24 Famous Hawaiian Surfers: The Best!
It’s always up for debate, "who are the most famous Hawaiian surfers"?
We list the current most famous Hawaiian surfers, going into detail of their impact on Hawaiian surf culture and surfing as a whole.
The list of famous Hawaiian surfers is forever growing so here is our 10 best!
Most Famous Hawaiian Surfers?
Famous Hawaiian surfers include Duke Kahanamoku, Rell Sunn, Eddie Aikau, Andy Irons, Bruce Irons and Bethany Hamilton to name a few.
This list of the most famous Hawaiian surfers is forever growing! Let's get into each famous Hawaiian surfers story below in detail.
Want to find more surfers? View our list of the most famous surfers ever!
Alana Blanchard
Born: March 5, 1990
Origin: Kauai, Hawaii
Style: Professional surfer and model
About: Introduced to surfing at the age of 4 by her father, Holt, she quickly became a prominent figure in the surfing community. Blanchard's achievements include clinching first place in shortboard at the 2005 T&C Women's Pipeline Championships and winning championships in various competitions worldwide. Notably, she established the Alana Blanchard Foundation in May 2017 to support female talent in the sport of surfing. Beyond her accomplishments in the waves, Blanchard holds significant influence on social media with 1.8 million followers on Instagram and 102K subscribers on YouTube.
Achievements: Known as one of the most famous Hawaiian surfers, Alana Rene Blanchard's remarkable surfing career is punctuated by numerous achievements. In 2005, she secured first place in shortboard at the T&C Women's Pipeline Championships, marking an early triumph in her journey. Her success extended globally, winning championships in prestigious competitions like The Women's Pipeline Championships in Hawaii, The Rip Curl Girls Festival Junior Pro in Spain, The Roxy Pro Trials in Haleiwa, Hawaii, The Billabong Pro Pre Trials in Hookipa, Maui, and The Volcom Pufferfish Surf Series in Pinetrees, Kauai. Beyond her competitive prowess, Blanchard has made significant contributions off the waves, notably launching the Alana Blanchard Foundation in May 2017 to champion female talent in the sport of surfing. Her influence transcends the surf world, with a substantial presence on social media, boasting 1.8 million followers on Instagram and 102K subscribers on YouTube.
Instagram: @alanarblanchard
Andy Irons
Born: July 24, 1978 - November 2, 2010
Origin: Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii
Style: Professional surfer
About: Philip Andrew Irons, widely known as Andy Irons, was an American professional surfer born on July 24, 1978, in Lihue, Hawaii. Growing up surfing the challenging waves of Kauai alongside his brother Bruce, Irons quickly gained recognition for his exceptional skills. Over his illustrious 10-year career, he became a three-time world champion (2002, 2003, 2004) and a four-time Triple Crown of Surfing champion (2002, 2003, 2006, 2005). He achieved a total of 20 elite-tour victories and left an indelible mark on the surfing world. Irons' dominance spanned globally, winning prestigious titles and becoming the only surfer to claim victory at every venue on the ASP calendar.
Achievements: Highly regarded in the list of famous Hawaiian surfers, Andy Irons left an indelible mark on the world of professional surfing with an impressive list of accomplishments including three consecutive World Championships in 2002, 2003, and 2004. His dominance extended to the prestigious Triple Crown of Surfing, where he claimed victory four times in 2002, 2003, 2006, and 2005. Irons showcased his exceptional talent early on by becoming the Junior World Surfing Champion in 1998. Additionally, he secured victories in the US Open of Surfing twice, in 1998 and 2005. With a total of 20 wins on the WSL Championship Tour, Andy Irons' legacy was further solidified, earning him a well-deserved place as an inductee into the Surfers' Hall of Fame.
