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

Arizona Catches the Wave: New Surf Parks Bring Ocean Thrills to the Desert
Arizona, a state synonymous with arid landscapes, is experiencing a wave of change with the emergence of new surf parks and wave pools. These innovative facilities are bringing the exhilarating experience of surfing to landlocked desert communities, offering a unique blend of aquatic recreation and ...

Sierra Kerr's Surfing Career Hit by Lyme Disease Diagnosis
Eighteen-year-old surfing prodigy Sierra Kerr has revealed a challenging health battle with Lyme disease, which has significantly impacted her competitive season. The diagnosis came after a period of severe illness that left her unable to stand on a surfboard for months. Key Takeaways Sierra Kerr, a...

Surf Air Mobility Bolsters Tech Strategy with Palantir Veteran Shawn Pelsinger Joining Board
Surf Air Mobility Inc. has announced the appointment of Shawn Pelsinger to its Board of Directors, effective October 8, 2025. Pelsinger, formerly of Palantir Technologies, brings extensive experience in enterprise software, data-driven platforms, and aviation technology, aiming to bolster Surf Air M...

Liberia's Uncrowded Waves: Surfing and Rebirth on Africa's Forgotten Coast
The coastline of Liberia is quickly emerging as a sought-after destination for adventurous surfers searching for uncrowded breaks and authentic cultural experiences. Far from the crowded lineups of mainstream surf spots, Liberia—especially around Robertsport—offers a rare blend of solitude, natural ...

Surf Legends Shine as Kelis Kaleopa'a and Kai Sallas Triumph at the 2025 Local Motion Surf Into Summer
The 2025 Local Motion Surf Into Summer At Home In The Hawaiian Islands wrapped up with stirring victories from Kelis Kaleopa'a and Kai Sallas, both reaffirming their elite status in world longboarding. Held at Ala Moana Bowls, O'ahu, the event showcased the region's top talents in near-perfect surf ...

Surf's Up: California and Florida Lead the Wave of Surf Parks and Premier Festivals
California and Florida are making bold moves in the world of surfing, both investing heavily in surf park developments and hosting prestigious surf events. While these initiatives ride the growing wave of surf culture, they also present unique economic, environmental, and social implications for bot...

Southern California Shines: Lindblad and Slawson Triumph at Lexus US Open of Surfing 2025
In a thrilling conclusion at Huntington Beach, Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson delivered a memorable Southern California sweep at the 2025 Lexus US Open of Surfing. Their victories crowned a week of intense competition and standout performances, cementing their status among surfing's brightest tale...

Quick Response Saves Two from Dangerous Surf at Ke Iki Beach
Early Sunday morning, a potentially tragic incident was averted when two swimmers were rescued after being swept out by powerful surf at Ke Iki Beach, located on Oahu's North Shore. Thanks to the swift actions of lifeguards, first responders, and a nearby bystander, both individuals were safely brou...

The Mediterranean Wakes Up - High Surf at Ghajn Tuffieha
This one felt so good! After a long, barren run, the Mediterranean finally woke up, with huge waves coming into Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. The swell, with over 2-meter waves, brought with it a huge collection of surfers as everyone got their feet wet. The waves were clean for the first couple of...

Southern California's Stars Shine: Lindblad and Slawson Rewrite the Record Books at 2025 Lexus US Open of Surfing
The sun-soaked shores of Huntington Beach, California witnessed southern California surfers Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson making history at the 2025 Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico. Both surfers capitalized on pulsing summer swells to claim breakthrough victories on Finals Day, cem...

Young Surfing Stars Shine as Virginia Beach Hosts National GromSearch Final
Virginia Beach's Atlantic Park Surf transformed into a hub for the nation's best young surfers as the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final took center stage, drawing 64 top athletes under 16 from across North America and putting the city in the surfing spotlight. Key Takeaways 64 elite youth surfers c...

Atlantic Fury: Hurricane Humberto and Imelda Hammer U.S. Coast With Rough Surf and Danger
Powerful hurricanes Humberto and Imelda have been churning the Atlantic, sending rough surf, high winds, and hazardous rip currents toward the eastern seaboard. With massive waves hitting beaches from New Jersey to Florida, officials are warning residents and visitors to stay away from the water as ...

