Did you know the best Surfer in the world is South African? Get to know Jordy Smith and SA surfing culture

June 11, 2025

Photo courtesy of Hassaan Hussain, Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ## Table of Contents - [South Africa’s Current No.1 Surfer: Jordy Smith](#jordy) - [Evolution of Surf Culture in South Africa](#culture) - [Surfing and Township Youth: Breaking Barriers](#township) - [Major Surf Regions](#regions) - [Cape Town and Western Cape](#cape-town) - [Durban and KwaZulu-Natal](#durban) - [Jeffreys Bay and Eastern Cape](#jbay) - [Notable Surf Competitions in South Africa](#competitions) - [Surfing Participation and Demographics](#participation) - [What Visitors Should Know: Beach Safety & Etiquette](#visitors) - [Cultural Tips for Surfing Outsiders](#culture-tips) - [Distinctive Traits and Regional Idiosyncrasies](#traits) - [Recent Highlights in South African Surfing](#recent) - [Conclusion](#conclusion) Surfing in South Africa has exploded into a vibrant, diverse culture by 2025. Beyond its world-class waves, the sport reflects the country’s “Rainbow Nation” spirit – a mix of traditions, languages and communities drawn to the ocean. Today, South Africa proudly boasts a world-leading professional surfer, a growing network of surf schools and charities, and a coastline packed with iconic breaks from Cape Town to Durban to Jeffreys Bay. We dive into this rich surf scene below, from the reigning champion’s story to beach flags on the coast. ##

South Africa’s Current No. 1 Surfer: Jordy Smith

South African surfing’s brightest star in 2024/2025 is Jordy Smith, a powerful regular-foot surfer from Durban. After years on the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, Smith surged into the world #1 ranking in 2025 (source: worldsurfleague.com, redbull.com). In May 2025, his victory at the Margaret River Pro in Australia vaulted him atop the global leaderboard (source: redbull.com). This triumph capped a career comeback: Smith had previously ranked as high as #2 (in 2010 and 2016) and won eight CT events during his career ([Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordy_Smith)). Notably, he took the Billabong J-Bay Classic in 2010 and 2011, and remains the only South African to break into the top 5 worldwide. Smith’s story is one of resilience. A WSL bio notes that he has “been competing on the Championship Tour for many years and is a regular winner.” He also represented South Africa at the Olympic Games in 2020 and 2024. In media interviews, he credits the culture and community of South African surfing for keeping him grounded. For foreign fans, Jordy’s rise emphasizes that SA produces world-class talent: as of 2025 he stands at #1 globally. In his wake, a new generation of South African surfers (like Mikey February and teenage phenoms Joshe Faulkner or Luke Slijpen) are making waves on international tours.

Evolution of Surf Culture in South Africa

Surf culture in South Africa dates back over a century. The first recorded South African surfer was Heather Price in Cape Town, who rode a wave as early as 1919. Through the mid-20th century, surfing grew slowly, mostly among white coastal communities. During apartheid, beaches and clubs were racially segregated by law, so surfing was largely a white-dominated pastime. However, many South African surfers quietly opposed apartheid – even international champions like Shaun Tomson and Ian Cairns were outspoken against it. The 1980s saw South African surfers join global boycotts of apartheid sport, and by the 1990s a new integrated surf community began emerging. After apartheid ended in 1994, surfing underwent a cultural shift. National sport bodies and charities made efforts to open the sport. For example, Surfing South Africa (SSA) was founded to govern the sport inclusively. Surf therapy programs like Waves for Change launched to bring the ocean to township youth, showing “how wave-riding saved [young surfers] from taking the wrong path” ([Huck Magazine](https://www.huckmag.com)). Today’s surf culture weaves together these histories: professional athletes like Jordy Smith, legendary icons like Shaun Tomson (1970s world champ), and grassroots figures (see below) share the same waves. South African surf culture is characterized by passion and laid-back camaraderie, even as it grapples with history. As one young Zulu surfer noted, “surfing saved me from going down that road” of gang life in the townships. Over the decades, surfing rituals have developed: dawn patrol sessions on the Golden Mile in Durban, beach braais (barbecues) in Cape Town after noon, and pilgrimage runs to Mullins Bay at J-Bay on big-swell days. Local surf music, skate-inspired surf fashion, and a cheeky slang (“howzit, china!” “ek sê!”) give it a distinct vibe. In short, while modern South African surf culture is firmly global in its love of waves, it remains uniquely South African in its diversity and history. ##

