Today, we’re heading to Portugal’s Silver Coast to unpack the story of Nazaré—the tiny fishing town that became the global capital of monster waves.

We’ll look back at how an underwater canyon deeper than the Grand Canyon turned Nazaré into a freak of nature, capable of producing 100-foot walls of water. From Garrett McNamara’s historic first ride to record-breaking waves by Rodrigo Koxa, Sebastian Steudtner, and Maya Gabeira, this episode traces how one spot redefined what surfers thought was possible.

We’ll also explore why Nazaré divides opinions: Is it the ultimate big-wave proving ground or just a novelty wave that looks better on Instagram than it feels under your feet? Either way, you can’t ignore it.

Thinking about your first surf trip to Central America? In this episode, we’re taking you to San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua—where warm water, mellow waves, and a laid-back surf scene make it one of the best places for beginners to get comfortable in the lineup.

We’ll walk you through the area’s most popular beaches, from the soft, rolling waves of Playa Remanso to the long rides at Playa Hermosa and the punchier sets at Maderas. You’ll get tips on the best time to visit, what to pack (spoiler: you won’t need a wetsuit), and how to avoid common hazards like rips and jellyfish.

Plus, we’ll share where to find great surf schools, fresh tacos, and the perfect sunset spot to wrap up your day. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a new surfer, or just daydreaming about warm water and offshore winds, San Juan Del Sur has something for you.

Today, we’re sharing the inspiring story of Posh—a longboarder, surf camp owner, full-time mom, and all-around small wave girlie from the Philippines.

In 2016, after a cancer diagnosis, Posh decided to change everything about her life. A single surf trip with friends turned into an obsession that led her to quit her job, move to the coast, and eventually find her perfect wave-rich home on the island of Catanduanes.

In this episode, you’ll hear how surfing became her way to heal, build community, and create meaningful work through her surf camp, Happy Isla. From the early days of uncrowded lineups to running a business that supports local livelihoods, Posh proves that sometimes the smallest waves bring the biggest joy.

This week's roundupon:
- Beginner surfers are (allegedly) banned from Cloud 9 in Siargao—so why are surf mags cheering?
- The Hawaiian princes return to Santa Cruz (well, their boards do) for the biggest surf history exhibit ever
- And in much better news, dogs are officially better surfers than all of us—especially at the UK Dog Surfing Championships

Before surfing became a global obsession, there was Duke Kahanamoku—a Hawaiian waterman whose life changed the sport forever. In this episode, we explore how Duke’s Olympic swimming triumphs and joyful spirit introduced surfing to Australia, California, and the rest of the world.

From riding giant waves on handmade boards to standing on his head as beachgoers watched in awe, Duke embodied a style and generosity that defined an era. But his story also includes struggle: discrimination in Hollywood, being denied service in restaurants, and decades of being underestimated.

Join us as we celebrate Duke’s lasting impact on surfing—and why his simple philosophy still resonates today: “Take your time—wave come.”

Ever wondered what those swirling or bubbling patches on the water mean when you’re paddling out? They’re called boils—and they’re more important than you might think.

In this episode, we’ll break down exactly what boils are, why they form over rocks, reefs, and seabed contours, and how they can completely change the shape of a wave. You’ll learn why boils can be both a red flag and a useful landmark, how to spot them before you take off, and why even seasoned surfers keep an eye out when the swell is pumping.

Short, practical, and perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to read the ocean a little better.

This week, it’s my birthday—and the perfect excuse to look back on nearly two decades of surfing as a self-proclaimed perpetual beginner. From the first wobbly pop-up in Wales to countless sessions in California, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned (and unlearned) over 17 years chasing waves.

We’ll talk about:

• Why taking a surf sabbatical might cost you more than you think

• The myth of the “real surfer” and why foamies deserve your respect

• Buying gear as a procrastination crutch

• The creeping fear that comes from surfing less and less

• The joy, heartbreak, and hard-earned wisdom of staying in the lineup—no matter how slowly you progress

If you’ve ever felt stuck between beginner and intermediate—or wondered whether you’ll ever really feel like a surfer—this one’s for you.

Ever wondered what it’s like to paddle out after dark? This episode dives into the surreal world of night surfing—where moonlit waves replace crowded lineups and the ocean feels like a whole different planet.

We’ll trace the surprising history of surfing by lamplight, from acetylene lanterns strapped to wooden boards in Waikiki to modern sessions under floodlights in Brazil. You’ll hear tips on how to try it safely, what gear helps you stay visible, and why everything feels twice as fast when the sun goes down.

Whether you’re curious about the romance of full-moon surf or just want to know why some people risk the sharks and the darkness, this is your beginner’s guide to riding waves after hours.