Surfing isn’t just for thrill-seekers; it’s also a favored pastime among Hollywood’s elite. Maybe it’s the southern California waves or perhaps the full-body workout, but either way, this water sport has found a variety of celebrity enthusiasts. Here’s a list of five celebrities who are no strangers to the surf.
5. Eddie Vedder
At the age of 12, Vedder discovered two passions that would shape his life: music and surfing. His love for riding the waves didn’t fade away even after achieving fame. Vedder has formed lasting friendships with surfing champions like Kelly Slater, Mark Richards, and Laird Hamilton.
Eddie has spent numerous seasons on the North Shore of Oahu, a prime location for the sport. Moreover, he was invited to participate in the opening ceremony of the big-wave event, In Memory of Eddie Aikau competition. Vedder once stated, ‘Surfing is as important to me as my music. I can’t imagine a life without either in it.’
4. Jason Mraz
Mraz didn’t catch the surfing bug until he was 28 years old. His passion for surfing even influences his touring schedule, as he often chooses concert locations near beaches with the best waves. Mraz, who grew up inland, compared the experience of surfing to ‘seeing a ghost or riding a dinosaur.’
3. Cameron Diaz
In 2003, Diaz suffered a broken nose while riding the waves, but this incident didn’t deter her from her love for surfing. She honed her skills by surfing with Kelly Slater and has filmed numerous movies in Hawaii, where she is well-acquainted with the local surfing spots. Diaz made her on-screen surfing debut in ‘Full Throttle,’ a sequel to ‘Charlie’s Angels,’ performing her own stunts. When she’s not surfing, Diaz can often be seen using her Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP).
2. Matthew McConaughey
McConaughey’s entry into the world of surfing was more of a professional requirement than a personal choice. He learned to surf for his role in the 2008 film ‘Surfer, Dude.’ Despite the movie’s less-than-stellar reception, McConaughey’s love for the sport has endured.
He continues to surf near his home in Malibu, California and has even appeared at a few World Championship Tour events. In an interview, McConaughey expressed his affection for the culture and the outdoorsy aspect of surfing, saying, ‘I love being out there, I love the culture, I love being outside — I just love it, man.’
1. Chris Hemsworth
Hemsworth was seen riding the waves in Byron Bay, Australia, as recently as April 30, 2019. Though the eldest Hemsworth brother is more famously known for his acting, surfing is clearly an activity he enjoys.
So, the next time you’re hitting the waves, keep your eyes peeled. You never know when you might spot a familiar face paddling out to catch the next big one.