The Most Famous Hawaiian Surfer, Ranked

Choose the surfer you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 24, 2024 07:33
Hawaii, with its rich surfing heritage, is home to many of the sport's most legendary figures. Creating a ranking of the most well-known surfers from this area can provide insights into the sport's history and culture, demonstrating how different individuals have shaped and been shaped by these islands' waves. Such a list helps celebrate these athletes' achievements and influence within the global surfing community. By participating in the voting process for the most famous Hawaiian surfer, users engage with the sport's vibrant legacy. Each vote contributes to a broader understanding of what makes a surfer not just talented, but also memorable and influential. This active engagement helps ensure that the list remains reflective of both historical significance and current favorites.

Who Is the Most Famous Hawaiian Surfer?

  1. 1
    69
    votes

    Duke Kahanamoku

    Known as the father of modern surfing, Duke Kahanamoku was a native Hawaiian who popularized the ancient Hawaiian sport of surfing around the world in the early 20th century.
    • Olympic Medals: 5
    • Nickname: The Big Kahuna
  2. 2
    31
    votes

    Eddie Aikau

    A legendary Hawaiian lifeguard and surfer, Eddie Aikau was famous for his big wave surfing and for his heroic rescue efforts in the big surf.
    • Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational: The Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau
    • Motto: Eddie Would Go
  3. 3
    24
    votes

    Gerry Lopez

    Gerry Lopez, also known as Mr. Pipeline, is a legendary surfer known for his mastery of the Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii. He is also an accomplished snowboarder and surfboard shaper.
    • Nickname: Mr. Pipeline
    • Contributions: Surfboard shaping
  4. 4
    23
    votes

    Bethany Hamilton

    Bethany Hamilton is a professional surfer who survived a shark attack in 2003, losing her left arm. She has since become an inspiration through her return to professional surfing.
    • Inspirational Story: Survived shark attack
    • Movie: Soul Surfer
  5. 5
    19
    votes

    Carissa Moore

    Carissa Moore is a professional Hawaiian surfer and a multiple-time World Surf League Champion. She is known for her progressive surfing style.
    • World Titles: 5
    • Olympic Gold Medal: 2020
  6. 6
    7
    votes

    Sunny Garcia

    Sunny Garcia is a professional surfer from Hawaii known for his powerful style and competitive prowess. He won the World Surf League Championship in 2000.
    • World Title: 2000
    • Triple Crown Wins: 6
  7. 7
    0
    votes

    John John Florence

    John John Florence is a professional surfer known for his remarkable tube riding skills and aerial maneuvers. He is a two-time World Surf League Champion.
    • World Titles: 2
    • Hometown: Haleiwa, Hawaii
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    Laird Hamilton

    An American big-wave surfer, Laird Hamilton is known for his innovative surfing techniques and for being a pioneer in the sport of tow-in surfing.
    • Innovation: Tow-in surfing
    • Spouse: Gabrielle Reece
  9. 9
    0
    votes

    Andy Irons

    Andy Irons was a professional surfer from Hawaii who won three World Championship titles. He was known for his intense rivalry with Kelly Slater.
    • World Titles: 3
    • Rival: Kelly Slater
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Rell Sunn

    Rell Sunn, also known as the 'Queen of Makaha,' was a pioneering female surfer and lifeguard in Hawaii. She was a beloved figure in the surfing world for her grace in and out of the water.
    • Nickname: Queen of Makaha
    • Legacy: Menehune Surf Contest Organizer

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Hawaiian surfer. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Surfer is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2213 views
  • 173 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Surfer once every 24 hours. The rank of each Surfer is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Hawaiian Surfer

Duke Kahanamoku
Rank #1 for the most famous Hawaiian surfer: Duke Kahanamoku (Source)
Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing. The islands have a rich history of wave riding, which dates back centuries. Surfing is more than a sport here; it is a way of life. The ocean is a central part of Hawaiian culture. The waves tell stories, and the surfers listen.

In ancient Hawaii, surfing was a skill for both men and women. Chiefs and commoners alike took to the waves. Surfing was also a way to settle disputes. Competitions were held to show who had the most skill. The best surfers were respected and honored.

The surfboards used in ancient Hawaii were different from those used today. They were made from local woods like koa and wiliwili. These boards were heavier and longer. Surfing on them required great strength and balance.

The modern era of surfing began in the early 20th century. Visitors to Hawaii saw the local surfers and were amazed. They took the sport back to their own countries. This helped surfing grow worldwide. The Hawaiian surfers continued to lead the way. They developed new techniques and styles. They pushed the limits of what was possible on a wave.

The beaches of Oahu, especially the North Shore, became famous. The waves here are big and powerful. Surfers from around the world come to test their skills. The winter months are the best time for big waves. The surf can reach heights of over 30 feet. Riding these waves takes courage and skill.

Hawaiian surfers are known for their grace and style. They make riding big waves look easy. They use the power of the ocean to their advantage. Their movements are smooth and fluid. Watching them surf is like watching a dance.

The influence of Hawaiian surfers extends beyond the waves. They have helped to shape the culture of surfing. They have inspired generations of surfers. They have also given back to their communities. Many are involved in efforts to protect the ocean and the beaches. They understand the importance of preserving the natural environment.

Hawaiian surfers have also made their mark in competitions. They have won many titles and awards. Their achievements have brought pride to the islands. They have shown that Hawaii is still the heart of the surfing world.

The legacy of Hawaiian surfers is strong. They have set the standard for what it means to be a great surfer. Their skills, style, and connection to the ocean are unmatched. They carry on a tradition that is hundreds of years old. They honor their ancestors with every wave they ride.

Surfing in Hawaii is more than a pastime. It is a deep connection to the land and the sea. It is a way to express oneself and find peace. The Hawaiian surfers are the true ambassadors of this way of life. They remind us of the beauty and power of the ocean. They show us what it means to live in harmony with nature.

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