Surf culture in Brazil: roots and evolution until 2024

2 years back Kesia Araujo 17 minutes reading time

Brazilian surfing has a rich and fascinating history. From the beaches of Hawaii to the coasts of Brazil, this sport has come a long way. The evolution of surfing in the country is an exciting journey that deserves to be told.

The history of surfing began over 500 years ago in the Pacific islands. In Brazil, surfing culture has developed in a unique way, blending global influences with the Brazilian way of life. This sport isn't just about waves, it's about an entire lifestyle.

From the first surfers to world champions like Gabriel Medina and Ítalo Ferreira, Brazilian surfing has undergone an incredible transformation. Today, the country is recognized internationally as a powerhouse in the sport.

The evolution of surfing in Brazil goes beyond the boards. It encompasses technology, social media, economics, and even environmental awareness. It's a story of passion, dedication, and respect for the sea that continues to this day.

The origins of surfing in Brazil

Surfing in Brazil has a rich and diverse history. Surfing was first introduced to Brazil in 1938, on Santos Beach, São Paulo. This was the starting point for a passion that would soon spread throughout the Brazilian coast.

The first Brazilian surfers were pioneers in creating their own boards. In 1938, the manufacture of the first Brazilian surfboard marked a historic moment. Inspired by a design published in Popular Mechanics magazine in 1933, enthusiasts began experimenting with hollow wooden boards between 1934 and 1937.

Surfing in Rio de Janeiro gained momentum in the 1960s, influenced by the Californian scene. Beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema became surfing hotspots, cementing the city's surfing culture.

Surfing's expansion wasn't limited to Santos and Rio de Janeiro. The sport gained followers in several states, including Santa Catarina, Bahia, Pernambuco, and Rio Grande do Sul. Each region developed its own style of surfing, contributing to the rich diversity of Brazilian surfing.

Year	Event
1933	Posting the board project on Popular Mechanics
1934-1937	First records of surfing in Santos
1938	Manufacturing of the first Brazilian surfboard
1960s	Consolidation of surfing in Rio de Janeiro

The female presence was fundamental in the development of surf culture in Brazil. Surfers such as Fernanda Guerra, Maria Helena Beltrão, and Heliana Oliveira contributed significantly to the growth of the sport in the country.

Surfing quickly became part of Brazilian identity, evolving from a hobby to a lifestyle. Even during the dictatorship, the sport maintained its countercultural character, influencing its institutionalization as a sporting activity in Brazil.

Surf culture in Brazil: formation and identity

Surfing culture in Brazil has flourished, creating a Brazilian surfer identity unique. Since the 1960s, the sport has gained popularity, shaping not only athletes but an entire lifestyle.

The Brazilian surfing style is recognized for its boldness and creativity. This characteristic reflects the country's vibrant personality, blending international techniques with the Brazilian way of riding the waves.

Beach culture in Brazil goes beyond sports. It encompasses music, fashion, and art, creating a rich and diverse cultural ecosystem. Surfing communities along the coast have contributed significantly to this development.

The economic impact of surfing is remarkable. The Brazilian market generates over R$5 billion annually, making it the world's second-largest consumer of surfing-related products.

Aspect	Given
Annual market movement	More than 5 billion reais
Surfing article consumption ranking	2nd place worldwide
Consumption by supporters	90% of the total
Industry growth forecast	Between 5% and 10%

Brazilian surfing isn't limited to the beaches. It influences fashion, music, and even urban behavior, solidifying its position as an integral part of the national identity.

Evolution of boards and equipment on the national scene

Brazilian surfing has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades. Brazilian surfboards have evolved from simple wooden boards to sophisticated equipment, reflecting the advancement of surfing technology in the country.

In 1938, the first surfboards in Brazil averaged 12'10" in length. In the 1950s, the Madeirite model gained popularity on the beaches. The 1980s brought the revolutionary three-fin boards, known as Thrusters.

Brazilian shapers have gained recognition for their innovations. FESTIVALMA, an event celebrating the art of shaping, saw its collection grow from 25 boards in 2008 to 50 in 2010, with plans to expand to 75 boards.

The national surfing equipment industry has flourished, producing wetsuits and accessories tailored to local conditions. Tropical Brasil, the largest surfboard factory in Latin America, produces up to 3,000 boards per month.

