Surf's World

The History of a Wonderful Sport

Surfing has deep historical roots, tracing back to ancient Polynesia, with Hawaii being its most notable origin. By the 12th century, surfing had become a significant part of Polynesian culture, particularly in Hawaii, where it was not just a leisure activity but a symbol of status and skill. In early Hawaiian society, surfing had spiritual and social importance. Chiefs and higher-class individuals were allowed to surf on the best waves using longer boards, while commoners had designated areas and shorter boards. The sport saw a decline in the 19th century when European settlers discouraged it, but surfing never entirely disappeared from Hawaiian culture. By the late 1800s, with tourism growing, surfing started to gain attention again. A key figure in reviving and spreading the sport globally was Duke Kahanamoku, an Olympic swimmer born in Hawaii, who popularized surfing worldwide through demonstrations in places like California and Australia. Surfing's popularity surged in the 20th century, particularly in the 1960s, due to media exposure, music like The Beach Boys, and a growing fascination with Hawaiian culture. Today, it’s a global sport enjoyed by enthusiasts of all skill levels, with Hawaii still regarded as one of the top destinations for surfing.