Surfing and Township Youth: Breaking Barriers

In recent years, a remarkable trend has emerged: talented surfers rising from historically disadvantaged townships to national and international prominence. As apartheid faded, programs sprung up to teach surfing to black youth in places like Cape Town’s Khayelitsha or Pellsrus (an informal settlement in the Eastern Cape). These initiatives not only grow the sport but also offer hope and mentorship. South African surfers themselves have led this charge. For example, Chow Sampson – a Zulu surfer from eThekwini (Durban) – co-founded the Nyanga Surf Club in Cape Town’s townships to introduce African kids to surfing. Meanwhile, big-wave rider Paul “Chow” Sampson now mentors children from Durban townships, reflecting surfing’s inclusive new direction. One vivid story is that of Joshe Faulkner, a Pellsrus (Jeffreys Bay) native profiled in *Huck* magazine. Born and raised in a rural township where gang culture was prevalent, Faulkner found surfing through his cousins and local surf clubs. He says explicitly, “Surfing saved me from going down that road” of gangs. Surfing gave him discipline and purpose. Now 21, Joshe is one of SA’s top junior competitors, and he believes that more black African kids will join the sport. He notes candidly that even in 2020 South African society often expects black surfers to be “just smoking weed” – but he says pioneers like Mikey February (the first black South African on the WSL Championship Tour) have opened doors. As Faulkner remarks, “Being a black surfer means a lot. It’s definitely a white-dominated sport, but… Mikey February opened the doors for black surfers.” These stories illustrate surf culture’s new inclusivity. Organizations like Waves for Change run surf therapy programs in townships to build confidence and mental health through surfing. Clubs and charities around Cape Town, Durban and Jeffreys Bay now host youth clinics and community days (sometimes with jersey contests and drums, blending surf with local culture). The “gates in, no gates out” ethos of townships remains true, but surfing is showing that there are ways out and up for talented youth. This infusion of new faces is reshaping South African surf culture, making it more representative of the nation’s population. ##