Instagram: @andyironsforever (Well Known Account Celebrating Andy’s Life)
Bethany Hamilton
Born: February 8, 1990,
Origin: Kauai, Hawaii
Style: Professional surfer, writer
About: Bethany Hamilton, born on February 8, 1990, in Lihue, Hawaii, is an American professional surfer and accomplished writer. Her inspirational journey gained international attention when she survived a shark attack in 2003, resulting in the loss of her left arm. Overcoming adversity, she not only returned to professional surfing but also shared her remarkable story in the 2004 autobiography, "Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board," later adapted into the 2011 feature film "Soul Surfer." In 2018, the documentary "Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable" explored her life, marriage to Adam Dirks, and the impact of motherhood on her surfing career inspiring other famous Hawaiian surfers.
Achievements: Bethany Hamilton has achieved remarkable milestones throughout her surfing career, earning recognition and accolades for her resilience and skill. In 2004, she received the prestigious ESPY Award, a testament to her outstanding contributions to the world of surfing. The following year, in 2005, she secured the NSSA National Helping Kids Champion title, showcasing not only her prowess on the waves but also her commitment to making a positive impact. Additionally, Hamilton demonstrated her competitive spirit by claiming 2nd place in the ASP World Junior Championships in 2008, further solidifying her status as a formidable force in the surfing community.
Instagram: @bethanyhamilton
Bruce Irons
Born: November 16, 1979
Origin: Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii
Style: Bruce Irons, often known by his nickname "BI," is an accomplished regular foot professional surfer hailing from Hanalei, Kauai. His surfing style is characterised by a dynamic and powerful approach, reflecting his deep connection with the waves of the North Shore.
Carissa Moore
Born: August 27, 1992
Origin: Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.
Style: Carissa Kainani Moore, a Hawaiian American surfer and Olympian, is renowned for her dynamic and powerful style in shortboard surfing. She has left an indelible mark on the surfing world, showcasing exceptional skills and versatility in various conditions.
About: Carissa Moore began her surfing journey at the age of five with her father off the beaches of Waikiki in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her early passion for the sport and her competitive spirit led her to numerous victories, including 11 NSSA amateur titles by the age of 16. Despite her parents' divorce, Moore's connection with her father and the ocean remained strong, motivating her to pursue her surfing dreams.
Achievements: Carissa Moore has achieved remarkable success throughout her career, earning five World Surf League (WSL) Women's World Tour Championships in 2011, 2013, 2015, 2019, and 2021. She is a three-time Triple Crown of Surfing Champion (2020, 2021, 2023), with a total of 29 WSL Championship Tour event wins. In 2020, Moore made history as the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in surfing at the Tokyo Summer Olympics, backing up her status as one of the most famous Hawaiian surfers.
Instagram: @rissmoore10
Coco Ho
Born: April 28, 1991
Origin: Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.
Style: Coco Ho is renowned for her versatile and stylish surfing, adapting seamlessly to different wave conditions. Her smooth and powerful style has earned her recognition in the world of professional surfing.
About: Coco’s father is Michael Ho, a former competitive surfer, and her uncle is Derek Ho, a world champion surfer. Coco started surfing at a young age, inheriting the passion and talent for the sport. Her commitment to competitive surfing and her vibrant personality have made her a respected figure in the surfing community.
Achievements: Coco Ho has had a successful career with notable achievements, including consistent top performances in various competitions. While her achievements are extensive, a few highlights include multiple victories in prestigious events, commendable placements in championship tours, and a reputation for her progressive and stylish approach to surfing.
Instagram: @coco_ho
Dave Kalama
Born: Newport Beach, California, U.S.
Origin: Kula, Hawaii, U.S.
Style: Versatile waterman, excelling in big wave surfing, tow-in surfing, stand-up paddle (SUP) surfing and racing, windsurfing, and outrigger canoe racing. Renowned surf and SUP board shaper.
About: His surfing career is marked by major achievements, including wins at the Windsurfing World Championships and Paddleboard World Championships. Kalama is a descendant of a noteworthy Hawaiian watermen family, with a grandfather who introduced outrigger canoe paddling to the mainland U.S. and a father who was the 1962 world-champion surfer.
