This article will help you choose an ideal surf gift. Most of what we include in the guide has been hand-tested by our expert team of reviewers, so rest assured that these are the best options that money can buy.
Scroll down to explore our favorite gift ideas, such as items from Outerknown and Patagonia’s extensive catalog. We’ve also featured several products available on Amazon, including books, toys and even surf gift boxes – perfect for the person who has everything. We love the COR Surf Box for older surfers and we highly recommend the URBN Fit balance board for kids who want to improve their balance. See these products below.
Buying gifts can be tricky so we’ve also included a section below that will help you determine what kind of gift is most appropriate for the surfer in your life. Happy shopping and even happier holidays from the team at Surfd.com!
Table of Contents
Our favorite gift options
If you are busy and want to purchase a gift from one of our favourite brands or shops then scroll no further. The following options are what we are choosing for ourselves.
Sustainable apparel from Kelly Slater’s brand, Outerknown
For the ultimate in surf clothing for men and women skip the rest of this article and check out Kelly Slater’s surf brand, Outerknown.
We previously reviewed the Outerknown range and gave it 5 stars for quality, performance and sustainability. From t-shirts to boardshorts to blanket shirts and winter gear, you can’t go wrong.
| Gifts for | Adults: Men and Women |
| Price | Premium |
| Shipping | From USA, ships internationally |
| Gift rating | 5 stars |
Can’t decide? Get them a gift card!
Get proven shark protection from Sharkbanz
For protection from sharks grab a Sharkbanz shark deterrent. They’re simple, hassle-free and don’t require charging.
We’ve tested Sharkbanz and found it to be a simple solution that gives you peace of mind, especially when surfing in murky water or near a rivermouth.
“Best health tech” ~ Forbes
| Gifts for | Adults and Kids |
| Price | $128 (USD) |
| Shipping | International |
| Gift rating | 5 stars |
Awesome holiday gift options from Patagonia
For sustainable surf gear, including awesome eco-friendly wetsuits visit Patagonia. We’ve reviewed the Yulex range of wetsuits and really like their surf hats and t-shirts.
This year, you’ll discover their gift options including mugs, beanies, gloves, books, gift cards and much, much more.
Choose sustainably sourced and ethically manufactured gear for this season’s gifting.
| Gifts for | Adults and Kids |
| Price | Medium |
| Shipping | International |
| Gift rating | 5 stars |
Ombraz Armless Sunglasses
Ombraz Armless Sunglasses are perfect for surfers and watersports lovers. They’re super lightweight yet impressively durable. Instead of traditional arms, these sunglasses feature a built-in cord, making them nearly impossible to break or lose. When worn correctly, they’re actually more comfortable than regular sunglasses. Plus, they come equipped with top-tier Zeiss optics and are backed by a lifetime warranty.
Best of all, there is a wide range of designs to choose from.
Surf Watch
The Nixon Heat surf watch is a high-quality and reliable timepiece designed for surfers who demand precision and durability in their equipment. This watch is built with surfers in mind, and it is packed with features that make it ideal for use in the water.
Whether you’re a professional surfer or just looking for an adventure, the Nixon Heat Watch is sure to become your go-to companion for all your aquatic adventures.
Handcrafted Skateboards from Deviate
For those who crave the freedom and thrill of carving waves on asphalt, the Deviate Skateboards L-Train and Pretender are must-have additions to any surfer’s quiver. The L-Train, a 47″ classic longboard, is inspired by traditional longboard surfboards and is built for cruising. It features a wide longboard-style nose with tapered rails through the tail, providing plenty of space for a cross step or two while rehearsing your logging maneuvers. The Paris reverse kingpin trucks and natural flex of its hardwood (Sapele and Ash) construction make the L-Train a joy to pump, turn, and carve with. This board is ideal for soulful free riding, cruising, carving, and especially for long distances.
On the other hand, the Pretender is an agile, compact setup that’s a slight departure from Deviate’s traditional longboard roots, making it a versatile companion for surfers looking to diversify their ride. At 29″ long, the Pretender is lightweight, responsive, and just as fun on your local streets as it is on your driveway or pump track. The hardwood (Sapele and Ash) construction, along with Paris 165mm V3 trucks, provides a hybrid cruiser style setup that promises responsive handling and plenty of versatility. The Pretender is like riding a hybrid shortboard, or a twin fin, perfect for cruising and carving local streets, parks, and pathways, as well as for mellow hills, pump tracks, and even urban commuting thanks to its compact size.
Both the L-Train and Pretender are great gifts for surfers looking to extend their wave-riding devotion onto the streets. These boards cater to riders of all ages and skill levels, offering a surf-like vibe and experience that’s both challenging and fun. Whether for cruising, performing wide arcing cutbacks, or pumping through the flats, these Deviate Skateboards will deliver a ride that’s as close to surfing as you can get without hitting the beach.
