Latest surf news, competitions and community stories from Malta and around the world.

Capítulo Perfeito Goes Global: Iconic Tube Contest Expands to Mozambique and Indonesia for 2026
The renowned Capítulo Perfeito surf contest, celebrated for its "one day, one swell" format and focus on epic tube rides, is set to make a significant leap onto the international stage in 2026. Expanding beyond its traditional home in Portugal, the event will now feature stops in Mozambiqu...

Malibu Honors Surf Icon Randy 'Crawdaddy' Miod with Inaugural Legend Award
Malibu has posthumously honored surf legend Randy "Crawdaddy" Miod with the inaugural Malibu Surf Legend Award. Miod tragically died at age 55 while attempting to save his cat during the devastating Palisades Fire. The award, championed by his close friend Chris Wizner, recognizes Miod's significant...

Sky Surfing Sensation: Daredevil Olga Naumova Soars to New Heights, Sets World Record Above Mount Everest
In a breathtaking display of courage and skill, Belarusian daredevil Olga Naumova has shattered a Guinness World Record for the highest altitude sky surf jump. Leaping from a helicopter at an astonishing 20,945 feet above the majestic Himalayas in Nepal, Naumova executed a flawless sky surf before a...

Malta Braces for High Surf and Low Temperatures
The Maltese Islands are on the brink of a powerful winter swell event as a deep Atlantic system pushes strong winds and cooler air across the central Mediterranean. The Met Office and weather models are showing gusty WNW winds up to 40–55+ km/h (possibly stronger offshore) over the next few days, ma...

Wave of Winter: Bomba Video Competition
Winter doesn't scare us. Cold water, grey skies, heavier swell, that's where the real stories live. This winter, BOMBA Surf Magazine is calling on the community to capture those raw, unfiltered moments and throw them into the spotlight with our Wave of Winter Video Comp 💣 From now until midnight at...

Great Lakes Unleash '30-Year Storm' Waves Thanks to Bomb Cyclone
A powerful "Bomb Cyclone" recently swept across parts of the United States, bringing with it extreme weather and, unexpectedly, massive waves to the Great Lakes. This rare meteorological event, characterized by a rapidly intensifying storm, created conditions for what novelty wave rider Be...

Munich Surfing Wave Disappears, DIY Fix Removed, Sparking Debate
A beloved surfing wave in Munich's English Garden has become the center of a heated debate after city workers removed a temporary, "illegal" beam installed by surfers to recreate the popular Eisbach wave. The wave, a long-standing attraction, vanished in October due to riverbed maintenance...

World Surf League Bolsters Leadership with Key Executive Appointments
The World Surf League (WSL) has announced significant additions to its executive team, appointing Brooke Farris as Chief Marketing Officer and President of North America, and Nicole Metzger as Chief Revenue Officer. These strategic hires signal a commitment to expanding the league's global reach, en...

Surf Air Mobility Accelerates AI Software Development, Eyes 2026 Commercial Launch
Surf Air Mobility Inc. is making significant strides in the development of its AI-enabled software platform, SurfOS, with a targeted commercial rollout planned for 2026. The company has allocated $26 million from a recent $100 million strategic transaction to advance SurfOS, which is powered by Pala...

Surfing Santas Make Waves in Cocoa Beach with Record-Breaking Turnout
Cocoa Beach, Florida, transformed into a festive wonderland on Christmas Eve as the annual Surfing Santas event shattered attendance records. Thousands gathered to witness over 400 participants, clad as Santa Claus and other holiday characters, ride the Atlantic waves. The beloved tradition, now in ...

The Dramatic Downfall of Paul 'Sarge' Sargeant: From Surf Photography Luminary to Pariah
Once a celebrated figure in surf journalism and photography, Paul 'Sarge' Sargeant has experienced a dramatic fall from grace. For two decades, he was a respected insider, capturing iconic moments and enjoying unparalleled access to the world's top surfers. However, a shocking incident in 2005 led t...

Unlocking the Enigma: Tom Curren's Rare Candid Conversation Revealed
In a rare and unguarded moment, surfing legend Tom Curren recently sat down for an interview, offering a glimpse into his famously private world. Hosted by Sterling Spencer on the "Pinch My Salt" podcast, the conversation delved into topics ranging from board design to the current state of...