Achievements: Credited with co-developing tow-in surfing techniques, popularising stand-up paddling (SUP), and contributing significantly to surf films. Known for daring big wave rides, especially at Pe'ahi ("Jaws") on Maui.
Instagram: @davekalama
Duke Kahanamoku
Born: August 24, 1890
Origin: Haleʻākala, Honolulu, Kingdom of Hawaii
Style: Duke Kahanamoku, known as the "Father of Modern Surfing," was a Hawaiian competition swimmer and a pioneering surfer. He popularised surfing internationally and showcased traditional Hawaiian surfing techniques. His legacy includes contributions to swimming, surfing, and water rescue techniques.
About: Maybe the most famous Hawaiian surfers, Duke Kahanamoku born Duke Paoa Kahinu Mokoe Hulikohola Kahanamoku emerged from a Native Hawaiian family with strong ties to the ocean. Born in 1890, just before the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, he witnessed Hawaii's transition to a U.S. territory and later statehood. Kahanamoku's family, considered lower-ranking nobles, had a rich heritage of service to Hawaiian royalty. Growing up in Waikiki, he developed exceptional surfing and swimming skills, becoming a powerful swimmer and skilled surfer.
Achievements: Duke Kahanamoku was a five-time Olympic medallist in swimming, winning gold and silver medals in 1912, 1920, and 1924. He broke world records in freestyle swimming, showcasing remarkable speed and skill. Beyond his Olympic success, Kahanamoku played a pivotal role in popularising surfing globally. He conducted surfing exhibitions during international travels, introducing the sport to new audiences. His rescue efforts using a surfboard during a capsized ship incident in Newport Beach in 1925 showcased the value of surfboards in water rescues.
Eddie Aikau
Born: May 5, 1946
Origin: Kahului, Territory of Hawaii, United States
Style: Eddie Aikau, a Hawaiian lifeguard and surfer, was renowned for his courageous and skilled big wave surfing.
About: Descendant of Hawaiian nobility and deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, he learned to surf on the shores of Kahului Harbor. In 1959, he moved to Oʻahu and began working at the Dole pineapple cannery, using his earnings to purchase his first surfboard. Aikau made history as the first lifeguard on the North Shore, stationed at Waimea Bay, where he saved over 500 lives without a single loss. He became Lifeguard of the Year in 1971 and won the Duke Kahanamoku Invitational Surfing Championship in 1977.
Achievements: Regarded as one of the most famous Hawaiian surfersEddie Aikau's legacy extends beyond his surfing prowess. He participated as a crew member on the Polynesian voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa. Tragically, in 1978, during a Hōkūleʻa voyage, the canoe capsized, and Eddie Aikau paddled toward Lānaʻi on his surfboard to seek help. His life jacket was hindering him, so he removed it, and he was never found. In honour of Eddie Aikau, the big wave surfing event "The Eddie" (Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational) was established, featuring massive waves at Waimea Bay. The event has strict criteria, held only when open-ocean swells reach a minimum of 20 feet.
Gerry Lopez
Born: November 7, 1948
Origin: Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.
Style: Gerry Lopez, known as Mr. Pipeline is celebrated for his sleek and precise surfing style.
About: Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Gerry Lopez grew up in East Honolulu, Oahu, attending Punahou School. He quickly rose to prominence in the surfing world, becoming the Hawaii State Champ at the age of 14. Lopez honed his skills at the semi-secret reefs in Aina Haina and iconic surf spots in Metro-Honolulu. His early inspiration came from surfer Paul Strauch, known for his graceful style. Lopez, along with friend Reno Abellira, began surfing Ala Moana Bowls, refining his casual style and tube riding abilities.
Achievements: Gerry Lopez's impact on surfing history is particularly tied to his achievements at the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore. He became widely recognised as the best tuberider globally, winning the Pipeline Masters competition in 1972 and 1973. Lopez played a pivotal role in commercial surfboard manufacturing, co-founding the Lightning Bolt Surfboards brand. He created the iconic Lightning Bolt jag, popularising the brand in the 1970s. As an actor, Lopez appeared in films like "Conan the Barbarian" and "Big Wednesday," often collaborating with fellow ex-surfer John Milius. He is also featured in various surfing documentaries.