Swells, Showdown, and Surfing Legends: 2025 WSL Finals Fiji Set for Historic World Title Clash
Surfing's grand finale is about to hit Fiji as the world's top athletes converge on Tavarua Island for the 2025 Lexus WSL Finals. With a major swell looming on the horizon, Cloudbreak and Restaurants are primed to stage this one-day, winner-take-all contest, where two surfers will claim the most cov...

Rising Stars Shine at Wild Atlantic Way Junior Pro and Nias Pro: Surfing's Next Generation Sets New Highs
A new generation of surfers made significant waves in Ireland and Indonesia as the Wild Atlantic Way Junior Pro and Nias Pro events delivered standout performances from junior and emerging talents, signaling an exciting future for international surfing. Key Takeaways Wild Atlantic Way Junior Pro in ...

Pacific Airshow Soars Over Huntington Beach With Thrilling Stunts and Family Fun
Surf City became the center of aviation excitement this weekend as the Pacific Airshow returned to Huntington Beach, drawing thousands of spectators to the sand, pier, and offshore waters. Featuring dazzling aerobatics, vintage aircraft flybys, and interactive experiences, the three-day event showca...

Lindblad and Slawson Crowned Champions at Thrilling US Open of Surfing
Huntington Beach, California – The iconic Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico concluded with a dramatic finals day, crowning Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson as champions. Surfers battled challenging three-to-six-foot waves, delivering exceptional performances that etched their names into...

Dramatic Rescues Unfold on Sonoma Coast Amidst Powerful Surf
Two separate water rescues occurred on the Sonoma Coast within a two-hour span on Sunday, highlighting the dangers of powerful surf. A 9-year-old girl and her mother were pulled from the water at Schoolhouse Beach after a wave swept the child away, prompting the mother to enter the surf. Bystanders ...

Lindblad and Slawson Crowned Champions at Thrilling Lexus US Open of Surfing
Huntington Beach, California, was once again the epicenter of professional surfing as the Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico concluded its exhilarating competition. The iconic Surf City USA delivered powerful waves and showcased the elite talent of both the Challenger Series and the Long...

Hurricane Narda Fuels Dangerous High Surf Along Southern California Coast
Hurricane Narda, though offshore, is generating significant swells and dangerous conditions along the Southern California coastline. The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement for beaches spanning from Santa Barbara County to San Diego County, including Catalina Island, warnin...

Lindblad and Slawson Conquer Huntington Beach in Thrilling Lexus US Open of Surfing Finale
The iconic Huntington Beach Pier was the stage for an electrifying conclusion to the Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico, where Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson emerged victorious. The event, a crucial stop on the World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series, saw top surfers battle for covet...

Dangerous Surf and Rip Currents Prompt Coastal Advisories Across Multiple Regions
Coastal areas are under high surf advisories due to dangerous conditions, with waves reaching up to 8 feet in some locations. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for strong rip currents, advising beachgoers to exercise extreme caution. These advisories are in effect for several days, im...

Florida Files Part II: Come Hell or Hightower
I barely slept last night. Maybe it was jet lag. But more likely, it was the fear of missing waves. John from Flohana hadn't replied since we met the day before. At 5 a.m., unable to wait any longer, I gave in to desperation and messaged local folks on Marketplace, hoping someone would rent out thei...

How to Read the Surf Forecast in Malta: A Local's Guide
Surfing in Malta isn't about daily consistency—it's about knowing when the Mediterranean is going to switch on. The island is surrounded by deep water, so swells arrive suddenly, often building fast and fading just as quickly. The secret to scoring is understanding which conditions work for which br...

Discover the Top 5 Surf Spots in Malta
Malta isn't the first place that pops into your head when you think "surf trip," but the island has a quietly growing surf scene. Sitting in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta doesn't have the constant ocean swell of Portugal or Morocco, but when the conditions line up, the waves here can be wor...

World Surf League Mourns Loss of Global Security Head Bern Page
The World Surf League (WSL) is in mourning following the passing of Bern Page, the organization's long-serving Global Head of Safety and Security. Page was instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of professional surfers and WSL events for nearly a decade. His dedication and professionalis...

Surf's Up: Beloved Animated Film Set for Small-Screen Adaptation
The critically acclaimed animated mockumentary "Surf's Up," known for its charming penguin surfers and star-studded voice cast, is making waves once again. Sony Pictures Animation's 2007 hit is being reimagined as a television series, promising to bring the icy shores of Antarctica to a ne...