Year	Innovation
1938	First surfboards in Brazil
1950s	Popularization of the Madeirite model
80s	Introduction to Thrusters boards
90s	Popularization of fun boards and hybrid boards
2000s	Development of boards for big waves

The surfwear industry has also grown significantly, generating approximately R$1.4 billion annually and employing 140,000 people directly and indirectly. This growth has driven the development of surfing technologies, solidifying Brazil as a major player in the global surfing scene.

Main surf spots on the Brazilian coast

Brazil is a surf lover's paradise, with over 7,000 km of coastline dotted with surfing beaches. Brazilian surf destinations offer an impressive diversity of waves, attracting surfers of all skill levels.

The best Brazilian waves can be found in places like Praia da Vila in Imbituba, Santa Catarina, where waves reach an incredible 3.5 meters. Itacoatiara, in Niterói, is famous for its heavy, tubular waves, ideal for experienced surfers.

Maresias, in São Paulo, and Joaquina, in Florianópolis, are known as high-performance spots, offering challenges for skilled surfers. In the Northeast, Fernando de Noronha stands out with the famous Cacimba do Padre Beach, which attracts surfers from all over the world with its tubular waves.

For beginners, Ubatuba is an excellent destination, with over 70 beaches to practice the sport. The surfing season in Brazil generally runs from March to August, varying by region.

Beach	State	Main Feature
Vila Beach	SC	Waves up to 3.5 meters
Itacoatiara	RJ	Tubular and heavy waves
Sea breezes	SP	High performance peak
Joaquina	SC	Challenging waves up to 3 meters
Priest's Well	FOOT	Tubular waves for experienced surfers

The surfing boom of the 80s and 90s

The 1980s and 1990s marked a period of intense popularization for surfing in Brazil. The sport gained national visibility, attracting a growing number of surfers and boosting the ocean-related economy. Surf culture in the 1980s and 1990s established itself as a lifestyle, influencing fashion, music, and behavior.

Brazilian surfwear flourished during this period, with national brands gaining prominence in the market. The surf fashion industry began to generate hundreds of millions of reais annually, reflecting the growth of the sport in the country. Events like the Hang Loose Pro Contest in Florianópolis helped establish Brazil on the global competition circuit.

The expansion of surfing to different regions of the country, such as Santos, Guarujá, Ubatuba, and the Northeast, brought economic growth to these areas. Santa Catarina emerged as a new national surfing hub, attracting athletes from all over Brazil with its excellent conditions for practicing the sport.

Decade	Important Milestones
80s	Emergence of national surfwear brands
90s	Increase in national and international competitions
1990-2000	Expansion of surfing to new regions of Brazil

The surfing boom of the 1980s and 1990s laid the foundation for Brazil's international success in the sport. This period of growth and popularity paved the way for future achievements by Brazilian surfers in global competitions, solidifying the country as a powerhouse in the international surfing scene.

Brazil in the international competitive scenario

Brazil has established itself as a powerhouse in global surfing. The rise of champion Brazilian surfers in the World Surf League (WSL) has transformed the competitive landscape. In 2024, Brazilian athletes won eight of the ten world circuit events, demonstrating Brazil's dominance in the sport.

The phenomenon known as the Brazilian Storm gained momentum with the achievements of Gabriel Medina, the first Brazilian world champion in 2014, followed by Adriano de Souza in 2015 and Ítalo Ferreira in 2019. This sequence of victories consolidated Brazil as a reference in international surfing.

Statistic	Value
Brazilian athletes on the world circuit	14 of 33
Stages won by Brazilians in 2024	8 of 10
Brazilians in the top 44 in 1994	8

The success of Brazilian surfers is attributed to factors such as their competitive spirit, the country's extensive 7,500-km coastline, the diversity of waves, and the country's warm waters. These elements, combined with the athletes' talent and dedication, have created an environment conducive to the development of world champions.

“These days, surfing is dominated by Brazilians due to its competitive nature, Brazil's extensive coastline, abundance of waves, and warm water.” – João Valente, industry expert

Brazil's strong presence on the international competitive scene has not only elevated the country's status in world surfing, but has also driven the growth of the sport-related industry and tourism in the country.