Instagram: @gerrylopezsurfboards
Jamie O'Brien
Born: June 9, 1983
Origin: Kahuku, Hawaii
Style: Jamie O'Brien, commonly known as JOB, is a professional surfer with a regular stance.
About: James Duncan O'Brien, born and raised near the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore, developed a passion for surfing at a young age. Competing in local surf contests since the age of six, Jamie's early exposure to the renowned Banzai Pipeline contributed to his remarkable surfing career. His father, Australian lifeguard Mick O'Brien, played a role in sparking Jamie's interest in surfing. Despite facing challenges like a groin injury, Jamie achieved significant milestones, including a 1st place at Hansen's Pipeline Pro in 2003, victory at the 2004 Fosters Expression Trestles and Rip Curl Pipeline Masters, and triumph at the 2009 Rip Curl Invitational. Jamie also excelled in the WSL qualifying series and the championship tour.
Achievements: Jamie O'Brien's achievements include notable wins at the Pipeline Masters in 2001, the Hansen Pipeline Pro in 2003, the 2004 Fosters Expression Trestles, the Rip Curl Pipeline Masters in 2004, the Rip Curl Invitational in 2009, and the inaugural Volcom Pipe Pro in 2010. Recognised as Surfer Magazine's Boost Breakthrough Performer of the Year in 2005, Jamie has left a lasting impact on the sport.
Instagram: @whoisjob
John John Florence
Born: October 18, 1992
Origin: Honolulu, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: John "John John" Alexander Florence, hailing from Honolulu, Hawaii, is an esteemed professional surfer celebrated for his exceptional skills, particularly at Banzai Pipeline. Introduced to surfing by his mother at an early age, Florence quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the first Hawaii-born surfer to secure back-to-back world titles on the 2016 and 2017 World Surf League Men's Championship Tour. Despite facing challenges, including a broken back, Florence has earned a reputation as one of the most dominant pipe surfers of his era.
Achievements: Florence boasts an impressive surfing resume, including two WSL World Championships (2016, 2017), five Triple Crown of Surfing victories (2011, 2013, 2016, 2020, 2021), and notable wins at prestigious events like "The Eddie" Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational (2016), Billabong Pipeline Masters (2020), Michelob ULTRA Pure Gold Haleiwa Challenger (2021), and the Triple Crown of Surfing (2022). His triumphs showcase not only his technical mastery but also his resilience in overcoming injuries to consistently deliver outstanding performances on the global surfing stage.
Instagram: @john_john_florence
Kai Lenny
Born: October 8, 1992
Origin: Paia, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: Kai Lenny, born on October 8, 1992, in Paia, Hawaii, is a versatile American watersports enthusiast and professional athlete excelling in various disciplines. Lenny is recognised as a big wave surfer, stand-up paddle (SUP) surfer and racer, tow-in surfer, windsurfer, kitesurfer, and wing foiler. As a celebrity in the world of watersports, he has gained acclaim for his achievements and contributions to multiple disciplines. Currently residing on Maui, Lenny has made a significant impact on the global water sports scene.
Achievements: Kai Lenny's list of accomplishments is extensive and diverse, showcasing his mastery in different water activities. Notable achievements include being the 2013 SUP Race World Champion, 2013 SUP Wave World Champion, 2013 SUP Overall World Champion, 2013 Vice KSP Kiting World Champion, 2012 World SUP Race Champion, 2012 Hawaii Island Finals SUP Pro Winner, and Sunset Beach SUP Pro Winner. His success extends to the 2020 Nazaré Tow Surfing Challenge in Portugal, where he emerged victorious in challenging conditions.