Bay Area Surfer Critically Injured in Pacifica Accident, Community Rallies Support
A surfing accident in Pacifica on December 10th has left a Suisun City man, identified only as Josh, hospitalized with severe injuries. The incident occurred when Josh was struck in the head by his own surfboard, resulting in a fractured skull. He has since experienced a stroke and is now facing par...

McKinney Set to Ride the Wave with New $200 Million Surf Resort
North Texas is gearing up for a significant new attraction with the groundbreaking of Cannon Beach, a $200 million surf and adventure resort planned for McKinney. This expansive 35-acre development promises a unique blend of aquatic thrills, relaxation, and entertainment, aiming to become a premier ...

Chianca, Dupont, and Von Rupp/Roseyro Crowned Champions at TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge
The TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge 2025/2026 concluded on December 13, 2025, after a day of colossal waves and incredible performances at Praia do Norte, Portugal. Despite facing challenges including fog delays and a power outage, the world's elite big wave surfers showcased their bravery and skill...

Subway Surfing Deaths Persist Despite MTA and Social Media Pushback
The risky trend of subway surfing continues to worry transit officials in major U.S. cities, with efforts by the MTA and social media companies yielding limited effect amid a steady death toll and viral videos fueling the dangerous practice among youth. Key Takeaways Subway surfing deaths have remai...

Surfing Santas Bring Holiday Cheer to Florida and Texas Beaches
Thousands gathered on beaches in Florida and Texas on Christmas Eve for the annual Surfing Santas event. Participants donned festive Santa Claus costumes to ride the waves, transforming beaches into a unique holiday spectacle. The tradition, which began in Florida, has expanded to include other loca...

WSL Welcomes Back Surfing Superstars Following Format Shift
The World Surf League (WSL) is experiencing a significant boost in star power as several of surfing's most prominent athletes are returning to the Championship Tour. This resurgence is widely attributed to the recent scrapping of the "Final 5" format, a change that appears to have appeased...

Bondi Beach Lifesavers: Unsung Heroes in the Face of Terror
In a horrific act of violence, gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Australia's iconic Bondi Beach, resulting in a tragic loss of life and numerous injuries. Amidst the chaos and terror, surf lifesavers emerged as beacons of courage, acting swiftly to provide aid and shelter to those affe...

Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos Crowns New Champions Amidst Thrilling Performances
The Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 2,000-level event, concluded with intense battles and standout performances. Surfers from North America showcased their high-performance skills in two-to-four-foot waves, vying for crucial points towards Challenger ...

Surfing Santas Make Waves: Festive Holiday Events Delight Crowds in Florida and Virginia
Hundreds of surfers donned Santa suits and festive attire to ride the waves at the annual Surfing Santas event in Cocoa Beach, Florida, bringing holiday cheer to thousands of spectators. Simultaneously, Virginia Beach hosted its own "Surf N Santa 5 Miler," a popular holiday-themed run that...

Nazaré Unleashes Monstrous Waves for TUDOR Big Wave Challenge
The legendary Praia do Norte in Nazaré, Portugal, once again lived up to its fearsome reputation as the TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge was called on for the 2025/2026 season. Surfers braved colossal waves, some estimated to be between 40-60 feet, in a thrilling display of skill, courage, and the ra...

Lucas Chianca and Justine Dupont Crowned Champions at Thrilling Nazaré Big Wave Challenge
The 2025-26 TUDOR Nazaré Big Wave Challenge delivered colossal waves and dramatic moments, ultimately crowning Lucas Chianca of Brazil and Justine Dupont of France as individual champions. Despite challenging conditions including fog and a power outage, the event managed to complete one round, showc...

Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos Heats Up: Finals Day Beckons for Top Contenders
The Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 2,000-level event, is nearing its thrilling conclusion. Competitors have battled through challenging heats in two-to-four-foot conditions, showcasing high-performance surfing as they vie for crucial points towards C...

Sierra Club Files Lawsuit Against San Diego Over Surf Cup Lease Changes
The Sierra Club has filed a lawsuit against the City of San Diego, alleging that officials violated state environmental laws when they revised a decades-old grant deed for Surf Cup Sports Park. The move by the City Council aimed to resolve a previous lawsuit concerning the commercial use of public p...