The Cultural Disaster of Kelly Slater's Hometown
For those unfamiliar with the East Coast of the U.S.—particularly central Florida—it's a region known for its warm weather, diverse wildlife, and its share of tropical storms. And of course, the infamous image of the "Florida Man" has made headlines worldwide, adding a layer of chaotic charm to the ...

Sandro Dias Drops Into Skateboarding History with Record-Breaking Ramp
When it comes to skateboarding legends, Sandro Dias has always lived in rare air. A six-time world vert champion, an X Games icon, and one of the few men ever to land a 900 on vert, he has consistently pushed the limits of what's possible on four wheels. But his latest project with Red Bull has rewr...

Surf's Up: Beloved Animated Surfing Penguin Movie Set for TV Series Adaptation
The beloved 2007 animated mockumentary "Surf's Up," which followed the surfing aspirations of a teenage penguin named Cody Maverick, is making a splash on the small screen. Atomic Cartoons, a division of Thunderbird Entertainment Group, is developing "Surf's Up: The Series," brin...

BYD Dolphin Surf EV Embarks on a Surprising 1,000-Mile European Road Trip
A couple from Barcelona, Rafael Verástegui and his wife, recently completed a remarkable 1,000-mile road trip across Europe in their new BYD Dolphin Surf electric vehicle. Initially planning to use an RV, a mechanical failure led them to rely solely on the compact EV for their journey from Spain to ...

Remembering Bern Page: WSL Mourns Loss of Global Security Head
The World Surf League (WSL) is in mourning following the passing of Bern Page, the organization's dedicated Global Safety and Security Director. For nearly a decade, Page was instrumental in ensuring the well-being of professional surfers and the smooth operation of WSL events worldwide. His commitm...

Teenager's Tragic Death in TikTok Challenge Highlights Dangers of 'Subway Surfing'
A 15-year-old boy lost his life while participating in a dangerous TikTok challenge known as 'subway surfing.' The incident, which occurred on a subway train crossing the Williamsburg Bridge, has brought renewed attention to the perilous trend and its connection to social media platforms. This trage...

TikTok Challenge Turns Tragic: Teen Dies in 'Table Surfing' Stunt
A dangerous TikTok challenge has led to a tragic fatality and severe injuries, highlighting the perilous nature of viral online trends. A 17-year-old boy lost his life while participating in a "table surfing" stunt, and another young woman suffered life-altering brain injuries in a similar...

Nakashio and Tancred Conquer Billabong Tahara Pro in Challenging Conditions
Kana Nakashio of Japan and Caleb Tancred of Australia have emerged victorious at the 2025 Billabong Tahara Pro, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 6000 event held at Long Beach in Tahara City, Japan. The competition saw a strong field of Asia Pacific surfers battling for crucial Challe...

Ron Jon Surf Shop Founder Ron DiMenna, Who Rode Wave of Surf Culture, Dies at 88
Ron DiMenna, the visionary founder of the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop, has passed away at the age of 88. DiMenna transformed surfing from a fringe activity into a mainstream retail phenomenon, building his brand into a globally recognized symbol of surf and beach culture. His innovative approach and pa...

Essential Surf Fitness Training: How to Build Strength, Balance, and Endurance
Surfing is more than just catching waves—it's a full-body test of athleticism. From paddling through currents to popping up fast and maintaining control on the face of a wave, your body needs power, stability, and stamina. That's where surf fitness training comes in. By focusing on strength, balance...

Oceanfront Home Collapses Into Surf: 12th House Lost to Erosion on Outer Banks in Five Years
A beachfront stilt home on North Carolina's Outer Banks has collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean, marking the 12th such incident in the past five years. The unoccupied two-story house in Buxton, located on Hatteras Island, succumbed to erosion and the effects of Hurricane Erin, littering the beach with...

Marley's Cracks Open Autumn
Marley's finally woke up from its summer coma on Friday the 19th, and the place didn't disappoint. That wave is a cocktail of fun and fear, fast little runners, a rip that doesn't quit, and two reef slabs waiting to tattoo your body if you get lazy. Tempting, right? Well, we did see some blood...