Major Surf Regions

South Africa’s long coastline is blessed with a wide variety of surf breaks. Below is a summary of the three most famous surf regions – Cape Town (Western Cape), Durban (KwaZulu-Natal) and Jeffreys Bay (Eastern Cape) – including their wave types and local surf culture: | Region | Surf Features | Climate & Water | Notable Spots/Notes | |--------|---------------|----------------|---------------------| | **Cape Town & Western Cape** | Large range of breaks: from gentle sandbar and reef beachbreaks to heavy reef/point breaks. Famous big-wave spot Dungeons under The Sentinel, plus beginner-friendly Muizenberg, Middleton, Long Beach (Kommetjie). | Cold Atlantic (10–18°C). Summer brings strong northwest winds (ideal offshore at some spots), winter yields big south swells. | Iconic spots include Muizenberg (beginners), Kalk Bay (reef), Big Bay/Cape Town (powershorts), and Dungeons (big-wave, Cape Peninsula) ([southafrica.net](https://www.southafrica.net)). Vibrant surf community in Cape Town surrounds these spots, with many surf schools. | | **Durban & KwaZulu-Natal** | Warm-water beach and reef breaks on the subtropical Indian Ocean. Most famously the “Golden Mile” in central Durban, dotted by piers and beaches (Bay of Plenty, New Pier, North Beach, Dairy). Further north and south, reef breaks (Cave Rock, Scottburgh, Ballito). | Warm (summer water up to ~26°C). Summer trade winds (northeasterlies) can make mornings glassy; winter (June–Aug) brings consistent groundswells. | Durban’s Golden Mile offers year-round surf (lifeguarded beaches with marked surf zones). The South Africa Open of Surfing (Pollock Beach, Gqeberha) and local QS events often rotate through KZN. According to tourism guides, “Durban, or Surf City, has the Golden Mile of perfect beaches… consistent beach breaks capable of holding winter and cyclone swells” ([southafrica.net](https://www.southafrica.net)). Nearby North and South coasts (Ballito, Umhlanga, etc.) also boast strong local surf cultures. | | **Jeffreys Bay & Eastern Cape** | Home of Supertubes – a legendary long right-hand point break known worldwide. Multiple sections (Supertubes, Boneyards, Kitchen Windows, etc.) can offer long rides and huge tubes. Also reef breaks (Humewood, Seals). | Temperate (water ~14–22°C). Winter storms (June–Sept) and occasional summer swells (from the east). Much of the year remains surfable in moderate conditions. | Jeffreys Bay is the site of the annual J-Bay Open (Corona J-Bay Classic) on Supertubes. A *Huck* profile notes J-Bay as “a town blessed with one of the most dynamic, consistent and totemic right-hand point breaks on the planet” ([huckmag.com](https://www.huckmag.com)). The town’s economy and culture revolve around surf tourism. Nearby Eastern Cape spots (Port Elizabeth/Pollock Beach, Wilderness) also attract surfers. | A surfer heads out at Sandy Bay near Cape Town, one of the many breaks in the Western Cape. South Africa’s diverse coastline yields surf spots for every level, from gentle bay beaches to heavy point and reef breaks. Each region has its own local flavor. In Cape Town, many surfers start at Muizenberg and progress to bigger waves like Dungeons (Big Bay) once they’re confident. The Cape’s surf season is often winter (Southern Hemisphere June–August) for big swells, though summer mornings can be ideal if onshore winds are light. Durban’s culture is more tropical and late-afternoon oriented; locals might surf, then braai on the beach while watching the sunset. The Durban surf community is close-knit – surfers often greet each other on the beach with a hearty handshake or “Howzit, bru!” (Zulu/Colloquial for “How’s it going?”). Jeffreys Bay, by contrast, is a small town where Supertubes dominates conversation: when the swell is running, surfers from all over gather to ride the famed rights. Even within J-Bay there’s a regional dialect (locals use Xhosa phrases and tooty pipes as surf horns). ##

Notable Surf Competitions in South Africa

South Africa hosts several prestigious surf events each year, reflecting its global surfing stature. The **Corona J-Bay Classic** (often just called the J-Bay Open) is the marquee event on the world Championship Tour. Held at Supertubes (Jeffreys Bay) each June or July, it draws the world’s top 34 men and 18 women. Past champions include Jordy Smith (2010, 2011), Mick Fanning, and Filipe Toledo. The 2024 event (June 17–23) was won by Portugal’s Frederico Morais, and Sarah Baum in the women’s division ([worldsurfleague.com](https://www.worldsurfleague.com)). It consistently produces epic heats and iconic surf-hero moments. Another cornerstone is the **Ballito Pro (O’Neill Ballito Pro)** on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast. Dating to 1969, it’s the oldest pro contest in the world ([theballitopro.com](https://www.theballitopro.com)). In 2025 it celebrates its 56th edition. Held at Willard Beach, it’s a WSL Qualifying Series event (and a WSL African Tour fixture) featuring many South African hopefuls and international challengers. In recent years, Durban itself has rejoined the competitive scene: the *eThekwini Surf Pro* (inaugural in 2024) ran on Durban’s south beach as a QS1000 event to launch the Africa Qualifying season ([worldsurfleague.com](https://www.worldsurfleague.com)). Other notable contests include the **South Africa Open of Surfing** (a QS1000 in Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha held around March each year) and the **Cape Town Surf Pro** (Long Beach, Kommetjie – a QS event that concludes the WSL Africa series). Juniors and longboarders also compete in national champs; and *Waves of Freedom*-style stand-up paddle (SUP) events have gained traction in Cape Town and Knysna. Surfers at the Mr Price Pro competition in Durban (2014). South Africa’s legacy contest was named for its long-running Durban 500 heritage. Major WSL and QS events today include stops at Durban, Ballito, and Jeffreys Bay, drawing international fields. These competitions are social highlights too. Local surf fans eagerly line beaches to watch heats, and festivals (with music, art, and market stalls) often accompany them. For instance, Durban’s Ballito Pro festival is a major summer event, and J-Bay’s PetroSA Surf Festival draws thousands of spectators. Such events showcase regional surf styles (beach breaks in KZN, point breaks in EC) and have become bucket-list experiences for visiting surfers and fans. ##