What kinds of gifts do surfers love?
An obvious choice of gift for someone who likes surfing is apparel, fashion or gear related to the surfing lifestyle. If you are a surfer then chances are that you’ll know exactly what they need. If you are not a surfer then you’ll need to activate empathy and imagine the world from their perspective.
If the person is under 20 then they probably don’t have much disposable income. You should choose clothing or a highly functional piece of surfing equipment, like a wetsuit hanger, or a ding repair kit. These are items that they will actually use.
If the surfer is in their twenties or thirties then they’ll probably prefer a book, a gift box containing a range of interesting gadgets, or a fashionable t-shirt, hoodie or even an action camera.
If the surfer is over 40, start thinking about interior decor like clocks, coffee tables or – if you’re on a budget – sunscreen and hats.
A gift card is a safe option for all ages but is also a little boring. If you’re on a budget a few blocks of wax are an inexpensive gift that keeps on giving.
How to choose a gift for a surfer
Buying a gift for a surfer is not always easy. Here are some things you need to consider:
- Conditions: what is the water temperature where they surf? How hot is it in summer and how cold in winter? Buying high-performance boardshorts or a rash guard for a surfer based in a cold climate may not be a good idea. If you’re going to buy wax then make sure it is appropriate for the water temperature.
- Skills: how skilled is your giftee? If they are brand new to surfing then they’ll probably need things like a rash vest, wetsuit, legrope or their own surfboard. Talk to a surf shop assistant to get ideas and don’t spend too much. If they are intermediate or advanced, leave them to get their own technical equipment. It is better to focus on apparel, accessories and gadgets. Quality towels, surf hats, sunscreen and changing mats are all excellent options.
- Frequency: how often do they surf? If they surf once a year then perhaps buy them a surf book or surf art for their home. If they surf once a month then you might consider gadgets and accessories. If they surf every week then chances are they need to upgrade their gear, so boardshorts, rash vests and other items are options they may appreciate.
Most importantly, if you’re unsure what to buy the surfer then ask them! I would be disappointed if I received a cheap wetsuit for Christmas because I’d rather save up for a premium model that will offer better performance. Don’t buy an intermediate surfer a surfboard unless they’ve been talking about a specific model for ages. Even then, you may get the volume and sizing wrong. If you’re intent on buying them their dream board then definitely closely examine their current favourite surfboard and try to match the volume (literage) as closely as possible in the new model.
Hint: a covert strategy for discovering what the surfer in your life wants is to go to the surf shop together. Pretend that you really want a new surf brand t-shirt and then follow them as they browse the aisles. They may wonder why you’re suddenly so interested in surfing but you’ll definitely get some intelligence. Note: this works best with young people – don’t try it on your 45-year-old spouse.
Surf gifts for kids
The best surf toys for kids
The following three gift ideas are what we’re choosing for our kids but also secretly for ourselves. Instead of technology or clothing, how about a product that encourages them to get outside and build their skill set? We really love the surfer dude toy and have had hundreds of parents report that it is the best gift ever.
Surfer Dudes Classics Wave Powered Mini-Surfer and Surfboard Toy – Hossegor Hank model. Just chuck it into the surf and watch him go! $19.99
Wooden Wobble Balance Board is a great way to build balance, co-ordination and have fun at home! $71.99
For kids who are ready to progress to the next level, get them a proper rolling balance board. Great for surf parents too! $79.97
Clothing for girls
Short sleeve t-shirt with graphic on the front from Maui and Sons
Kids’ Refugito Daypack 12L from Patagonia
Bitty Brah Creamsicle Rainbow
Clothing for boys
The Patagonia Baggies Shorts is a comfortable and durable option for active young boys, with a quick-drying fabric
Kids solid trucker hat with logo graphic on front from Maui and Sons
Cute youth soft spun cotton t-shirt from Koloa
Paint Markers
SurfPaints markers are an ideal choice for kids who want to create colorful and personalized surfboard art. These markers are specially designed to work on the slick surface of a surfboard, allowing kids to create vibrant designs that will last through many rides. The markers feature a durable, waterproof formula that can withstand the wear and tear of surfing. With SurfPaints markers, kids can create unique and eye-catching designs that will make their boards stand out in the water.
Surf books
Whether it is a coffee table classic, surf philosophy or an autobiography – books are a great gift for the surfer in your life. We recommend:
- Barbarian Days: a Surfing Life by William Finnegan (Winner of the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Autobiography and rated 5 stars on Amazon). For the surfer who loves adventure.
- Fifty Places to Surf Before You Die: Surfing Experts Share the Worlds Greatest Destinations by Chris Santella. For the surfer who loves travel.
- The History of Surfing (Hardcover) by Matt Warshaw. For the surfer who loves history.