Historic Waves and Rising Stars at WSL International Wanning Corona Cero Pro
The WSL International Wanning Corona Cero Pro has concluded at Riyue Bay, Hainan Island, showcasing thrilling competition in both the QS 4000 and Pro Junior events. Surfers from across Asia battled challenging conditions and each other, with several historic firsts marking the competition's return t...

Tiger Shark Culled at Iconic Australian Surf Spot Amidst Rising Shark Concerns
A large tiger shark was captured and killed off Snapper Rocks, a renowned and heavily trafficked surf break on Australia's Gold Coast. The incident has ignited a fierce debate among the public and conservationists regarding shark management strategies, particularly in light of recent fatal shark att...

Sierra Club Files Lawsuit Against San Diego Over Surf Sports Park Lease Changes
The Sierra Club has filed a lawsuit against the City of San Diego, alleging violations of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) following the City Council's decision to terminate a historic grant deed and amend a lease for Surf Sports Park. The move by the City Council aimed to remove open...

Encinitas Extends Beach Access for Surf Schools, Overhauls Permitting Process
Encinitas City Council has granted a one-year permit extension for nine existing surf schools, allowing them to continue operating at their designated beach spots through the next year. This decision comes as the council also addresses a proposed overhaul of the surf school permitting system, aiming...

Eden Walla and John Mel Crowned Champions at SLO CAL Open Morro Bay
The SLO CAL Open Morro Bay, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 2,000-level event, concluded with thrilling finals, crowning Eden Walla and John Mel as champions. The competition showcased impressive performances from both established surfers and rising talents amidst challenging yet co...

Nazaré's Giants Unleashed: Young Surfers and Dramatic Rescues Mark Swell Season Opener
The legendary waves of Nazaré, Portugal, delivered a dramatic start to the big wave season, showcasing both incredible talent and perilous wipeouts. The famed Praia do Norte saw massive swells attract elite surfers, including a remarkable 13-year-old prodigy and seasoned professionals who faced chal...

Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos: A Thrilling Showcase of Talent and Waves
The Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos returned to the World Surf League Qualifying Series, delivering high-performance surfing and exciting competition. Held at the renowned Los Cerritos beach break in Baja California Sur, Mexico, the event saw top surfers battle for crucial points towards Challenger S...

John Mel and Eden Walla Crowned Champions at SLO CAL Open Morro Bay
The SLO CAL Open Morro Bay, a World Surf League Qualifying Series event, concluded with thrilling finals at Morro Rock. Surfers battled challenging conditions and elite competition for crucial points towards qualifying for the Challenger Series. The event drew significant attention, highlighting the...

Surf Coach Pleads Guilty to 31 Child Sex Offenses, Faces Early Parole
A former professional surfer and surf coach, Connor Lyons, has pleaded guilty to 31 child sex offenses, including grooming, indecent treatment, and the production of child abuse material. The 27-year-old, who once ranked 48th on the QS, was sentenced to five years in prison but could be eligible for...

Surf Coach Faces Parole Eligibility After Pleading Guilty to 31 Child Sex Offenses
A former Queensland surf coach, once ranked on the WSL Qualifying Series, is eligible for parole in six months after pleading guilty to 31 child sex offenses. Connor Lyons, 27, was sentenced to five years in prison for crimes including grooming, indecent treatment of children, and willful exposure, ...

Barron Mamiya Achieves Historic Back-to-Back Pipeline Victories
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Hawaiian surfer Barron Mamiya has secured consecutive wins at the iconic Banzai Pipeline in both the 2024 and 2025 seasons. This unprecedented achievement solidifies Mamiya's status as a dominant force on the North Shore, showcasing his mastery of ...

Surf City Approves Major Mixed-Use Development, Eyes Mayfaire Model
Surf City's planning board has granted conditional rezoning approval for Medlin Mixed-Use, a significant new development slated for a 46-acre site. The project aims to bring over 170 residential units and more than 100,000 square feet of commercial space to the area, with construction anticipated to...

Hayden Rodgers Crowned Champion at Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos
The Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 2,000 event, concluded on Sunday, November 23, 2025, delivering thrilling high-performance surfing at the renowned Los Cerritos beach break in Baja California Sur, Mexico. The event saw top North American talent com...

