12 Most Inspiring Surf Photography Books

A guide to the best Surf Photography Books to inspire you

As the rhythmic crash of waves becomes a symphony within the pages, surf photography books emerge as a vibrant intersection of storytelling and aesthetic allure. 

In the surging wave of coffee table books and adventure books, the tide has carried forth a captivating trend – surf culture intertwines with the refined charm of coffee table aesthetics. 

These books, adorned with the artistry of surf photography, invite readers to ride the cultural wave and savor coastal life. 

This growing genre promises a collection of visuals and a narrative journey that immerses readers in the unique blend of surfing passion and the appeal of coffee table elegance.

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Top Surf Photography Books

1. Leroy Grannis: Surf Photography of the 1960s and 1970s

Leafing through the pages of “Leroy Grannis: Surf Photography of the 1960s and 1970s,” I am transported back to a golden era of surf culture. 

It’s undeniable that this publication deserves a place among the best surf photography books on any enthusiast’s shelf. 

The vibrancy and motion captured in each photo tell tales of the ocean without the need for words, from the serene satisfaction of conquering San Onofre’s waves to the heart-stopping tumbles at the tumultuous North Shore. 

Grannis’ innovation shines, particularly in his self-made waterproof housing, which brings his audience a breath away from the surging swell. 

If your soul sings to the rhythm of the waves, this book is an absolute must-have – a perfect homage to surfing’s spirited heyday, plus one of the best cheap coffee table books to have. 

2. Clark Little: The Art of Waves

Getting lost in “Clark Little: The Art of Waves” gave me a more engaging experience than just turning pages of amazing surfing pictures. 

Little’s genius explodes on each page as he captures the raw essence of the sea—it’s like I could almost taste the salt in the air. 

Devouring vibrant essays from Jamie Brisick and absorbing insights into Little’s death-defying photographic escapades was as exhilarating as any adventure. 

Having the legendary Kelly Slater introduce the book and reading Little’s afterword on his technique provided a profound appreciation for the art and sport of wave riding. 

When you close this book, you’ll admire the stunning marine life and breakers of Hawaii and the daring spirit of a truly remarkable photographer.

3. Surf Porn: Surf Photography’s Finest Selection

“Surf Porn” has easily landed on my list of best surfing photography books with its breathtaking showcase of the ocean’s untamed beauty. 

Every turn of the page bathes you in the perfect light that the photographers have painstakingly waited for, capturing moments that reveal why surfing is addictive. 

This book isn’t just a collection of images; it’s an odyssey through the world’s most elusive surf spots, each photograph telling a story of anticipation, exhilaration, and pure bliss. 

It reminds vividly of the symbiotic relationship between the surfer and the sea—an intoxicating dance of joy and adrenaline. 

Holding “Surf Porn” in your hands, you can almost taste the salty air and feel the rush; it’s an absolute gem for enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the surf culture from the comfort of their coffee table.

4. Jeff Divine: 70s Surf Photographs

The vibrant pages of Jeff Divine’s “70s Surf Photographs,” transport you instantly to the sun-drenched days when surfing was not just a sport but a cultural phenomenon. 

Ranked among the best photography coffee table books in my collection, each snapshot is a portal into the daredevil spirit and camaraderie of a bygone era, capturing stunning athletic prowess against an almost mystical ocean backdrop. 

Beyond the waves, these images tell lesser-known stories, like covert ventures of smuggling hash inside hollow surfboards—a testament to the era’s wild and unrestrained character. 

Divine’s lens offers more than nostalgia; it’s an invitation to witness the soul of the ’70s surf scene, framed masterfully by someone who was not just an observer but also a vibrant participant in that world. 

To all enthusiasts, the 70s Surf Photographs is a sublime addition to your library and a visual feast that pays homage to the legends of the surf.

3. Surf Tribe

I never knew the depth of surf culture until I turned the pages of Stephan Vanfleteren’s ‘Surf Tribe.’ 

Each photograph in this outstanding black and white coffee table book tells a story deeper than the oceans these surf icons conquer. 

It’s a worldwide odyssey that steps beyond the usual scenes of the United States and Australia, uncovering the souls living for the sea and land meet. 

Vanfleteren captures the essence of surf life, from young prodigies to venerable legends, with portraits that are as evocative as they are tranquil. 

‘Surf Tribe‘ transcends simple imagery to reveal the surfing world’s serene, almost spiritual, depths—a genuinely mesmerizing visual feast.

4. Surf Like a Girl

“Surf Like a Girl” isn’t just another entry on the shelf of surf coffee table books; it’s a triumphant declaration that the ocean’s waves welcome all. 

Carolina Amell has beautifully woven together a tapestry of stories that spotlights thirty fearless women surfers who challenge the tumultuous seas and societal norms with unmatched prowess. 

As I turned the pages, the stories of women who surf and balance careers as filmmakers, yoga instructors, and captains enthralled me. Some of them are even pregnant! 

The book’s vivid photography injects a burst of adrenaline directly into your veins, urging you to seek the thrill of riding a wave. 

It’s a spellbinding collection that’s bound to be the quintessential gift for any surf enthusiast in your life, celebrating the spirit of adventure that courses through every surfer’s veins.