Surfing and lifestyle: beyond the waves

Surfing in Brazil is much more than just a sport. It has become a lifestyle that influences many aspects of daily life. Beach culture has spread throughout the country, creating a unique identity that transcends the sand and the sea.

Surf fashion is a clear example of this influence. The surfwear market in Brazil is significant, generating billions of dollars annually. Brands don't limit themselves to apparel for surfing, but also set trends in casual wear.

Surfing's impact on the economy is remarkable. The industry generates approximately US$1.4 billion annually, encompassing not only equipment but also tourism and events. Beaches like São Miguel do Gostoso and São José, in Rio Grande do Norte, attract surfers from all over the world, boosting the local economy.

Beach culture is also reflected in Brazilian music and art. Many artists incorporate surfing elements into their work, creating a unique aesthetic that celebrates the connection with the ocean and nature.

“Surfing is more than a sport, it’s a lifestyle that teaches us to respect and value the environment.”

International Surfing Day, celebrated every third Saturday in June, is an opportunity to celebrate this lifestyle and raise awareness about the preservation of oceans and beaches. This date reflects the surfing community's commitment to sustainability.

Aspect	Impact of the Surfer Lifestyle
Fashion	Influence on the surfwear and casual clothing market
Economy	Movement of US$1.4 billion/year
Tourism	Attracting visitors to surf destinations
Culture	Inspiration for Brazilian music and art
Environment	Promoting awareness and preservation

The economic impact of surfing in Brazil

The surfing industry in Brazil is a growing economic giant. In 2022, the global surfing equipment market generated US$4.4 billion, with Brazil accounting for approximately US$1.32 billion of that value. This impressive figure reflects the strength of the country's surfing economy.

Surf tourism also contributes significantly to local economies. The 2022 Saquarema stage of the World Surfing Circuit generated an impact of R$1,400,000. This event not only boosts tourism but also creates jobs and attracts investment to coastal regions.

Brazilian viewership represents 35% of the global audience watching surfing events, totaling 9.1 million views on streaming platforms. This growing interest is reflected in the number of fans: in 2021, 41% of Brazilians declared themselves surfing fans, a significant increase compared to the 26% in 2013.

Year	Percentage of surf fans	Estimated number of fans
2013	26%	Not available
2021	41%	45.3 million

Surfing not only boosts the economy but also promotes sustainability. Legal protection of surf spots has been linked to positive impacts on the marine environment and biodiversity. This approach, known as “surfonomics,” helps enhance the value of natural resources and catalyzes environmental protection, benefiting both the surf industry as the coastal ecosystem.

Sustainability and environmental awareness in the surfing community

Sustainable surfing has been gaining momentum in Brazil, with the surfing community taking on a crucial role in beach preservation. In Garopaba, Santa Catarina, known as the "Surfing Capital of Santa Catarina," a study revealed that surfers demonstrate greater environmental awareness than non-surfing tourists.

THE beach preservation has become a priority for many surfers, who recognize the importance of marine ecology for the survival of the sport. The Desengarrafando Mentes project in Maresias is an example of this awareness, holding workshops in public schools on how to assemble surfboards from PET bottles.

This project not only reuses discarded materials but also educates young people about the importance of environmental preservation. The initiative has been well-received by the surfing community, encouraging reflection on environmental stewardship.

“The main objective of Desengarrafando Mentes is to generate socio-environmental awareness in children and adolescents.”

However, the growth of the surfing industry in Brazil has raised concerns about the loss of the caiçara essence and the surfers' relationship with the sea. It's crucial to maintain a balance between the development of the sport and environmental preservation.

Aspect	Impact
Brazilian world titles	Significant increase in surfers in Brazil
Unbottling Minds Project	Environmental awareness among young people in Maresias
Growth of the surf industry	Risk of loss of the caiçara essence

The role of social media in the evolution of Brazilian surfing

Social media has transformed the surfing scene in Brazil. surfing on social networks gained momentum after Gabriel Medina won the 2014 World Championship. Since then, the country has become the second-most represented in the sport's global elite, behind only Australia.

The new generation of Brazilian surfers, dubbed the "Brazilian Storm," has gained traction on digital platforms. Names like Felipe Toledo, Adriano de Souza, and Italo Ferreira have gained global visibility thanks to digital marketing in surfing.

