There are two types of people in this world. Those who thrive on the thrill of finding the ultimate gift and those who freeze at the thought of buying for someone who already has everything.
At Xanadu, we get it. Surfers can be the hardest crew to shop for. We’re minimalists at heart who like to live lightly. And as long as we have a board, fins, wax and a decent forecast, we’re pretty much set.
That said, it’s nice to spoil the ones we love. So we’ve scoured the market for the best surf accessories, apparel and experiences that go beyond the basics. From practical gear to soulful keepsakes.
Whether it’s a Christmas present, a birthday surprise or just a thoughtful “you deserve it”, here are the ultimate gifts for surfers that they’ll actually use and love.
Surf Wax Saver
Sticky and sandy wax blocks rolling around your car? Not anymore. The Surf Wax Saver keeps your wax clean, organised and ready to grab before you hit the beach.
Made from heat-resistant silicone, it keeps dirt, sand and water out. No leaks, no mess. It even lets you recycle wax scraps into a new bar. It’s a small surf accessory with big energy. Clean, clever and eco-friendly.
Solite 2mm Reef Boots
For surfers who need to reach waves over sharp reef, the Solite 2mm Reef Boots are built for protection and barefoot performance.
The ballistic rubber sole shields against coral and urchins while maintaining a soft flexible feel underfoot.
A must-have surf accessory for the man or woman who won’t ditch a session no matter what’s under the surface. Did we mention they can be moulded to your feet too? Because why not!
Surf Shacks: An Eclectic Compilation of Surfers’ Homes
Surf Shacks by Indoek is more than a book. It’s an invitation into the homes and creative spaces of surfers worldwide.
From tiny beach cabins to surf-inspired city lofts, it shows how surf culture extends beyond the water and onto land.
A perfect gift for design lovers who want their coffee table to smell faintly of salt and wax. Or just those who dream of having their own surf shack. We can all dream, right?
Surf travel insurance by Nomad
Not the flashiest of surf accessories or gifts, but definitely one of the smartest. Surf travel insurance from Nomad protects your gear, your trip and your peace of mind.
From lost leashes and broken fins to surprise hospital visits or blocked flights, this is the kind of reliable backup every travelling surfer needs.
It may not seem so thoughtful on the surface, but we guarantee your mate or loved one will thank you when they actually need to use it.
Surfline Premium subscription
Forecast junkies, rejoice. A Surfline Premium subscription gives real-time cams, tide charts, wind data and advanced forecasts.
It’s basically the key to never missing the best waves. And it’s perfect for those (like us) who spend 20-50% of their day scoping out next week’s forecast. A digital gift that’s as practical as it gets.
Slowtide travel towel
Soft, compact and quick-drying. The Slowtide travel towel is one of those surf accessories that instantly upgrades any beach mission.
Made from recycled materials, they’re lightweight, versatile and dry faster than your wetsuit in the sun on a warm, windy day.
These things take up minimal space in your luggage too. Not to mention they’re super stylish and available in a wide range of colours, patterns and sizes.
Octopus LOAC 2.0 dry bag (32 L)
Between sandy wetsuits and dripping leashes, your car deserves protection too. The Octopus LOAC 2.0 dry bag is big enough for all your surf gear (suits, tees, caps, fins and more), keeping everything sealed and dry.
Built tough but with a sleek minimalist design, it’s a surf essential for the organised kind of surfer or the one who needs help pretending.
We love this one from Octopus but there are heaps of other dry bag brands out there with varying price points. Check ’em out!
Indo Board balance trainer
When the ocean’s flat, bring the stoke inland. The Indo Board helps improve balance, strength and control… all while making dry land feel a little more like a rolling wave.
It’s the perfect training tool to stand tall and stay sharp when there’s nothing to ride. We have one on the Xanadu premises and we can tell you it gets plenty of usage.
If you’re serious about becoming a better surfer in a shorter amount of time, we can’t recommend one of these highly enough.
Surfboard wax (Fu Wax, Mr. Zoggs or Huey’s Choice)
Surfboard wax is to surfers what chalk is to climbers. It’s how we connect to our chosen medium and as such, it’s one of the fundamental bits of kit that every surfer needs.
Top brands like Fu Wax, Mr. Zoggs and Huey’s Choice deliver grip, traction and that signature surf smell that fills every car and board bag. Small, simple and always the perfect stocking filler. The best part is that your friend or loved one will stop borrowing yours!
Kaiola surf hat
For endless tropical sessions, the Kaiola surf hat is an absolute lifesaver. Literally.
Lightweight, secure straps and quick-drying fabric, this thing stays put through duck dives, wind and waves. It’s sun protection with style and an essential beach accessory for serious water time. If you have sensitive skin or you’re simply craving an extra layer of security in tropical conditions, these hats are the way to go.
Lore of the Sea swimsuit
The Lore of the Sea swimsuit isn’t just beautiful… it’s built for movement.
Made from recycled materials, these designs balance comfort, elegance and performance. Ideal for long sessions under the sun or spontaneous jumps from the surfboard to the sand. Sustainability has never looked so good.
Bonus points because founder Laure Mayer is a friend and past host of a Xanadu longboarding retreat. Learn more about Laure and check out her range of eco-friendly swimwear today.
Shop Lore of the Sea swimwear.
Florence Marine X long-sleeve hooded rashguard
These things are legit when it comes to keeping the sun off your upper body, head and neck. The Florence Marine X hooded rashguard offers reliable warmth and UV protection so you can surf longer and safer.