5. The Surf Atlas: Iconic Waves and Surfing Hinterlands around the World

Since I turned the first page of “The Surf Atlas,” it has completely transformed my understanding and appreciation of surfing culture. 

This surf photography book isn’t just a collection of breathtaking shots; it’s an invitation to explore the rich tapestry of stories behind the world’s most iconic wave-riding destinations. 

The sheer adventure of tracing surf spots from the frigid northern lights in Iceland to the legendary waves of Mavericks makes every page a thrilling escapade. 

It’s as if I’ve trekked across the Arctic tundra and ridden alongside California’s best without leaving my coffee table. 

For anyone captivated by the unity of surf, scenery, and story, “The Surf Atlas” is a must-own masterpiece that inspires both wanderlust and waves.

6. Women Making Waves: Trailblazing Surfers In and Out of the Water

Landing the pages of “Women Making Waves” felt like a breeze of oceanic air in my living room. 

This surfing coffee table book goes beyond spectacular visuals; it weaves a rich and inspiring narrative, threading stories of incredible surfer women pulling one into the depth of their aquatic world. 

Zara Noruzi’s account is of particular awe, whose tale of finding solace amidst the waves post-exile stirred a profound respect for the sport’s emotional sanctuary. 

The interviews housed within these pages are poignant and powerful, echoing the transformational spirit of surfing. 

I’m left with an invigorated understanding of the sea’s rolling canvas and an urge to support these phenomenal water artisans.

7. Big Wave Surfer: The Greatest Rides of Our Lives

In “Big Wave Surfer: The Greatest Rides of Our Lives,” the ocean’s awe-inspiring power is captured through a lens of exhilarating audacity.

As I turn the pages of what is undoubtedly one of the top photography books I own, I’m taken to a place where people and nature’s raw, unadulterated power collide.

Personal anecdotes from surf icons like Shane Dorian, intertwined with gripping accounts of their legendary exploits, make the tales leap off the page. 

Each photograph is an adrenaline pulse, showcasing the sport’s progression and the surfers who dare to redefine limits. 

This tome is more than a book; it’s an homage to the courageous spirit of big wave surfing and one of the best nature coffee table books in my collection. 

8. Surf Shack: Laid-Back Living by the Water

I must confess, a few popular photography books capture the essence of seaside living as beautifully as ‘Surf Shack: Laid-Back Living by the Water‘. 

Leafing through its pages is like taking a tranquil trip through quaint little beach houses, each narrating the story of the soul and surf it represents. 

Nina Freudenberger has brilliantly curated a collection of homes where every nook whispers stories of the waves, and it’s refreshingly evident that surfing is more than a hobby; it’s a heartfelt lifestyle. 

Through vivid imagery and intimate narratives, I’ve discovered bungalows and trailers with as much character as their enthusiastic owners. 

For anyone seduced by the ocean’s lure or the surf culture’s lore, ‘Surf Shack’ is one of the best beach coffee table books you must have on your bookshelf. 

9. She Surf: The Rise of Female Surfing

Reviewing “She Surf: The Rise of Female Surfing,” I was captivated by how it sheds light on the untold heroines of the surf world. 

This book is a treasure among great photography books, showcasing the power and grace of female surfers with stunning visuals. 

With each turn of the page, I was introduced to the trailblazing stories from the Polynesian surfing princesses to the fearless wave riders of the ’60s. 

It’s more than just a celebration; it’s a revelation that rewrites history and honors the women making a significant impact in this traditionally male-dominated sport. 

Every reader, surfer or not, will find a deep appreciation for the spirit and resilience chronicled within this remarkable book.

10. AFROSURF

Opening the pages of AFROSURF by Mami Wata is like catching an exhilarating wave into the vibrant heart of Africa’s surf scene. 

This standout among surf photography books is a treasure trove of visual pleasure and cultural insight, revealing a side of surfing far from the mainstream view. 

Through over fifty compelling essays, profiles, and a kaleidoscope of visuals, it captures the spirit and dynamism of African surf culture with authenticity and flair. 

It’s more than just a book; it’s a movement championing local economies and sustainable surf tourism with every story it tells. 

I’m awed by the depth and design of AFROSURF, a must-have for enthusiasts and a beacon of inspiration for the eco-conscious traveler.

My conclusion on the best surf photography books

Embracing the world of surf coffee table books has been a sensory delight, with the pages resonating with the rhythmic pulse of the waves and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. 

Surf photography books, with their captivating visuals and compelling narratives, offer a unique and immersive experience, transporting readers to the sun-kissed shores and salty air of coastal paradises. 

The appeal lies not only in the stunning images that capture the essence of surfing but also in the storytelling that weaves together the cultural tapestry of these coastal communities. 

As someone who cherishes the blend of surf culture and the ritual of savoring a good cup of coffee, I enthusiastically encourage fellow enthusiasts to embark on this exploration. 

Dive into the rich narratives, savor the exquisite visuals, and let surf coffee table books become the portal to a world where every page celebrates the deep connection between surf, coffee, and the boundless spirit of the sea.

FAQ about the best surf photography books

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