The Surfer's Diet: Fueling the Stoke

•
•

Live Surf Cams

Surfline Live is a 24/7 glimpse into the world’s surf.

This stream moves through Surfline's global camera network, showing spots where it’s daylight and rated Fair or better.

What's The Deal With...?

Surf Gear Essentials

Why should I consider using one on my board?

If you’re surfing shortboards and trying more radical maneuvers, a traction pad gives you that locked-in confidence. When you’re flying down the line and need to slam a bottom turn or hit the lip, your back foot needs to be planted. The extra grip lets you really drive through your turns and control your board powerfully. For grovelers or small-wave boards, it helps you pump and generate speed more effectively. It’s a game-changer for control.

What’s the difference between water-resistant and waterproof sunscreen?

Nothing is truly “waterproof.“ “Water-resistant” means it maintains its SPF level for a specific time while you’re in the drink—usually 40 or 80 minutes. After that, its effectiveness drops. That’s why reapplication is crucial. Always check the label for the water-resistance time and plan to re-up accordingly. No sunscreen can survive a full four-hour session without a touch-up.

What’s the deal with different wax temps?

It’s all about matching the wax to the water temp. Cold wax is hard for icy waves, tropical wax is soft for warm water. Using the wrong one is a nightmare—it either turns to slime or stays rock hard, and you’ll be slipping off your board. Check the water temp before you wax up. A good basecoat of base wax first helps any top coat stick better, giving you that solid foundation for maximum grip in your specific session.

Surf Culture & Community

Where can I find cool surf art for my place?

Stoked you want to bring the vibe home! Check out local galleries in coastal towns—they often feature amazing artists. Online, sites like Etsy or Society6 have tons of independent creators selling prints. Don’t forget about vintage surf magazine posters or high-quality prints from legendary surf photographers. Even a well-loved, sun-bleached old board mounted on the wall is the ultimate art piece. Support artists who live the life!

What’s a surf voluntourism trip?

It’s a mission that combines chasing swells with meaningful work. Instead of just a standard surf safari, you travel to a destination to help out—like teaching local kids to surf, assisting with coral restoration, or building infrastructure for a community. You still get to explore new lineups, but you also immerse yourself in the local culture and leave the place better than you found it. It’s the deepest form of travel for the soul surfer.

How can reading a mag get me more stoked for my local sessions?

Even when it’s flat or you’re stuck inland, cracking open a mag feeds the stoke. Reading about swells, seeing epic waves, and immersing yourself in the culture keeps the fire burning. It gets you psyched to paddle out, even in less-than-perfect conditions. You might learn a new approach to your home break or get inspired to try a different board. It’s a constant reminder of why you surf, turning those between-swell blues into motivated anticipation for the next dawn patrol.