Top Surf Podcasts You Should Follow

Headphones resting on a surfboard at sunrise by the ocean.
A surfer listens to inspiring stories and surf culture conversations through top surf podcasts that keep the ocean stoke alive anywhere.

For surfers, the stoke doesn’t stop when you leave the water — it continues in conversations, stories, and insights that remind you why you fell in love with the ocean in the first place. Surf podcasts have become one of the best ways to stay connected to surf culture, whether you’re driving to your next session, shaping a board, or chilling after a long day at the beach.

From pro-level interviews to ocean conservation stories and surf history deep dives, here are the top surf podcasts that keep the vibe alive between swells.

1. The Lineup with Dave Prodan

Hosted by Dave Prodan, the World Surf League’s long-time communications strategist, The Lineup is as close as you’ll get to the inside world of professional surfing.

Each episode features candid conversations with surf legends, rising pros, and key industry figures — exploring everything from competition strategy to personal growth and culture.

Why listen:

  • Insightful, professional interviews with top WSL athletes.
  • Behind-the-scenes stories from the tour.
  • Balanced tone — part insider knowledge, part soulful reflection.

Perfect for those who love high-level surfing and want to understand what drives the world’s best.

2. Ain’t That Swell

Hosted by Australian surf personalities Vaughan Blakey and Jed Smith, Ain’t That Swell blends surf journalism with unapologetic humor and raw energy. It’s equal parts surf history lesson, pub banter, and cultural commentary.

You’ll hear interviews with legends like Occy, Mick Fanning, and Steph Gilmore, all wrapped in true Aussie spirit.

Why listen:

  • Hilarious, authentic, and often unpredictable.
  • A mix of surf culture, history, and passionate debate.
  • Keeps the stoke real and unfiltered.

If you like your surf talk raw, funny, and deeply rooted in surf soul, this is your go-to.

3. Waterpeople Podcast

Hosted by Lauren Hill and Dave Rastovich, Waterpeople captures the poetic, thoughtful side of surfing. This beautifully produced podcast focuses on personal stories, environmental stewardship, and the philosophy of ocean life.

Each episode feels like a slow paddle into the deeper meaning of what it means to live in rhythm with the sea.

Why listen:

  • Gentle, soulful tone perfect for post-surf reflection.
  • Deep discussions on sustainability, mindfulness, and connection.
  • Features world-renowned surfers and ocean activists.

Ideal for those who view surfing as more than sport — a lifestyle and spiritual path.

4. The Surf Splendor Network

The Surf Splendor Network, founded by David Scales, is a collective of surf podcasts under one roof — including The Grit!, Spit!, and Caffeine & Green. It’s a surf media powerhouse that covers everything from surf industry gossip to shaping innovations and surf ethics.

Why listen:

  • Multiple shows with diverse perspectives.
  • Honest, intelligent conversations about surfing’s evolving culture.
  • Deep archives for hours of thoughtful surf content.

Whether you’re into design, surf politics, or storytelling, there’s something here for everyone.

5. The Kyle Thiermann Show

Documentary filmmaker and surfer Kyle Thiermann brings an intellectual and adventurous approach to surf conversation. His podcast features surfers, scientists, activists, and entrepreneurs pushing limits in and out of the water.

It’s less about competition and more about curiosity, creativity, and how surfing intersects with global issues.

Why listen:

  • Inspiring interviews that go beyond surf technique.
  • Covers environmental and social topics tied to ocean life.
  • Motivational and thought-provoking storytelling.

For surfers who love the “why” behind the waves, this podcast delivers depth and inspiration.

6. The Surf Mastery Podcast

If you’re serious about improving your surfing, Surf Mastery is like having a coach in your headphones. Hosted by Michael Frampton, it focuses on technique, fitness, mindset, and performance psychology.

Guests include pro surfers, surf coaches, and physiologists who break down what it takes to progress physically and mentally in the sport.

Why listen:

  • Evidence-based advice to level up your surfing.
  • Great insights into mental training and flow state.
  • Clear, practical tips for surfers of all levels.

Perfect for anyone who treats surfing as both passion and discipline.

7. Looking Sideways

Hosted by Matt Barr, Looking Sideways goes beyond surfing to explore the entire world of board sports — from snowboarding to skateboarding. But its surf episodes are some of the most engaging, featuring athletes and creatives who live for adventure.

Why listen:

  • Cross-disciplinary inspiration from the action sports world.
  • Deep, human-centered storytelling.
  • Excellent production quality and thoughtful interviews.

A great choice for those who see surfing as part of a larger creative lifestyle.

8. The Oceanriders Podcast

Produced and hosted by Imi Barneaud, this podcast dives into the personal journeys of surfers around the globe — entrepreneurs, photographers, activists, and free spirits united by the sea.

Each episode is a reminder that surfing connects people beyond borders, careers, and cultures.

Why listen:

  • Uplifting global stories about surfers living creative lives.
  • Focus on community and lifestyle rather than competition.
  • Perfect for dreamers and travelers at heart.

It’s like a surf road trip for your mind — full of new perspectives and salty wisdom.

9. Surf Simply Podcast

Created by the crew at the Surf Simply Coaching Resort in Costa Rica, this podcast breaks down surfing with precision and intelligence. Hosts discuss technique, surf science, and surf history with an educational yet easygoing tone.

Why listen:

  • Deep dives into surf mechanics and wave dynamics.
  • Clear, engaging discussions for surfers looking to learn.
  • Scientific and structured, but still stoke-filled.

Perfect for those who love to geek out on the technical side of surfing.

10. The Grit!

Part of the Surf Splendor Network, The Grit! pairs David Lee Scales with Chas Smith for surf industry debate, humor, and irreverence. It’s surf culture commentary at its most entertaining — equal parts smart, funny, and chaotic.

Why listen:

  • Hilarious, opinionated, and unfiltered.
  • Covers everything from surf news to philosophical rants.
  • Great chemistry between the hosts keeps it unpredictable.

If you like surf talk that’s as lively as a crowded lineup, The Grit! delivers nonstop stoke and debate.

Final Thoughts

Surf podcasts bring the ocean to your ears — wherever you are. They connect the global surf community, amplify inspiring voices, and keep your passion alive between sets.

Whether you crave technical insight, soulful storytelling, or raw humor, there’s a surf podcast out there that fits your vibe. Plug in, paddle out (mentally), and let these conversations keep your stoke alive until your next real session.