Fiji: A Surfer's Paradise Offering Unforgettable Waves and Tropical Adventures
Fiji is emerging as a premier destination for surfers seeking a truly bucket-list experience. From the legendary waves of Cloudbreak to the pristine waters and vibrant culture, the islands offer a unique blend of world-class surfing and tropical relaxation. Recent events, including the World Surf Le...

Oceanside Welcomes Super Girl Surf Pro: A Celebration of Female Athletes and Empowerment
Oceanside, California is once again the epicenter of women's sports and culture as the Super Girl Surf Pro festival returns. This premier event, the world's largest women's surf, music, and lifestyle festival, brings together hundreds of female athletes to compete across various extreme sports, fost...

Fiji Beckons: Surfing's Elite Ready to Crown World Champions at Lexus WSL Finals
The world's top surfers are converging on the legendary waves of Cloudbreak, Fiji, for the Lexus WSL Finals Presented by Corona Cero. This winner-take-all event will decide the 2025 World Surf League Champions, with the competition window opening August 27th and running through September 4th. The si...

Chris Hemsworth Celebrates Son Sasha's Surfing Victory in Byron Bay
Hollywood star Chris Hemsworth was recently spotted in his hometown of Byron Bay, Australia, cheering on his 11-year-old son, Sasha, at a local surf competition. The proud father, who had just returned from a surfing trip in Fiji, was joined by his parents, Craig and Leonie Hemsworth, making for a h...

Mid-Atlantic Braces for Dangerous Surf and Heavy Rain as Coastal Storm Looms
A powerful coastal storm is currently impacting the mid-Atlantic region, bringing with it heavy rainfall, strong winds, and hazardous surf conditions. Residents along the coast, particularly in North Carolina, Virginia, and the Delmarva Peninsula, are being warned of potential flooding and dangerous...

Santa Cruz Surfing Generates Nearly $200 Million Annually, Study Reveals
A groundbreaking study has quantified the significant economic impact of surfing on Santa Cruz, California, revealing that the sport contributes nearly $200 million to the local economy each year. The research, conducted by the Save The Waves Coalition in partnership with Integral Consulting and Bla...

Movie Review: Incredibly intense, The Surfer will draw you in and spit you out
Nicolas Cage's 2025 hit movie The Surfer is a world of emotion crammed into 1 hour 43 minutes of intensity. It's hot, frustrating, and somewhat annoying, and you can literally feel those flies stick to your face in the sweaty heat as your eyes are glued to the screen. Something terrible should happe...

Lelior and Piter Crowned Champions at Lacanau Pro; Caparica Surf Fest Sets Stage for European QS Finals
The World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) recently concluded the Caraïbos Lacanau Pro in France, crowning Anat Lelior and Sam Piter as champions. Meanwhile, the Caparica Surf Fest in Portugal is gearing up to determine the overall 2024/2025 WSL Europe QS season winners and Challenger Series...

The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Surfing in the Mediterranean
When people think of surfing, they often picture Hawaii's legendary waves or Australia's golden coasts. But tucked away in Europe, the Mediterranean Sea is quietly building its own surf culture. From Malta's reef breaks to Spain's bustling surf schools, the Med is becoming an accessible and exciting...

Molly Picklum's Rise: The 2025 Women's CT Season Review
Right, you've read how Yago Dora stormed to victory in the men's CT tour, now dive in and see how Molly Picklum picked her battles to win the 2026 women's Championship Tour! A Season of Opportunity With previous world champ Caitlin "Caity" Simmers defending, and a field full of both veterans and hun...

Australia Claims Team Gold at 2025 ISA World Surfing Games; Janire Gonzalez-Etxabarri Makes History for Spain
Australia has been crowned the Team World Champion at the 2025 Surf City El Salvador ISA World Surfing Games. The event concluded with thrilling finals, showcasing exceptional talent and historic achievements for both individual surfers and their nations. Dane Henry of Australia secured the men's in...

WSL Season Review: Yago Dora's Year: A Season of High Stakes & Heavy Water
A Tour With Teeth The 2025 WSL Men's Championship Tour never gave anyone a free ride. From the opening horn at Pipeline to the final wave at Cloudbreak, this season was a constant grind of pressure, surprise, and spectacle. With John John Florence sitting out and veterans like Kelly Slater no longer...