Surfing has always been more than just catching waves. It’s about connection, freedom and pushing limits. With the sport gaining a lot of popularity over the years, women’s interest in the sport has also significantly increased. Also, at our Surf School In Bal,i we see lots of women who want to learn how to surf.
It hasn’t always been easy for women in surfing, with some getting fewer prizes and facing tougher conditions than male competitors. But that hasn’t stopped women from making their mark in surfing. Idols like Bethany Hamilton, Carissa Moore, Caitlin Simmers, and Stephanie Gilmore have shown the world what’s possible in surfing. All these women have had a great impact on the women’s surfing industry as well as on inspiring young and upcoming female surfers. We’ll show you why!
One of the most well-known stories in the surfing community is that of Bethany Hamilton. It’s one about mental strength, pushing through and a passion for sport. When she was just 13, Bethany was surfing in Hawaii, suddenly, a shark attacked her and she lost her arm. Most people might think that this would be the end of her surfing dreams, but Bethany didn’t see it that way. She fought back, kept her love for surfing and the ocean, and continued to surf at the world’s best levels in the sport.
“Courage doesn’t mean you don’t get afraid. Courage means you don’t let fear stop you.” – Bethany Hamilton
Her story is inspiring, especially for young women and beginner surfers who want to learn how to surf. She shows us that you should never give up. That with willingness and passion, you can get through tough times and still do what you love. Bethany teaches us that failure doesn’t define who you are. She’s a strong example of how determination and love for a sport can help you overcome anything.
Carissa Moore is another professional surfer from Hawaii, She has done a lot for the well-being of women in surfing. She started surfing when she was just five years old, thanks to her dad Chris, she was hooked on surfing from then on and soon she showed her talent to the world.
Carissa became the youngest person to win a World Surfing title at the age of 18. She has since won the world championship five times. She created history again in 2020 when she became the first female Olympic gold medallist in surfing in Tokyo.
What’s really inspiring is it’s not just her wins on the water, it’s what she does off the surfboard. Carissa is a strong voice for women’s rights and equality in surfing and about mental health. She talks about fair prize money and more chances for women. In 2018, she started “Moore Aloha,” a nonprofit that encourages young girls to be confident, brave and strong through surfing.
Moore shows us all that surfing is more than just waves. Surfing is about community, it’s a way to inspire others and to stand for what is right. Her story reminds women everywhere to dream big, work hard, and stay strong.
“It’s my hope that anyone who’s young and chasing their dreams knows that anything is possible if they work hard and put their heart and mind to it.” – Carissa Moore
Caitlin grew up in California in a family that loves surfing. She started riding waves when she was just ten years old. Right from the beginning, it was clear she had something special. Her super laid-back, chill attitude and fearlessness caught the attention of others, they knew it too, she was going for big things!
She quickly made a name for herself, in 2018, she won the ISA Under-16 World Junior Championship and after that, she kept pushing herself in bigger contests. When she was only 15, in 2021, she stunned everyone by winning the US Open. This made her the second-youngest champion ever in surfing history. Then in 2023, she took home a huge win at the Pipe Pro in some wild conditions. She made it loud and clear: “Pipeline is for the f***ing girls!”
Most recently, she finished the 2024 season as the world’s top-ranked female surfer. At just 18, she made history by beating surfing legend Carissa Moore and becoming the youngest world champion in pro surfing.
Caitlin’s story shows that if you love what you do, work hard and stay dedicated, you can ride those waves and reach the top.
“I just try to have fun, surf whenever I want, and take it one day at a time, whether it’s a contest or not.” – Caitlinn Simmers
Stephanie Gilmore is an eight-time world champion and one of the most famous female surfers of all time. She’s known for her smooth surfing style, dedication and kindness. Over the years, her talent and calm confidence pushed her to be one of the all-time greats, with seven world titles under her name.
“The ocean humbles you. You can go and win a world title, but you’re never going to beat the ocean.” – Stephanie Gilmore
She made history early on, in 2007, at just 19 years old, Stephanie became the youngest surfer at that time to win a World Championship. She kept winning. Four more titles in 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011. That’s five world titles in five years! A record no other surfer has matched, male or female. Winning as a rookie and then dominating the sport for years with 8 made her a true trailblazer.
Beyond her wins, Stephanie uses her platform to inspire women and girls who love surfing. She’s fought for fair prize money and equal opportunities, motivating young women to believe in themselves and follow their dreams. In 2010, she even received the Laureus World Sports Award, recognising her as one of the top athletes in action sports.
Now, after nearly two years away from competition, Stephanie’s gearing up to return to the tour in 2026. Even at 38 years old, she’s still proving that passion and perseverance never fade. Her story reminds us that success in surfing isn’t just about titles, but about inspiring others and staying true to your dreams, no matter what obstacles come your way.
4 Women in Surfing with 4 impressive stories that inspire a sport like nobody else. These women have broken barriers and achieved incredible things, inspiring surfers everywhere.
If you’re a beginner looking to learn how to surf, you’re in the right place. Everyone has to start somewhere, and there’s no better place to begin than with us at Surf School in Bali. We may not make you a world champion overnight, but we’ll give you the tools to catch your first waves, build confidence in the water, and progress at your own pace. From learning how to paddle out, pop up, understanding ocean safety and improving your fitness for surfing, we’ve got you covered. So what are you waiting for, book your surfing adventure with us today!