- Jeff Divine: 70s Surf Photographs. A classic coffee table book that will be treasured by surfers in their fifties.
- Mop Rides the Waves of Life: A Story of Mindfulness and Surfing by Jaimal Yogis. For surfer kids.
Barbarian Days: a Surfing Life by William Finnegan
Hubi’s Surf Atlas – Part 1 (Wiilder World)
Surfer girl Notebook | Retro Sunset Surf
Lilly Loves Surfing: Wave of the Day by Bradley Hook
Surf home decor
Surf Map
In addition to being an incredibly useful tool for surfers, Malin and Mizen surf maps are also an awesome art piece to display on your wall. The intricate details of the maps are sure to catch the eye and spark conversation among any surf enthusiasts who visit your home. Displaying these surf maps on your wall is not only a way to showcase your love for the ocean and surfing, but it’s also a unique and stunning piece of art that will elevate any room in your home.
Surfboard coffee table
Look no further than Salty Home’s “The One” surfboard coffee table. It costs USD $679 but is worth every bit.
Surf tide clock
Do you want to bring a marine side in your decoration? This modern tide clock is the perfect piece of furniture you need. A tide clock also allows you to live by the rhythm of the tides. Don’t miss the best time to go to the beach.
Stay connected to the Pacific Ocean thanks to this modern tide clock, handmade with natural wood.
Just $89 from Salty Furniture.
Skincare
Surfers know the toll that sun, saltwater, and wind can take on their skin after long surf sessions. That’s why proper skincare is a must to keep skin healthy and glowing. Surf + Slope by Nation Botanics is specially designed to look after your skin, no matter how many hours you’ve spent in the sun.
With a Nourishing Moisturizer and Revitalizing Serum, it’s packed with plant-based goodness to restore hydration and protect your skin from the elements. Whether you’re catching barrels or just soaking up rays, Surf + Slope has got you covered. It’s a simple, effective way to keep your skin healthy and glowing all year round.
Surf gift box
If you are looking for a gift box, containing a range of thoughtful products then the COR Surf Gift Pack might be perfect for you. It includes a range of products for waxing and displaying surfboards and changing into your wetsuit.
- The Cor Surf Gift Pack is the ideal gift for any surfer! Comes packaged in a nice gift box any surfer will love!
- The Original COR Surf Towel Poncho: Soft One-Size-fits-All Warm and Soft Dark Blue Microfiber Changing Poncho Towel Robe allows you to stay warm while changing out of your wetsuit while maintaining discretion.
- The Original Cor Surf Single Surfboard Wall Rack made with 100% sustainable wood- The Rack that Started Cor Surf in 2003! Display Your Board in Style!
- The Cor Wetsuit Changing Mat that doubles as a carrying BAG. Watertight so your wetsuit doesn’t leak in your car and a bar of Cool Surf Wax
Action camera
For an all-purpose waterproof action camera, we are huge fans of the Insta360 ONE X4. This camera is:
- Portable and seriously rugged.
- Capable of filming the entire world in 360 degrees at 8K resolution.
- Accompanied by amazing desktop and mobile editing software.
- Converts into a 4K60fps wide-angle action cam with Single-Lens Mode.
Get yours on the Insta360 website or on Amazon.
Surf gifts under $20
If you’re after a great gift for less than $20 we’ve got some ideas for you.
Surfboard wax
Surf wax is an obvious gift idea for surfers. For just $3 from Backcountry.com these are perfect stocking fillers.
Wetsuit cleaner
Wetsuits have a tendency to get crusty and musty. For $15 you can extend the life of a wetsuit and keep things fresh.
Repair kit
This travel repair kit can be stashed in a car or your luggage so that dings can be fixed on the fly. Just $10.
Capture your surf adventures, dreams, and daily reflections with the Retro Surf Journal, priced at $5.95
For surfer girls, Rip Tie Tangle-Free Hair Ties are specially designed to keep your hair smooth, streamlined, and free from tangles. They are priced at $8.95
What are a good gifts for a surf dad?
Surf dads are usually pretty easy to please. Here are three gifts we recommend for a dad who loves to surf.
Surf Pouch
A simple solution to minimise mess in the back of the car. This is the gift for the surfer who has everything! From $39. Buy now.
Gifts for surfers in Australia and New Zealand
Don’t fancy waiting for deliveries from the USA? Then you can’t beat the selection available from Surf Logic.
Car Seat Covers
Keep your car presentable with the awesome seat covers by Surf Logic!
Lock box with LED
This is an awesome gift the surfer who drives to the beach. Super robust and secure, with a light for early and late surfs!
Wax and Fin tool
This tool from Surflogic Hardware is a versatile and practical surf tool that effectively addresses several day-to-day challenges with a simple, all-in-one solution.
That’s it for this gift guide for surfers! If you have any ideas or suggestions please comment below.