All Aboard with Pro Surfer Eden Edwards
Eden Edwards and I first met while volunteering together for AWOW in Montauk. She came with her boyfriend (who just so happens to be New York pro surfer Balaram Stack), and it was clear she was someone special. Full of warmth, energy, and a deep connection to the ocean, Eden’s presence was contagious. Originally from Santa Cruz, California, Eden grew up immersed in surf culture, following closely in the footsteps of her older sister, who was already sponsored and competing across California.
For the Edwards family, surfing wasn’t a hobby, it was a way of life. With a natural passion for the water and a drive to carve her own path, Eden has built a career as a professional surfer, traveling the world, creating inspiring content, and staying grounded through her deep love for the ocean. What we also love about her is that, despite her busy schedule, she made earning her degree at UCSD a priority, and is so glad she did. Now, with her degree under her belt, she’s focused on chasing barrels in Fiji, exploring new cultures on the road, and soaking in the energy of New York City.
We sat down with Eden to tap into her brain where adrenaline meets zen vibes.
Can you tell us about your life thus far, how did you get into pro surfing?
I grew up in a family of surfers in Santa Cruz California. My older sister was 8 years ahead of me and was already sponsored by Roxy and competing in contests across California by the time I was born. I grew up in the water and attending these contests, all the while dreaming of my turn one day.
My parents did everything they could to take us on surf trips every year and share their passion for the ocean with us.
As a teenager I began to compete the way my sister did, I got my first sponsor O’Neill surf shop and was over the moon. This eventually led to my main sponsor currently O’Neill women’s.
Unlike many surfers who are constantly having to travel to remain competitive, you made sure you finished college. Tell us about why that was so important to you and what you studied?
I made the choice to attend college instead of competing because it was important to me and my parents that I had an education. I also loved school and writing!
It just so happened that COVID took over mid-way through and made everything go online. This was a blessing in disguise because once the borders reopened, I had the opportunity to travel while doing school. It basically kicked off my career as a free surfer because I was able to capture surf travel content that my sponsors became super interested in! My senior year I was in a different country every month and still graduated with straight As and a BS in Sociology with a minor in Spanish.
You are always on the go! How do you maintain your mental and physical health when traveling?
It’s really important for me to prioritize healthy foods and sleep to make the amount of travel I do sustainable. Making sure to get in lots of protein and vegetables while also finding time for rest.
Being in the ocean is my greatest tool for a strong mind, it’s where I feel grounded and whole.
What are some things you are most excited about for yourself?
Within the last couple years, I began pushing myself to go bigger and discovered my passion for barrel riding. I can’t name a better feeling. I’m so excited for where this new venture will take me and the waves I haven’t surfed yet.
What is your favorite surf spot ;)
My first answer would be Steamers Lane in Santa Cruz because it’s my home break. However, Cloudbreak in Fiji has made a huge impact on my life as well.
If you weren’t surfing, what would we find you doing?
I love nature in all its forms. I’m on the road a lot, therefore I love exploring different regions and cultures. I feel super blessed to get the opportunity to see such amazing biodiversity on the road.
When I’m at home however, I love to dress up and hang out with my girlfriends. I definitely have a feline side that loves fashion and the city.
You’re in New York a lot, which we love. What are some of your favorite places to go out, eat, and see?
My favorite thing about New York is actually the insane amount of different experiences every time I go. Although I do have some favorites, such as Omakase at 7 and water or walking on the West Side highway. It really does seem that almost every time I go into the city there is something new I get after.
