MR was unstoppable in everything from tiny Aussie beach breaks to heavy Hawaiian reef slabs. And while most pros fade into obscurity post-tour, MR is still shaping boards that pay homage to his iconic twin-fin days. Surfing history doesn’t get written without his name in bold.
Layne Beachley
Layne Beachley didn’t just break barriers for women’s surfing—she bulldozed them. Seven world titles, six of them back-to-back, and a career that spanned nearly two decades? Absolute domination. Layne wasn’t here to play nice; she was here to win. She surfed like her life depended on it, and it showed in her 29 event victories. Now, she’s running Surfing Australia, launching projects like the Awake Academy, and proving that life after the tour can be just as impactful. Layne’s legacy is proof that women’s surfing deserves every bit of respect it’s finally getting.
Mick Fanning
Mick Fanning is the guy you want in your corner, whether you’re facing a 10-foot barrel or a f***ing great white shark. Yeah, that J-Bay shark encounter? Legendary. But Mick’s story is about way more than one viral moment. Three world titles, a work ethic that’s second to none, and a knack for staying relevant post-retirement—Mick’s the real deal. These days, he’s still ripping in free surf sessions, brewing beer (Balter is legit), and staying true to his roots.
Mick’s proof that you don’t need to be flashy to be unforgettable.
Tom Carroll
Tom Carroll might be small in stature, but his presence in the lineup? Massive. Two world titles and a reputation as one of the most fearless surfers of his generation. His lip snaps at Pipeline are the stuff of legend—aggressive, precise, and straight-up gnarly.
But Tom wasn’t just about winning. In 1985, he boycotted South Africa during apartheid, sacrificing a world title shot for something way bigger than surfing. That’s integrity, plain and simple.
Gerry Lopez
Gerry Lopez is Mr. Pipeline. Full stop. Before Gerry, Pipe was a place for maniacs and wipeout reels. He turned it into a canvas for style and grace. On his “Lightning Bolt” pintails, Gerry made 10-foot barrels look like mellow Sunday strolls.
And yeah, he dabbled in Hollywood (anyone remember Conan the Barbarian?), but his real legacy is in the lineup. Every surfer chasing perfection at Pipe owes a nod to Gerry.
John John Florence (JJF)
John John Florence is the golden child who lived up to the hype. Born and bred in the shadows of Pipeline, JJF grew up surfing waves most people wouldn’t even paddle out for. And now? He’s the guy everyone’s chasing.
With two world titles and a style that’s both explosive and effortless, John John is redefining what’s possible on a surfboard. Injuries have slowed him down, but when he’s on, he’s untouchable.
The kid from the North Shore isn’t just the future—he’s the f***ing now.
Tom Curren
The man, the myth, the enigma. Curren isn’t just a three-time world champ; he’s a f*ing anomaly. The dude came back through the trials and took another world title, proving that talent mixed with an unshakable vibe can blow any modern strategy out of the water. Watching him surf, even now in his fifties, is like witnessing pure artistry—graceful, deliberate, and effortlessly stylish. That 10-point ride at J-Bay in 2014? Classic Curren. He doesn’t need to scream for attention; his surfing does all the talking.
Gabriel Medina
Brazil’s first world champ and a certified savage in the lineup. Medina’s been a force since he was grommet-sized, and his perfect heats at Hossegor are etched in surf lore. Big barrels, crazy rotations, and that fiery competitive edge—this goofy-footer lives for the heavy lefts at Pipe and Chopes. Love him or hate him, you can’t deny that Medina’s got the skill set to stack world titles like they’re stickers on his board.
Filipe Toledo
Speed, power, and innovation—all cranked to eleven. Toledo’s redefined J-Bay surfing, making even Jordy Smith’s performances look quaint. His air game is so next level it feels like gravity doesn’t apply to him. Sure, the big-wave scene isn’t his strong suit yet, but don’t sleep on Filipe. When he finds his rhythm out there, he’s going to shut up every critic who’s ever doubted his guts.
