5 surf books to add to your beach bag
August 1, 2025Looking for the best surf books to keep the stoke alive between sessions? Then these surf and travel reads are the perfect companions. From gripping surf memoirs to inspiring books about freedom, this list is your go-to guide for what to read on a surf trip (or when you’re dreaming about your next one!).
Our favorite days are made of early mornings, glossy waves, zink on our skin and our best buddies in the lineup. Other days are made for dreaming about them, and dreaming about that feeling that only you on your surfboard can provide. And what better way to do so than to dive into a book written by someone who truly gets it?
Why reading surf books are a must for every surfer
The best way to keep the surf stoke alive outside of the water is through the pages of a great surf book.
These handpicked surf books bring the waves to you through stories of obsession, adventure, and soul surfing. Add these five must-reads to your beach bag and get inspired for your next surf trip or downtime between sessions, you can thank us later.
Our top 5 surf books every surfer should read
Barbarian Days by William Finnegan
In Search of Captain Zero by Allan Weisbecker
Let My People Go Surfing by Yvon Chouinard
For the Love by Kelly Slater
The Wave: In Pursuit of the Rogues, Freaks, and Giants of the Ocean by Susan Casey
1. Barbarian Days, by William Finnegan
An all-time classic. This Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir takes you deep into the mind of a lifelong surfer. It’s raw, poetic, and unforgettable, and a must-read for anyone obsessed with waves.
2. In Search of Captain Zero, by Allan Weisbecker
A true tale of surf, mystery, and freedom. Join Weisbecker on his wild van journey through Central America in search of a long-lost friend (and perfect waves).
3. Let My People Go Surfing, by Yvon Chouinard
This one is more than a surf book, it’s a philosophy. The founder of Patagonia shares how surfing shaped his approach to business, nature, and life.
4. For the Love, by Kelly Slater
Of course the MVP makes the list! Part memoir, part reflection, this book from 2008 offers an intimate look into the life, mindset, and passion of the world surfing champion Kelly Slater. A must for anyone who wants to understand the drive of one of the greatest surfers of all time.
5. The Wave: In Pursuit of the Rogues, Freaks, and Giants of the Ocean, by Susan Casey
This thrilling book dives deep into the world of giant waves and the surfers who chase them. Susan Casey combines adventure writing with scientific insight, exploring the power, danger, and beauty of the ocean’s biggest and most mysterious waves. It’s an epic read for anyone fascinated by extreme surf and nature’s raw force.
"Can surf books help me become a better surfer?"
While most books won’t teach technique (unless that’s the kind you’re going for), surf books can inspire you and deepen your understanding of surf culture, lifestyle, and mindset – all of which are key parts of becoming a better surfer.
“Where can I buy these surf books internationally?”
These books are widely available on Amazon, Book Depository, and major international bookstores. Many also offer e-book and audio book versions.
These books are your perfect beach companions. So grab one, find your favorite spot by the shore, and let the stories of surf and adventure carry you away. Happy reading, and even happier surfing!
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Beatrice Lindfors
About the author: My name is Beatrice, but Bea for short, and I’ve been a writer and content creator for Lapoint since 2022. My life revolves around my laptop and backpack as I travel the world (always with a stop in Ericeira; the camp vibe there and the Portuguese sunset have my heart). Life goal? Visit every country.
Obsession? The Sri Lanka waves, the Atlantic Ocean and tracking down the best coffee –whichever my current location is.
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