Surfing Participation in South Africa

Surfing is one of South Africa’s most popular marine sports. Exact numbers are scarce, but insight can be gleaned from local sports surveys and surf organization data. The governing body Surfing South Africa (SSA) estimates that **thousands of South Africans** are active surfers and club members nationwide. A 2018 ASA (Authority of SA) sport participation survey reported surfing among the top water sports, especially in coastal provinces. According to global studies, Africa has about 4.5 million surfers overall ([surfertoday.com](https://www.surfertoday.com)), and South Africa contributes a significant share (by some counts, tens of thousands of regular surfers). Surfing demographics are gradually diversifying. Historically male-dominated, recent initiatives have brought more women and Black Africans into the lineup. (Worldwide about 19% of surfers are women; South Africa’s numbers have been lower but female entries in contests have risen.) SSA reports dozens of surf clubs and hundreds of registered competitors in men’s, women’s and youth divisions. Surf schools (often in tourist areas like Cape Town, Durban, J-Bay) train novices, and surf shops sponsor local teams. Beach safety programs and lifeguard certification also boost beach culture participation. One striking statistic: community surf therapy programs have reached **thousands** of vulnerable youths. For example, *Waves for Change* has worked in over 10 townships around Cape Town, using surf lessons to improve mental health and life outcomes. (A *Mail & Guardian* report noted their impact on school attendance and behavior.) Thus, even if official “registered surfer” numbers are not widely published, the ripple effect is clear – surf participation in South Africa is on the rise, fueled by tourism and community development alike. ##

What Visitors Should Know: Beach Safety & Etiquette

Tourists coming to South Africa to surf or watch the waves should be aware of **safety guidelines and local beach protocols**. Fortunately, South Africa’s tourism and municipal agencies provide clear information. For one, most popular beaches have **lifeguards and safety flags** marking swimming/surfing zones. As one official guide notes, “Beach safety precautions are clearly indicated… lifeguards are on duty most of the year” ([southafrica.net](https://www.southafrica.net)). Swimmers and surfers must stay within flagged areas – going outside can lead to strong rip currents. Always read posted signs. Importantly, apart from KwaZulu-Natal, South African shores *do not* have shark nets or cages. Only KZN beaches (Durban, North Coast) use nets as part of the Sharks Board program. Elsewhere (Cape Town, Eastern Cape, Western Cape), there are no nets – so use caution with sharks in mind. (Notably, Cape Town hosts a “Shark Spotters” program that posts flags when sharks are overhead.) In any case, avoiding dawn/dusk surfing and not surfing alone are sensible precautions. If you spot marine dangers (sharks, jellyfish, bluebottles) heed the warnings and get out of the water promptly. Local surf reports and webcams (e.g. those at surf camps) are very useful for real-time info on swell, wind and hazards. Aside from nature, crime can be a concern in any city. Surfing areas in major cities like Cape Town and Durban are generally safe beach environments during the day. Still, visitors should secure gear (cameras, phones) while on the beach and avoid deserted spots after dark. South African beaches are open to all races by law, and generally friendly; but it’s wise to observe any local advice. If hiring equipment or taking lessons, use reputable businesses – many surf shops in Cape Town, Durban or J-Bay offer high-quality rentals and guided instruction for foreigners. ##