Instagram: @kai_lenny
Keala Kennelly
Born: August 13, 1978
Origin: Kauai, Hawaii
Style: Goofy
Kolohe Andino
Born: March 22, 1994
Origin: San Clemente, California, U.S
Style: Regular
About: Kolohe Andino, born on March 22, 1994, in San Clemente, California, is an American surfer renowned for his exceptional talent and early achievements in the sport. His name, "Kolohe," meaning "little rascal" in Hawaiian, reflects the spirited approach he brings to the waves. As the son of top-ranked surfer Dino Andino, Kolohe's journey into surfing started at a young age, accompanying his father on surfing trips. Under the mentorship of professional surfer Mike Parsons, Andino rapidly ascended in the surfing world, making history by winning the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) title at the age of 15.
Achievements: Kolohe Andino's surfing career is marked by significant accomplishments. He holds the record for the most NSSA championships won by a male competitor, securing nine titles overall. In 2011, his breakthrough moment came with victories at the ASP 6-Star Quiksilver Brazil Open of Surfing and the Vans Pier Classic world tour events. Notably, he triumphed in the inaugural World Surf League (WSL) event, the WSL Surf City Pro, in 2015. In 2019, Andino earned the distinction of representing the United States in surfing at the 2020 Summer Olympics, a historic feat as the first U.S. surfer to qualify for the Olympic games. Despite being eliminated in the quarterfinals, his Olympic journey showcased his prowess on the global stage.
Instagram: @koloheandino24
Laird Hamilton
Born: March 2, 1964
Origin: San Francisco, California (moved to Hawaii as an infant)
Style: Regular
About: Raised in Hawaii, he encountered legendary surfer Bill Hamilton, who later became his adoptive father. Laird's early life was marked by a passion for surfing and a tough, outsider mentality. Hamilton's surfing career is intertwined with groundbreaking achievements, notably co-inventing tow-in surfing and successfully riding the heaviest wave ever recorded at Teahupo'o on August 17, 2000. His preferred waves include Teahupo'o, Pipeline, and Jaws. Beyond the waves, Laird Hamilton delved into modelling, gaining recognition in the fashion world. His modelling career began at 17 when he was discovered on a beach in Kauaʻi, eventually leading to contracts with prestigious publications and brands.
Achievements: He co-invented tow-in surfing, revolutionising the approach to riding colossal waves. His unparalleled courage and skill were showcased on August 17, 2000, when he successfully navigated the heaviest wave ever ridden at Teahupo'o, a testament to his mastery of the most challenging surf conditions. These accomplishments underscore Hamilton's profound impact on the evolution of surfing, solidifying his status as a legend in the surfing community.
Instagram: @lairdhamilton
Malia Manuel
Born: August 9, 1993
Origin: Kauai, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: Malia Manuel is an American professional surfer known for her exceptional skills and passion for riding the waves. Growing up surrounded by the ocean, Manuel developed a deep connection to surfing from an early age. Her natural talent and dedication have propelled her to prominence in the world of women's surfing.
Achievements: Malia Manuel has had a distinguished career in surfing since 2008, securing notable victories such as the 2012 US Open of Surfing and the 2019 Maui Pro. She has become a prominent figure in the sport, earning sponsorships from influential brands like Hurley, Nike, Rockstar Energy, Sanuk, and Mayhem surfboards.
Instagram: @maliamanuel
Mason Ho
Born: March 17, 1988
Origin: Oahu, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: Mason Ho, born on March 17, 1988, in Sunset Beach, North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii, is a professional surfer known for his innovative and freestyle approach to riding waves. Coming from a family deeply rooted in surfing—his father is surfing legend Michael Ho and his uncle is Derek Ho—Mason has been immersed in the sport since childhood. His dynamic and creative surfing style sets him apart in the surfing world.
Achievements: Mason Ho is celebrated for his unconventional and spontaneous surfing style, earning him a reputation as one of the most exciting surfers to watch. While he may not have numerous championship titles, his influence on the sport goes beyond competitive achievements. Mason is known for chasing unique and challenging waves, showcasing his passion for the pure joy of surfing.
Instagram: @cocom4debarrelkilla
Mikala Jones
Born: 1979 - 2023
Origin: Kailua, Hawaii
Style: Mikala Jones was renowned for his distinctive surfing style, characterised by an unmatched ability to navigate inside the barrels of breaking waves.
