Polynesians and Surfing

Surfing was also developed by the ancient Polynesians.

This early form of surfing seems to have had more in common with modern surfing than the Peruvian version, though both sports were essentially the same, with some distinctions of craft and technique.

To the Polynesians, especially those who colonized the northeastern point of the Polynesian Triangle to become the first Hawaiians, surfing was not just a sport. It was a central, deeply important aspect of their culture. Surfing was an art, and those who could do it well were made leaders of their societies. Traditionally, the chief was consider to be the best surfer (or wave rider) of his community, and was provided with the best board made from the highest quality wood available.