Surf influencers have emerged as key players in this process. They share experiences in real time, bringing fans and athletes closer together. Instagram and YouTube have become showcases for Brazilian talent, impacting trends and behaviors within the surfing community.

Platform	Impact on Brazilian Surfing
Instagram	Sharing photos and videos of maneuvers, connecting surfers and fans
YouTube	Travel vlogs, surf tutorials, and championship coverage
TikTok	Short videos of impressive stunts and fun moments

Digital marketing has revolutionized the promotion of surf brands and events. Social media has expanded the reach and visibility of Brazilian surfing globally, attracting sponsorships and opportunities for athletes. This exposure has contributed to the growth of the sport in the country and solidified Brazil's position as a powerhouse on the global surfing scene.

Prospects for the future of surfing in Brazil until 2024

The future of Brazilian surfing looks promising, with recent achievements pointing to an exciting future. At the Taça Brasil 5000 São Chico Pro, Weslley Dantas and Larissa Dos Santos emerged as winners, showcasing the high level of Brazilian athletes. This event marked the opening of the 2024 professional circuit of the Santa Catarina Surfing Federation, signaling a season full of innovations in surfing.

Surfing's growth goes beyond competitions. Arara Surf Camp, in Pipa, Rio Grande do Norte, exemplifies how the sport impacts tourism and the local economy. With 18 professionals and over 70 boards, the company serves surfers from around the world, offering packages that include lessons, yoga, and other activities. This holistic approach reflects the evolution of surfing as a lifestyle, a trend that is expected to strengthen in the coming years.

The future of Brazilian surfing through 2024 promises to be marked by more technological innovation, sustainable development, and economic growth. With Embratur's support promoting surfing destinations internationally, an increase in surf-related tourism is expected. The combination of emerging talent, expanding infrastructure, and global recognition positions Brazil as a leading player in the global surfing scene.

FAQ

When did surfing arrive in Brazil?

Surfing arrived in Brazil in the early 20th century, with the first waves being surfed in Rio de Janeiro. Influenced by Hawaiian and Californian culture, the sport gradually gained followers on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

Who were the pioneering figures of surfing in Brazil?

Pioneering figures like Thomas Rittscher and Osmar Gonçalves were fundamental to the spread of surfing in the country, introducing techniques and equipment that would give rise to Brazilian surfing culture.

What are the characteristics of the Brazilian surfing style?

The Brazilian surfing style is known for its boldness and creativity, reflecting the country's vibrant personality.

How has the surfing equipment industry evolved in Brazil?

The Brazilian surfing equipment industry has grown, producing wetsuits, accessories, and technology tailored to Brazilian conditions. Brands like Mormaii and Osklen have become global benchmarks.

What are some of the best surf spots on the Brazilian coast?

Beaches such as Maresias (SP), Joaquina (SC), Praia do Rosa (SC), Fernando de Noronha (PE) and Itacaré (BA) have become iconic destinations for national and international surfers.

When did surfing gain popularity in Brazil?

The 1980s and 1990s marked a period of surfing boom in Brazil. The sport gained media visibility, attracting a growing number of surfers.

Who are the main internationally successful Brazilian surfers?

Athletes like Gabriel Medina, Adriano de Souza, and Ítalo Ferreira, all world champions, marked the phenomenon known as the “Brazilian Storm” on the international competitive scene.

How does surfing influence lifestyle in Brazil?

Surfing transcends sport, influencing a distinctive lifestyle in Brazil. Surfing culture impacts fashion, music, art, and behavior, creating an identity that extends beyond the beaches.

What is the economic impact of surfing in Brazil?

Surfing generates a significant economic impact in Brazil. The surfing industry, including equipment manufacturing, apparel, and tourism, generates billions annually.

How does the Brazilian surfing community promote sustainability?

The Brazilian surfing community has stood out in promoting sustainability and environmental awareness, with initiatives to clean beaches, protect marine ecosystems, and use sustainable materials.

What is the role of social media in the evolution of Brazilian surfing?

Social media has revolutionized the way surfing is promoted and consumed in Brazil, allowing surfers to share their experiences in real time and creating digital surf influencers.

What are the prospects for the future of surfing in Brazil until 2024?

The future of Brazilian surfing until 2024 looks promising, with participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the emergence of new technologies and the development of artificial wave pools.