In a tragic turn of events, Mikala Jones passed away on July 9, 2023, in the Mentawai Islands Regency, Indonesia. The incident occurred while he was pursuing his passion, and a fin from his surfboard tragically sliced an artery in his leg. His untimely departure left a void in the surfing world, but his legacy lives on through the waves he rode and the images he captured. Rest In Peace Mikala.
About: Mikala Jones was more than just a surfer; he was an artist of the waves, pushing the boundaries of what could be achieved on a surfboard. Born with an innate connection to the ocean, he translated his passion into not only mastering the art of surfing but also becoming a visual storyteller. His unique perspective, often showcased through his photography and videos shot from within the crashing waves, garnered him widespread acclaim and a dedicated following in the surfing community.
Achievements: Mikala Jones achieved iconic status in the surfing world, leaving an indelible mark with his fearless approach and innovative contributions. His ability to capture awe-inspiring moments from within the barrels set him apart. Whether riding the waves of the North Shore in Hawaii or exploring remote surf breaks around the globe, Mikala's adventurous spirit and commitment to his craft made him a true legend in the surfing community.
Instagram: @mikalajones__
Nathan Florence
Born: March 10, 1993
Origin: North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: Nathan Florence is a professional surfer recognised for his exceptional skills in big-wave riding. Growing up in the heart of the surfing world, Florence has been immersed in the ocean from a young age, honing his talent in some of the most challenging waves. Known for his fearless approach to massive surf and his dedication to pushing the limits, Nathan Florence has become a prominent figure in the world of big-wave surfing.
Achievements: Nathan Florence's achievements are closely tied to his prowess in conquering substantial waves and his contributions to the progression of big-wave surfing. While he may not have pursued traditional competitive surfing, Florence has made a significant impact through his performances in surf films and by consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible in heavy wave conditions. His commitment to riding massive waves and exploring new frontiers has earned him respect within the surfing community.
Instagram: @nathan_florence
Rell Sunn
Born: July 31, 1950 - 1998
Origin: Makaha, Oahu, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: Rell Sunn, born on July 31, 1950, in Makaha, Oahu, Hawaii, was a pioneering professional surfer, often referred to as the "Queen of Makaha." A true waterwoman, she excelled not only in traditional surfing but also in bodysurfing, tandem surfing, and canoe paddling. Sunn played a crucial role in breaking gender barriers in surfing, inspiring future generations of female surfers. Her vibrant spirit, love for the ocean, and dedication to her community left a lasting legacy.
Achievements: Rell Sunn's legacy extends beyond traditional competitive achievements. She was a five-time women's longboard champion at the Makaha International Surfing Championships. However, her impact on the surfing world goes beyond accolades, as she was a trailblazer for women in the sport, advocating for gender equality and paving the way for female surfers to be recognised and respected.
Shane Dorian
Born: July 19, 1972
Origin: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: Shane Dorian is a highly accomplished big-wave surfer, former professional surfer, and all-around waterman. Dorian is known for his fearless approach to challenging waves and his contributions to the progression of big-wave surfing. Beyond his surfing career, he has also ventured into business and is actively involved in ocean-related environmental initiatives.
Achievements: Shane Dorian has an impressive list of achievements in big-wave surfing, including being a standout performer at the treacherous break of Jaws in Maui. He has received accolades for his performances in prestigious big-wave competitions and has been at the forefront of pushing the limits in some of the most challenging surf breaks around the world.
Instagram: @shanedorian
Sunny Garcia
Born: January 14, 1970
Origin: Wahiawā, Oahu, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: Sunny Garcia, born Vincent Sennen Garcia on January 14, 1970, in Wahiawā, Oahu, Hawaii, is a legendary Hawaiian surfer and former professional surfer. He gained widespread recognition for his powerful and aggressive style of surfing. Sunny has had a significant impact on the sport, particularly in the realm of competitive surfing, where he enjoyed a successful career.