Designed by John John Florence, it’s the kind of gear you choose when comfort and performance matter.
Quick-drying, soft and built for Lombok days, this is pro-level surf armour that any man in your life will be stoked with.
Aiguadolç reef-safe sunscreen
Long days in the water call for sunscreen that doesn’t mess with your skin or the sea. Aigua Dolç delivers premium reef-safe SPF 50+ sun care designed by surfers for surfers.
No toxic chemicals, no white streaks. Just clean, reliable protection that stays put through sweat, salt and surf. Protect your skin and protect the ocean? That’s what we call a win-win.
The Salty Club membership
The Salty Club is a brilliant resource for any surfer who wants to feel stronger and more confident in their body.
The workouts are dynamic and the mobility sessions keep you loose and ready for longer days in the waves. There’s breathwork too.
It’s one of those subscriptions that slots quietly into your life and then suddenly you can’t imagine surfing without it.
September the Line one-piece swimwear
After swimwear that feels effortless? September the Line has you covered (literally). The fabrics are soft. The cuts are clean.
Everything is made to move with you, whether you’re paddling out or drying off on warm sand after a long session.
Take it from us. It’s a winning gift for the woman who spends half her life in saltwater.
We Are Feel Good Inc. sunscreen
We Are Feel Good Inc. creates sunscreen that surfers actually enjoy using. It absorbs fast and feels light on the skin.
No greasy finish and no heavy chemical smell. Phew! It’s one of those simple gifts that’s always appreciated… because everyone needs good sunscreen.
Nine-Nine workshop
Skip the gadgets and give an experience instead. A Nine-Nine Workshop in Lombok blends surf culture with local flavour through its Coco Sambal and Coffee Workshop.
It’s the perfect way to add depth to any surf trip. Learning, tasting and creating something hands-on with a local organisation that puts women in the spotlight.
Even better, book a stay at Xanadu where this workshop is included in our programme. Good waves, great food and total immersion. That’s the Xanadu recipe for success.
Flight vouchers
When you’re out of ideas, there’s one surf accessory that always fits: a plane ticket.
Flight vouchers are the ultimate surf gift. Cash towards the next adventure. Whether it’s Bali, Portugal or the Maldives, it’s freedom wrapped in digital form. Again, not the most thoughtful of gifts, but nobody will complain when they’re jet-setting to Lombok for an all-inclusive surf and yoga retreat.
Simply Google an airline that flies from your location and search “flight vouchers” to get your hands on one.
Bonus pick #1: Hydro Flask water bottle
Simple, sturdy and surprisingly essential. A Hydro Flask keeps water cold or coffee hot for hours.
Whether it’s rolling around the car, clipped to your surf bag or standing by your board on the sand, it’s one of those small gifts that earns daily use.
You’ll notice we only use recyclable products in Xanadu. But we love to see guests bring their own beverage carriers and water bottles too.
Bonus pick #2: SurfEars earplugs
Surfers know the struggle of blocked ears. SurfEars are designed to protect your hearing without shutting out sound.
They keep water, wind and sand at bay. And they’re suitable for any true-blooded who wants to shred longer and avoid the dreaded surfer’s ear.
Check out their range and find a model that fits you or your loved one. They’ll thank you in the long run!
Bonus pick #3: Surf Companions book
Surf Companions is perfect for surfers who want to understand technique in a clearer way.
The handy little book breaks down body mechanics and movement patterns into simple visuals that you can apply in the water.
It’s practical and surprisingly fun. And it’s an easy little gift to grab when you want something useful without overthinking it.
FAQs: Tips for choosing the ultimate surf gift
Q. What are the best surf accessories for travel?
A dry bag, travel towel, leash straps and a Hydro Flask are must-haves. They keep your gear clean, you hydrated and your kit organised wherever you go.
Q. What’s the perfect gift for a surfer who has everything?
Think experiences! A Nine-Nine Workshop, flight vouchers or a Xanadu surf retreat. These add memories, not clutter.
Q. How can I keep sand out of my car after surfing?
A rubber mat or waterproof changing bag works wonders. Ditch the plastic bags and grab a purpose-built surf mat to change cleanly and save your car.
Q. What surf accessories help with comfort and warmth?
Reef boots, hooded rashguards and quality wetsuit repairs all help keep you warm and comfortable… no matter the water temperature. Of course, you could just book a trip to Indonesia. No fear of catching a cold here!
Q. What are some small but versatile surf gifts under €50?
Wax, caps, tees, leashes, sunscreen and SurfEars are affordable and practical. They’re small enough to slip into a stocking but cool enough to make a big difference.
Q. Can surf gifts be non-surfing items?
Absolutely. Think jumpers, caps or even cash for surfboard repairs … practical gifts that still fit the lifestyle.
Q. Where can I shop for surf gifts?
You can shop trusted surf brands directly or explore curated experiences like those offered at Xanadu.
Gifting for surfers. Made easy
From wax and wetsuits to workshops and wellness, the surf world is full of clever, meaningful ways to give. These surf accessories and experiences prove that the perfect gift doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to show you care about their time in and around the water.
If you’re ready to give something unforgettable, you could also book a stay at Xanadu! That’s the kind of present that blends waves, warmth and wellbeing in one beautiful package. And who knows? That special person in your life might want to take you along too.
