Community Connect: Chennai's growing surfing community making waves the responsible way!

At sunrise, while most of the city is still rubbing sleep from its eyes, a spirited group of wave-chasers are already balancing on boards, cutting through the surf at Kovalam and Mahabalipuram beaches with effortless grace. Once considered an offbeat, exotic hobby, surfing has now grown into a movement with Kovalam and Mahabalipuram emerging as the beating heart of Chennai’s surf culture.
‘WITH SURFING ADDED TO THE OLYMPICS, MORE PEOPLE ARE SHOWING INTEREST’
“When we first started our surfing community, we had over 30 participants. Over time, the numbers dropped, possibly because of low awareness and the high cost of surfboards — the basic board costs around ₹30,000. But now, the surfing scene in Chennai is growing again. With surfing added to the Olympics, more people are showing interest in learning the sport,” says Nithish Varun, a surfing coach, who began his journey in 2010.
‘The surfing community has been steadily growing in the city’
“The Chennai surfing community has been steadily growing, and not just with seasoned surfers. Students, working professionals, artists, and even retirees have joined the tribe, drawn by the unique mix of adrenaline, calmness, and community the sport offers,” states Megha, a psychologist.

Of beach clean-up, ocean safety & surfing etiquette
“The surfing community has also taken up informal responsibilities, like keeping the beach clean, introducing newcomers to surfing etiquette, and even running workshops on ocean safety,” says Ankita, a therapist. Shanmuga Sundaram, a cinematographer, concurs. “The community spirit is real. We learn from each other — not just surfing techniques, but life philosophies. Someone once told me, ‘Never fight the wave, flow with it’. I now applied this to everything I do,” he states.
‘More women are taking up surfing now’
About five years ago, 95% of surfers here were foreigners, and only 5% were Indians. Now, it’s the other way around, shares Nithish. He elaborates, “After the pandemic, more locals started coming on weekends to practice. Mahabalipuram is one of the best surfing spots in India, with good waves and tides, which is why many national and international surfing events are held here. Our community is open to everyone — people often come during weekends to learn. Kids above six years old can join, too, as they pick it up quickly. We’ve built a supportive and friendly environment where we not only grow in surfing but also help each other in life. More women are joining now, too; this is a safe and fun space for all.”
‘Unlike Marina or Besant Nagar, Kovalam offers safer, surfable conditions’
“Kovalam beach, which is 40km south of Chennai, has a unique geography. The reef break near the shore creates consistent, clean waves ideal for beginners and pros alike. Unlike Marina or Besant Nagar, which have rougher waters and unpredictable tides, Kovalam offers safer, surfable conditions almost year-round. Kovalam is like our gurukul. It’s where you learn, fall, rise, and repeat — with your tribe beside you,” shares Rohit, social media manager at an IT company.