13 Celebs Who Are Total Pros at Surfing (and Love Every Wave)

Hollywood's Wave Riders: 13 Celebs Who Crush it at Surfing

Alright, imagine this: you’re chilling at your favorite beach, board in hand, ready to catch some waves—and then, bam! You see a familiar face paddle out next to you. Yep, some of Hollywood’s biggest names are just as stoked about surfing as you are! Here’s a rundown of 13 celebs who not only love surfing but are seriously skilled at it, too.

1. Matthew McConaughey

Picture this: Matthew McConaughey, classic Texan drawl and all, chilling on a surfboard and looking as “alright, alright, alright” as ever. Though he’s from Texas, the guy has found his second home in the waves of Malibu and Kauai. McConaughey once said that surfing is more than just a sport—it’s his mental escape, fitness regimen, and favorite excuse to go shirtless (obviously). Locals say he’s got a smooth, easy style, just flowing with the waves. He even takes his kids out on the water, passing down those laid-back vibes. When he’s out there, it’s all about the sun, surf, and pure freedom.

2. Chris Hemsworth

You’d think playing Thor would be enough action for one guy, but Chris Hemsworth is just as legendary on the waves. Growing up in Australia, he’s been catching waves since he was a kid, and it shows—this guy surfs like he’s part fish. Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky often hit Byron Bay, where they live, and it’s common to see him shredding waves like he’s born to it. Surfing helps him balance his action-packed movie roles, and honestly, it’s his secret weapon for those killer abs. Word has it, he’s even taught his kids how to surf, so we can look forward to a whole new generation of Hemsworths tearing it up out there.

3. Lady Gaga

I know—Lady Gaga and surfing isn’t exactly the first pairing that comes to mind, right? But get this: she’s been spotted hitting up the Malibu waves, showing us all that she’s got skills beyond singing and wild fashion. Gaga started surfing a few years back and quickly caught the bug. She calls it her “secret escape” where she can totally unplug. No makeup, no stage costumes—just Gaga, the waves, and pure relaxation. And of course, because she’s Gaga, she makes even surfing look like an art form. She’s reportedly dedicated to improving her skills, so don’t be surprised if you catch her catching some impressive waves.

4. Kelly Slater

Alright, this might feel like cheating, because Kelly Slater is a pro surfer, but let’s be real—you can’t leave the GOAT out of a list like this. An 11-time world champion, Kelly Slater is practically synonymous with surfing. Even if he didn’t have to surf to make a living, you just know he’d still be out there every morning, chasing waves. He’s friends with half of Hollywood and occasionally even takes stars like Matthew McConaughey out for lessons. Kelly’s love for the ocean goes beyond the sport; he’s a fierce advocate for marine conservation and sustainable surfwear. Legend has it, he still challenges himself every day, constantly looking for new ways to ride waves.

5. Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz is the ultimate beach girl, and she’s been surfing long before it was cool. She picked it up while filming Charlie’s Angels and got totally hooked. Now, she’s often spotted hitting up the waves in Hawaii and California. Surfing, she says, gives her an unmatched sense of freedom—like she’s floating on the edge of the world. Cameron even took lessons from none other than Kelly Slater, which explains why she’s so smooth and confident on her board. Whether it’s on a big wave or just paddling out for a bit, surfing keeps her balanced, happy, and connected to the ocean.

6. Liam Hemsworth

Surfing seems to be a must in the Hemsworth family playbook, and Liam Hemsworth is right there with his brother Chris on the waves. Growing up in Australia, Liam spent his teenage years hitting the surf, and even though Hollywood called, he’s never stopped paddling out. The dude’s style is laid-back yet powerful, and he credits surfing with helping him stay grounded and healthy. Liam’s said he feels the most “at home” on the water, where fame fades away, and it’s just him, his board, and the surf.

7. Zoë Kravitz

Zoë Kravitz might be known for her killer style and indie film roles, but she’s also got some serious surfing skills. Zoë took up surfing as a way to connect with nature and unwind, and now she’s totally hooked. She’s been spotted catching waves in California and Costa Rica, looking effortlessly cool (as always). Zoë says the ocean helps her clear her mind, and surfing brings a peaceful balance to her sometimes hectic life. When she’s out there, it’s not about fame or being seen—it’s about finding freedom in the waves.

8. Woody Harrelson

Woody Harrelson is the definition of a free spirit, so it’s no surprise that he loves surfing. He’s been riding waves for decades and says the ocean is his ultimate place to find peace. Woody splits his time between Hawaii and California, where he’s often spotted on a board, just soaking up the sun and surf. For him, it’s all about the natural rhythm of the waves, the salt in the air, and letting go of everything. And trust me, Woody on a board is just as chill as you’d imagine—he’s a natural.

9. Rob Machado

Another legendary name in surfing, Rob Machado is known for his iconic long curls and soul-surfer vibe. Even though he’s a professional, he embodies the laid-back essence of surfing like no one else. Rob’s all about connecting with nature, respecting the ocean, and spreading positive vibes. He’s even collaborated on eco-friendly surfboards, blending his love for surfing with his commitment to the environment. Whether he’s competing or just cruising the waves, Rob reminds us that surfing is as much about the spirit as it is the sport.

10. Shailene Woodley

Shailene Woodley is the Hollywood earthy girl, so it makes sense that she’s a fan of surfing. Known for her roles in Divergent and Big Little Lies, she’s just as comfortable on a surfboard as she is on screen. Shailene often surfs in California and Hawaii, using the sport to connect with nature and herself. She’s into natural living, so surfing aligns perfectly with her vibe. It’s her escape, her therapy, and a big part of her life philosophy: live simply, and let the ocean work its magic.

11. Eddie Vedder

The Pearl Jam frontman is not just a rock icon—he’s a devoted surfer, too. Growing up in Southern California, Eddie Vedder learned to surf as a kid and never let it go. He’s a regular in the water and even incorporates surfing into his music. For Eddie, surfing is about balance, freedom, and tuning out the noise of fame. Whether he’s surfing solo or with friends, he’s known for his respect for the ocean and his mellow, soulful approach to every wave.

12. Gisele Bündchen

The supermodel of supermodels, Gisele Bündchen, might seem like she was born to be on the runway, but she’s just as at home on the waves. Growing up in Brazil, Gisele fell in love with surfing at a young age and still surfs when she’s not busy conquering the fashion world. She often hits the waves in Costa Rica, where she has a home, and considers surfing an essential part of her wellness routine. Gisele says it keeps her grounded, humble, and reminds her of life’s natural rhythm.

13. Jason Momoa

Is there anything Jason Momoa can’t do? The Aquaman star is as rugged and wild on the waves as he is on land. Jason grew up in Hawaii, and surfing has always been part of his life. For him, it’s not just a hobby but a way to stay connected to his roots and nature. Momoa’s all about big waves, Hawaiian breaks, and a no-fear approach to surfing. He often takes his kids out too, making surfing a family affair. Out there, he’s not a superhero—he’s just Jason, in his element.

So, there you have it—the stars who are just as at home on a surfboard as they are on the red carpet. For these 13 celebs, surfing isn’t just a side hobby; it’s their passion, their escape, and their way to stay connected with nature. Whether it’s Chris Hemsworth catching waves with family in Australia or Lady Gaga finding peace in Malibu, each of them finds something deeper in the rhythm of the ocean. They’re all about that rush of freedom, the endless chase of the perfect wave, and the pure joy of being out in the water. So, next time you’re out surfing, keep an eye on the lineup—you might just spot a familiar face paddling out next to you. Stay tuned for more stories of stoke, surf, and celebrity here at Woke Waves Magazine!

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