Adriano de Souza
The grinder. Adriano clawed his way out of the favelas to become Brazil’s second world champ, and his journey is a rags-to-riches tale that’ll never get old. No one outworks this guy. His 2015 title wasn’t flashy, but it was well-earned—solid surfing, no falls, and relentless determination. He’s the backbone of the Brazilian Storm and proof that grit can beat flash.
Jordy Smith
Big man, big turns, big expectations. Jordy’s been hyped as a multiple-title guy by Slater himself, but somehow, it hasn’t clicked yet. Maybe it’s the laid-back vibe masking the fire inside, or maybe he’s just too damn nice. Either way, the world’s waiting for Jordy to claim what should’ve been his years ago. Until then, we’ll enjoy his insane edits and his dominance at events like J-Bay, where he’s pure poetry in motion.
Cheyne Horan
Four-time runner-up to Mark Richards? Brutal. But Cheyne’s not one to wallow. He’s reinvented himself as a big-wave guy, surf coach, and all-around legend. From Bondi’s local breaks to his deep dives into the sport’s evolution, Horan’s legacy isn’t about the titles he didn’t win—it’s about his resilience and willingness to roll with whatever life throws at him.
Rabbit Bartholomew
They don’t make them like Rabbit anymore. The Aussie who “busted down the door” in Hawaii and took the hits—literally—for it. Rabbit’s style and swagger paved the way for surfers to step into the big leagues with confidence. And let’s not forget his role in shaping the Dream Tour. Without Rabbit, the WSL might still be contesting in slop instead of scoring perfection.
Christian Fletcher
The original punk rocker of surfing. Christian Fletcher didn’t give a f* about conforming. He took skate moves to the surf, turned aerials into an art form, and laid the groundwork for the high-performance surfing we see today. Competitive tours? Not his thing. But his influence? Unmatched. The guy was decades ahead of his time.
Ross Clarke-Jones
Over 30 years deep and still going full throttle. RCJ’s transition from contests to big-wave lunacy was seamless. From taking out The Eddie to going ballistic at Nazaré, Ross has a gear most of us can’t fathom. The man’s a machine, and his antics, both in and out of the water, are what legends are made of.
Lisa Andersen
The queen of style and the OG influencer of women’s surfing. Lisa didn’t just rack up world titles—she rewrote the playbook. From Roxy shorts to her razor-sharp turns, she brought a level of finesse that inspired a generation. For a while, it was Lisa and Slater ruling the sport, and no one else came close.
Stephanie Gilmore
Pure class. Steph is the kind of surfer you could watch all day. She’s got the titles, the style, and the grace that most can only dream of. Whether it’s peeling walls at J-Bay or mechanical perfection at the Surf Ranch, Gilmore is a masterclass in flow. She’s one of the most respected surfers in the game for a damn good reason.
Dane Reynolds
The people’s champ of free surfing. Dane never needed a contest jersey to prove he was the best. His raw, unpredictable style has made him a cult icon. While the CT wasn’t his jam, Dane’s free surf clips are still the gold standard for progressive surfing. Every wave he touches turns into a f*ing masterpiece.
Taj Burrow
Taj might be the happiest guy to never win a world title. His carefree attitude and video-first mindset made him a fan favorite. He didn’t need trophies to validate his career; his surfing did all the talking. And let’s be honest, the CT probably missed Taj more than Taj missed the CT.
Julian Wilson
Julian’s got all the talent in the world, but sometimes it feels like he’s missing that killer instinct. He’s had flashes of hunger, but it never seems to stick. Still, you can’t deny his dedication. The dude grinds harder than most, and you get the feeling it’s just a matter of time before it all clicks.
Martin Potter
Pottz was the aerial pioneer who shut the critics up with his massive ’89 title win. He dominated with flair and took surfing to new heights—literally. Now, as a WSL commentator, he’s the voice of experience, dishing out insights with the same precision he brought to his surfing. A true innovator, both then and now.
Michael Peterson
RIP, MP.
