A short history of surfing in the Indian Ocean

Surfing in the Indian Ocean has a rich and varied history, though it remained less documented than in the Pacific.

Indigenous wave-riding traditions existed along the coasts of Africa, India, and the islands of the Indian Ocean, where locals used wooden planks or canoes to ride waves for fun or fishing. However, modern surfing only gained momentum in the region in the mid-20th century.

One of the earliest documented surfing communities in the Indian Ocean emerged in South Africa, particularly in Durban, during the 1940s and 50s. South Africa became a key centre of surf culture, hosting international competitions and producing world-class surfers.

In the 1970s, traveling surfers began exploring new spots in the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Indonesia—especially Bali and the Mentawai Islands—quickly gained fame for their consistent, high-quality waves. These destinations drew surf tourism, creating local surf economies and surf schools.

The Maldives, with its crystal-clear waters and reef breaks, became a luxury surf destination, while Indonesia remains one of the most sought-after surf regions globally. Today, the Indian Ocean is central to global surf culture, blending local traditions with international influence, and offering some of the world’s most iconic waves and surf experiences.