Achievements: Sunny Garcia's achievements include being crowned the ASP World Champion in 2000. Throughout his career, he secured numerous victories in various competitions, showcasing his dominance in both powerful reef breaks and beach breaks. Garcia's competitive prowess and contributions to the sport have solidified his status as one of Hawaii's surfing icons.
Instagram: @sunnygarcia
Titus Kinimaka
Born: February 1, 1963
Origin: Kauai, Hawaii
Style: Regular
About: Titus Kinimaka is a highly respected figure in the world of surfing. He is renowned for his expertise in big-wave surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Kinimaka has played a crucial role in the development and popularisation of tow-in surfing, particularly at the infamous big-wave spot, Peahi (Jaws), on the island of Maui.
Achievements: Titus Kinimaka is celebrated for his pioneering contributions to tow-in surfing, co-innovating the use of personal watercraft to access and ride massive waves. His fearlessness in the face of giant surf has earned him admiration and respect within the surfing community. Kinimaka's legacy extends beyond competitions, as he has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of big-wave riding.
Instagram: @kinimakasurfing
Native Famous Hawaiian Surfers
- David Kawānanakoa
- Edward Abnel Keliʻiahonui
- George Freeth
- Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole
- Kaʻiulani
- Naihe
- Pākī
Famous Hawaiian Surf Spots
- Pipeline (Oahu)
- Waimea Bay (Oahu)
- Honolua Bay (Maui)
- Jaws/Peahi (Maui)
- Haleiwa (Oahu)
Does Everyone Surf in Hawaii?
Surfing is a popular activity deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, but not everyone in Hawaii surfs.
While many residents enjoy surfing, people in Hawaii, like anywhere else, have diverse interests, and not everyone may participate in this water sport.
Preferences for water activities can vary, with some opting for swimming, snorkelling, or other pursuits over surfing.
Why don't Hawaiians want non-natives surfing in Hawaii?
The surf spots are very competitive to get good waves. Hawaiians and locals don't like tourists and visitors interfering with their recreation.
Additionally, there's a concern about inexperienced surfers posing safety risks to themselves and others in the challenging Hawaiian waves.
The desire to preserve the authenticity and local culture of surfing in Hawaii can also contribute to a preference for limiting non-natives' access to certain surf spots.
Summing It Up: What To Do Now
Now you have a vast list of the most famous Hawaiian surfers, be sure to check out famous surfers from countries around the world such as New Zealand and South Africa!
If your interested in learning more about surfing discover our many guides that will inform you on your surfing journey. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook & Instagram to stay informed on our amazing surf shots and stories shared from surf creators around the world!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best Hawaiian surfer of all time?
Duke Kahanamoku is widely regarded as one of the best Hawaiian surfers of all time. He is often referred to as the "Father of Modern Surfing" and won multiple Olympic gold medals in swimming.
Who was the surfer that died in Hawaii?
Eddie Aikau, a renowned Hawaiian surfer and lifeguard, tragically lost his life in 1978 during a rescue mission in the Pacific Ocean. His legacy is honoured in the big wave surfing event known as the Eddie Aikau Invitational.
Who is the legendary surfer in Hawaii?
Duke Kahanamoku is often referred to as the legendary surfer in Hawaii. His contributions to the sport of surfing and his cultural impact have solidified his legendary status.
Who is the famous surfer in Waikiki?
Duke Kahanamoku is the famous surfer associated with Waikiki. He popularised surfing in Waikiki and played a key role in introducing the sport to the world.
Why is Hawaii popular with surfers?
Hawaii is popular with surfers because of its world-class waves, consistent swell, and diverse surf breaks. The islands offer a variety of surfing conditions suitable for surfers of all skill levels, making it a Mecca for those passionate about the sport.
Who is the famous surfer statue in Hawaii?
A statue of Duke Kahanamoku, located in Waikiki, is a famous surfer statue in Hawaii. The statue serves as a tribute to his influence on the sport and his role in popularising surfing in the islands.