Michael Peterson burned so damn bright it was almost blinding—and maybe that’s why he couldn’t keep it going. Back in the ‘70s, MP was the guy. His barrel riding at Kirra? Untouchable. His carves? They weren’t just moves; they were lessons in how surfing could and should look. He dominated Aussie comps with the kind of intensity that makes you either love him or hate him—but you could never ignore him.
But life isn’t all perfect lines and clean breaks. MP’s story turned dark—undiagnosed schizophrenia and drug use took him off the map. He withdrew, and surfing lost one of its brightest. Gone at 59 in 2012, but not forgotten. If you surf with power and precision today, you owe MP a nod.
Bethany Hamilton
Bethany Hamilton doesn’t need your pity. Keep that soft sh*t to yourself. She’s a shark attack survivor, yeah, but that’s just a footnote in her story. At 14, she lost an arm to a tiger shark, and by 15, she was already back out there, ripping like it never happened.
Bethany’s got more guts and grace than most of us could dream of. She’s charged serious waves, competed against the best, raised a family, and still finds time to inspire people by just living her life.
Hollywood made a movie about her, but honestly, her real story blows anything scripted out of the water.
Shane Dorian
Shane Dorian? Straight-up legend. He came up with the ‘Momentum Generation,’ which, if you don’t know, shaped modern surfing. But Shane’s not the guy who rests on history. He reinvented himself, chasing—and conquering—some of the heaviest water on the planet. Jaws, Mavericks, you name it, he’s been there, and he’s charged.
Dorian’s also a family guy and a gear innovator (thank him for modern big wave safety gear).
He hates cold water, so don’t expect to see him freezing his ass off in some frigid lineup. He’s Hawaiian through and through—warm water, big barrels, bigger balls.
Mark Occhilupo
Occy. What a wild ride. The dude came up fast—burst onto the scene in ’84, won at J-Bay, and made goofy-footing look like magic. Seriously, his backhand surfing at Supertubes? It wasn’t just good; it was so good it messed with time.
But life slapped him down hard. Occy hit the couch—harder than any wipeout—and stayed there for a while. Depression, burnout, whatever you want to call it, it took him out of the game.
Then, like a phoenix rising from a pile of fcked-up couches, he came back and won the damn world title in ’99. You can’t write that sht.
Greg Long
Greg Long isn’t just a big wave surfer—he’s a f*ing tactician. Cortez Bank almost killed him (look up that wipeout—it’s gnarly), but he came back smarter, stronger, and more calculated than ever.
This guy paddles into waves most of us wouldn’t even want to look at. And he’s not just out there for himself. Greg’s the guy who’ll keep an eye on you, make sure you’re good, and then paddle into something insane like it’s no big deal. He’s proof that brains and balls can coexist.
Grant “Twiggy” Baker
Twiggy’s been charging big waves longer than some of you have been alive. Two-time Big Wave World Champ, solo traveler, and just an all-around hard case. He’s surfed some of the sketchiest spots on the planet, including Donkey Bay in Namibia before it became a buzzword.
Twig’s not one to sugarcoat things, and yeah, he’s stirred up his fair share of controversy, but he’s also the first to give props when they’re due. In the lineup, he’s the guy who watches out for everyone, and when it gets real out there, that’s the kind of person you want nearby. His spot in surfing history? Locked down.
Conclusion
In the world of surfing, where the ocean humbles even the most talented, these 30 individuals have carved their names into the sport’s history. From shaping the early days of competitive surfing to redefining what’s possible on a wave, each of them has left a legacy that resonates far beyond the shore.
Sure, debates about “the best” will always rage on—surfing thrives on passion and subjectivity, after all—but what’s undeniable is the impact these surfers have had on the culture, progression, and pure stoke of riding waves. Whether you’re inspired by their competitive dominance, fearless innovation, or sheer style, their stories remind us why we’re all drawn to the sea in the first place.
So, whether you’re paddling out for the first time or chasing the next perfect barrel, take a moment to appreciate the trail these legends have blazed. It’s not about being the best—it’s about showing up, respecting the ocean, and riding it your way.