Cultural Tips for Surfing Outsiders

As an outsider wanting to *appreciate South African surf culture*, there are a few key points to keep in mind. Firstly, South Africans are known for **friendly informality**. On the beach, a casual greeting like “Howzit!” with a smile is customary. Small talk about **sports, weather or local surf conditions** is a great ice-breaker. (The *Black Pen* guide on SA etiquette notes that topics like sports and family are always safe ([blackpen-immigration.com](https://www.blackpen-immigration.com)). In general, people love to talk about their community and heritage, so asking about the local surf spot’s name or how long the reef has been surfed can spark friendly conversation. However, treat sensitive subjects with respect. South Africa is still healing from apartheid, and race or politics can be touchy. As one etiquette guide advises, **“avoid controversial topics such as politics and race unless you know the person well”**. On the beach, keep to universal surf etiquette: right-of-way (“take off” rules), don’t snake others, and rinse off all wax or sunscreen out of respect when leaving the water. When joining a lineup with locals, be polite and patient. Most South African surfers will happily help a polite foreigner understand local rules. If unsure, watch first and follow the locals’ rhythm. Learn a few local words: In Cape Town and J-Bay you might hear Afrikaans – for example, “lekker” (pronounced *lek-ker*) means “great” or “nice”. In Durban and much of KZN, Zulu greetings like “Sawubona” (hello) or “Ngiyabonga” (thank you) are appreciated by locals. However, English is widely spoken everywhere, and surf lingo is universal (“stoked”, “gnarly”, etc. are all understood). The simple act of offering to buy a round of beers or sodas for a crowd after a good session can also make a great impression – surf camaraderie is strong in SA, just as in any surf nation. Finally, do engage with surf traditions. For example, afternoon or evening *braais* (barbecues) on the beach after a surf session are common, especially in Durban and the Western Cape. Joining in (and bringing some meat or veggies to throw on the grill) can be a fun cultural experience. Or attend a local surf contest: even just watching heats at the J-Bay Open on a big-screen tent is an exciting way to soak up surf culture. As with anywhere, showing genuine interest and respect will help you appreciate the South African surf lifestyle. ##

Distinctive Traits and Regional Idiosyncrasies

Several quirky traits set South African surf culture apart: - **Language blend:** Locals often mix English with Afrikaans, Zulu or Xhosa phrases. You might hear surfers call each other “china” (a term of friendship) or say “ya well done” (meaning “yeah, awesome”). - **Braai culture:** Barbecuing is practically ritual. A post-surf beach braai – steak and boerewors (sausage) with a view of the sunset – is as much a part of the vibe as catching waves. - **Tolerance for extremes:** South Africans joke about their sunburns or cold-water woes, but most are unflappable. For instance, Cape Town surfers don thick 4/3mm wetsuits year-round, yet paddle out with smiles. Big swells like those at Dungeons (Cape Town) and Cave Rock (Durban) draw fearless surfers eager to push limits ([southafrica.net](https://www.southafrica.net), [surfertoday.com](https://www.surfertoday.com)). - **Daylight habits:** Sunset is relatively early in winter, so weeknight sessions are common. Many beaches have lights or early closing times, so the surf culture respects daylight. - **Regional cuisine influence:** In Durban, many surfers are of Indian or Zulu descent, so you’ll see spicy bunny chow (curry-in-bread) or vetkoek (fried dough) among the beach snacks. In the Western Cape, after-surf snacks might include ostrich biltong (jerky) or koeksisters (sweet fried twists). Sharing food is another way communities bond on the beach. Each region’s surf community has its own identity. Cape Town surfers often pride themselves on handling freezing water and mention big waves like Dungeons or the famous “supers” in jokes. Durban surfers are known for their hospitality – you’ll rarely walk into a Durban lineup without being greeted and offered a sip of bubbly (a local moonshine) or a friendly nickname. Jeffreys Bay locals are more reserved; the long pointbreak gives their culture a surf pilgrimage feel, so during contests they can get very animated yet still polite. ##

