About 52 percent of Americans opt for beach vacations. For some, it's the promise of sun and tan lines. Others love the sand and the sound of waves on the beach.

But for a lot of people, surfing holds certain awe that can't be replaced by mediocre vacations.  

And it's no surprise. There's a whole list of famous surfers who prove it's the perfect coastal activity. Even if you're only there for a short time, you still have time to learn.

Famous Surfers to Channel on the Waves

It can be daunting when you first start learning to paddle out from shore. Waves crashing on all sides can make you want to say "never mind" and head back to shore. But these tenacious surfers wouldn't want you to give up.

1. Hawaii Surfing with Duke Kahanamoku

Some Hawaii surfing can be dangerous for beginners. But Kahanamoku didn't let that stop him from becoming a world-famous surfer.

You could even call this Hawaii native one of the fathers of surfing. And California can thank him for bringing the sport to them back in the day.

2. Starting Young with Kelly Slater

If you have a young surfing hopeful, this is the role model for them.

Kelly Slater began surfing when he was only six years old. It didn't take long before he was progressing and winning championships at the tender age of 11. And only seven years later, at 18, he became a pro surfer.

So, if your little wave-rider feels discouraged about age, point them toward Slater.

3. Making Waves with Nick Gabaldon  

America before 1965 was full of restrictions against black citizens. But, through surfing, those restrictions were challenged in California.

Nick Gabaldon is one of the first "known" African-American surfers. And his dedication to surfing made others notice. A group of white surfers befriended Nick, challenging segregation at the time.

Gabaldon may not have lived long enough to see the impact he made. But Malibu remembers.

4. Girl Power with Frieda Zamba

If you think surfing is a guys-only sport, you're wrong. And Frieda Zamba proved that women are just as capable as men on surfboards.

Frieda is a Florida native who has quite the record in pro surfing. In her early days, she won several championships against both men and women, one of which was when she was only 16.

She's even featured in the Surfing Walk of Fame.

There are many great female surfers to look up to. The waves are meant for everyone.

More About Surfing Lessons

These famous surfers weren't born knowing how to ride a surfboard. They had lessons somewhere along the way, and they practiced hard. If you want to be a surfer, there's nothing holding you back from the waves.

At San Diego Surf School, you can get surfing lessons for almost anyone. Get individual lessons, or even come out as a group. We're here to get you and your friends out on the water.

Contact us for more information and to book your appointment!