Fortnite's Surfing Stint: A Brief, Wave-Riding Detour
Fortnite, the ever-evolving battle royale phenomenon, recently introduced and subsequently removed a unique surfing mechanic as part of its latest update. This temporary addition saw players riding surfboards through a storm instead of the traditional Battle Bus, coinciding with a West Coast-themed ...

Oahu Surf Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Filmer Ramon Brockington
Hawaii's vibrant surf community is in mourning following the passing of Ramon Brockington, the cherished videographer behind Oahu Surf Films. For two decades, Brockington dedicated himself to capturing the essence of Hawaiian surf culture, documenting surfers of all levels with unwavering positivity...

Beach Haven's Iconic Water Park Joins Fantasy Island Family
The Wainwright Family, owners of Fantasy Island Amusement Park, has officially acquired Thundering Surf Water Park and Adventure Golf. This significant acquisition unites two of Beach Haven's most cherished family-owned summer destinations, promising a new era of fun and tradition for the Jersey Sho...

Kiara Goold and Finn McGill Conquer HTA Sunset Pro in Epic Final Day Showdown
The HTA Sunset Pro, a World Surf League Qualifying Series (WSL) 2,000-level event, concluded in spectacular fashion at Sunset Beach, Oahu. Fifteen-year-old Kiara Goold of Tahiti and Hawaii's Finn McGill emerged victorious, claiming their respective titles in powerful eight-to-twelve-foot waves. Both...

Hainan's Riyue Bay Surf Resort Launches, Offering Olympic-Grade Waves and a New Coastal Lifestyle
Riyue Bay Surf Resort has officially opened its doors in Wanning, Hainan, marking a significant moment for China's burgeoning surf culture and tourism. This premier surf-themed destination boasts cutting-edge wave technology, luxury accommodations, and a vibrant coastal atmosphere, aiming to attract...

Manokwari Pro Heats Up: Standout Performances and Close Battles Emerge in West Papua
The 2025 Manokwari Pro, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 2000 and Pro Junior event, is currently underway at Amban Beach in West Papua, Indonesia. The competition, running from November 26-30, has already delivered thrilling action, showcasing the region's top surfing talent as they ...

China's Premier Surf Resort, Riyue Bay, Opens in Hainan, Ushering in New Era of Marine Tourism
Riyue Bay Surf Resort officially opened its doors on November 11, marking a significant moment for China's burgeoning surf tourism industry. Located in Wanning, Hainan province, the resort is the nation's first dedicated surfing destination, aiming to blend athletic spectacle with a vibrant coastal ...

Score a Piece of Delaware History: Low-Digit Surf Fishing Plates Up for Auction
Delaware is once again offering a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to own a piece of its coastal heritage. The annual auction for low-digit surf fishing plates has commenced, allowing bidders to vie for coveted numbers that have historically fetched significant sums. These distinctive plates not o...

Keep smiling, dancing, shooting and laughing in heaven, Petter
It took me an entire day to try to get to terms with your loss, Petter. It's late now, and I still haven't managed. Because how could I? And rather I should say, how could we all? You danced around life, carefree and happy, and around you, we were always shining. Your bright light was immense, warm ...

Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos Heats Up Qualifying Series with High-Performance Surfing
The Corona Cero Surf Open Cerritos, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 2,000-level event, has returned to the renowned surf break of Los Cerritos, Baja California Sur, Mexico. The competition showcases North America's top male surfers battling for crucial points towards the Challenger ...

Washington City Welcomes $140 Million Zion Shores Surf Community
Washington City, Utah, is set to become a premier destination for wave enthusiasts with the commencement of construction for Zion Shores, a $140 million luxury surf community. The development features an advanced artificial surf park designed to offer consistent, ocean-like wave experiences, marking...

Sarah Baum and Dane Henry Crowned Champions at Newcastle SURFEST QS 2000
The Novotel Newcastle Women's Pro & Frame Promotional Products Men's Pro, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 2000 event, concluded at Merewether Beach with Sarah Baum of South Africa and Dane Henry of Australia taking home the coveted titles. The three-day competition, blessed with...