Gifts for the one who’s always in the water

Gear and gift guide · For the surfer

Gear that survives salt, sand and a wet car seat, sorted by budget.

[15] picks · [5] min read

[Two-sentence intro: who this is for and what makes a good gift for them.]

We earn a small commission if you buy through our links. It never changes what we recommend.

Kit at a glance

Best for

[Surfers, swimmers, beach people]

Price range

$[10] to $[400]

If you buy one thing

[The changing poncho]

Under $50 · $50 to $150 · The splurge

Our top three

Top pick

[Hooded changing poncho]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[000] · Check price

We pack this

[Dry bag]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

Splurge

[Action camera]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[000] · Check price

Quick compare

Pick	Best for	Packs to	Price
[Changing poncho]	[Cold-water mornings]	[Size]	$[000]
[Dry bag]	[Boat days, paddling]	[Size]	$[00]
[Action camera]	[Filming the session]	[Size]	$[000]

Under $50

Stocking stuffers that get used

[Mineral sunscreen stick]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

[Surf wax and comb]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

[Quick-dry towel]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

[Waterproof phone pouch]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

$50 to $150

The sweet spot

[Insulated bottle]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

[Quick-dry shorts]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

[Packable blanket]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

[Soft cooler]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[00] · Check price

The splurge

Worth it if they'll use it weekly

[Wetsuit]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[000] · Check price

[Soft-top board]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[000] · Check price

[Waterproof watch]

[Why it's the one to get, in one line.]

$[000] · Check price

How we pick: [one line on testing, what you look for, and that you never take paid placements.] More on how we pick

Rather give a day than a thing?

Surf lessons, sunset sails and food tours they'll remember longer than anything wrapped.

See the experiences guide