Recent Highlights in South African Surfing

South Africa’s surf scene has been active with newsworthy events: - **Jordy Smith’s World No.1 (2025):** As noted above, Jordy Smith reaching #1 was a huge moment for SA surfing. News outlets in 2025 celebrated it: “SA’s big bru Jordy Smith climbs to World #1 after tense quarterfinal win in Margaret River…” ([redbull.com](https://www.redbull.com)). This marked the first time a South African topped the year’s rankings in over a decade. - **JP Veaudry’s Gold (2024):** Paralympian JP Veaudry won South Africa’s first-ever gold at the ISA World Para Surfing Championships in 2024 ([surfingsouthafrica.co.za](https://www.surfingsouthafrica.co.za)). Surfing South Africa and media outlets praised his “wave of resilience” as an inspiration to adaptive athletes. - **Mikey February’s World Tour qualification:** In 2022, Mikey “Mikey” February became the first Black South African to qualify for the WSL Championship Tour ([huckmag.com](https://www.huckmag.com)). His breakthrough opened doors (as Joshe Faulkner notes), and he continues to compete against the elite. - **Local Contest Records:** The Ballito Pro in 2024 drew record crowds on Durban’s beaches, and the SA Masters (for surfers over 35) set a new attendance at Mossel Bay in Eastern Cape ([surfingsouthafrica.co.za](https://www.surfingsouthafrica.co.za)). South African surf schools have also begun hosting international surf camps, showcasing SA waves to visitors from Europe and Australia. - **Social Movements:** In 2020, during COVID lockdown, South African surfers made headlines by protesting lockdown rules. In June 2020, surfers paddled out at Muizenberg as the country lifted restrictions – a moment covered widely (“Muizenberg beach surfers defy lockdown” – *TimesLIVE*). More recently, activism on environmental issues (beach clean-ups, fish kill awareness) has become part of surf life. These events illustrate that South African surfing is dynamic and evolving. Internationally, SA surfers are increasingly prominent, and at home the surf community is vocal and engaged. With the climate crisis, there’s also talk of how rising sea levels will impact beaches – surf groups are partnering on coastal conservation. In sum, South Africa’s surfing scene remains one to watch, with new champions and challenges surfacing year by year. ##

Conclusion

In 2025, surfing in South Africa is a **thriving mosaic** of epic waves and people. From Jordy Smith’s historic world #1 ranking ([redbull.com](https://www.redbull.com)) to townships where kids now dream of surfing supertyphoon barrels, the ocean binds this nation’s surf community. Cape Town’s cold-water point breaks, Durban’s sunny beach swells, and J-Bay’s endless rights each contribute unique chapters to the story. For visitors, the advice is clear: respect the water and the local vibes (see the flags and listen to lifeguards – [southafrica.net](https://www.southafrica.net)), and you’ll find a warm welcome in return. South African surf culture still carries the legacy of its past – proudly recalling pioneers from Heather Price in 1919 to Zulu legend Zane Maloney – while pushing forward with a new, diverse generation. It’s a place where a surfer from a “small township” can beat the odds ([huckmag.com](https://www.huckmag.com)), and where a visitor can broaden their horizons over a beachside braai. Whether one comes for the perfect wave, the vibrant surf community, or the sheer beauty of the coastline, South Africa offers an unforgettable surfing experience – one shaped by its history, people, and the enduring draw of the ocean’s curl. **Sources:** - [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordy_Smith) - [redbull.com](https://www.redbull.com) - [huckmag.com](https://www.huckmag.com) - [southafrica.net](https://www.southafrica.net) - [blackpen-immigration.com](https://www.blackpen-immigration.com) - [worldsurfleague.com](https://www.worldsurfleague.com) - [theballitopro.com](https://www.theballitopro.com) - [surfingsouthafrica.co.za](https://www.surfingsouthafrica.co.za) - [surfertoday.com](https://www.surfertoday.com)

Did you know the best Surfer in the world is South African? Get to know Jordy Smith and SA surfing culture

South Africa’s Current No. 1 Surfer: Jordy Smith

Evolution of Surf Culture in South Africa

Surfing and Township Youth: Breaking Barriers

Major Surf Regions

Notable Surf Competitions in South Africa

Surfing Participation in South Africa

What Visitors Should Know: Beach Safety & Etiquette

Cultural Tips for Surfing Outsiders

Distinctive Traits and Regional Idiosyncrasies

Recent Highlights in South African Surfing

Conclusion

More in Surf & Kite

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Did you know the best Surfer in the world is South African? Get to know Jordy Smith and SA surfing culture

South Africa’s Current No. 1 Surfer: Jordy Smith

Evolution of Surf Culture in South Africa

Surfing and Township Youth: Breaking Barriers

Major Surf Regions

Notable Surf Competitions in South Africa

Surfing Participation in South Africa

What Visitors Should Know: Beach Safety & Etiquette

Cultural Tips for Surfing Outsiders

Distinctive Traits and Regional Idiosyncrasies

Recent Highlights in South African Surfing

Conclusion

More in Surf & Kite

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