Pepe Gomez
Big Wave Surfer | Community Farmer
A boy from the countryside in Dolores, Uruguay rides the biggest waves in the world. And he wants more.
We wanted to find out more about Pepe’s story, his connecting with the community, his passion for surfing big waves and his dream of performing at the world’s biggest surf break.
From the vast fields of Dolores, Uruguay to the towering waves of Nazaré, Portugal, Pepe Gomez embodies the Luminox spirit of resilience, determination, and purpose. A professional big wave surfer and devoted agriculturalist, Pepe’s life is a balance of chasing some of the world's biggest waves and giving back to the community that raised him.
Pepe first touched a surfboard at the age of 20—far later than most in his sport. Ten years later, he’s ridden waves as tall as 25 meters, competed in international big wave competitions, and become a jet ski pilot and rescuer for other surfers. But his roots run just as deep in the soil of his hometown, where he works on his family’s land to help feed his community and sustain local livelihoods.
Overcoming the Impossible
Pepe’s journey is a testament to unwavering belief. Growing up in the countryside with no access to the ocean or surfing tradition, he was told his dream of becoming a big wave surfer was impossible. But he never let the odds define him. He juggled farm work to self-fund his global surfing travels—board by board, wave by wave.
“Everyone said I needed to be born in the water, have generations of surfers behind me. I had none of that. But I had the dream. And that was enough.”
2 years later, at 22, he first rode a 6-meter wave in Chile. That changed his life forever. Since then, he has dedicated himself to big wave surfing, intensifying his training and returning to work in the Uruguayan countryside to fund his surfing expeditions to Chile, Mexico, Brasil, Hawaii, Portugal.
Making Waves at Home
Pepe’s impact is felt far beyond the surf. His life proves that greatness can rise from the most unexpected places. By breaking barriers, he’s empowered others to believe in their own dreams, no matter how far-fetched they may seem.
“If a kid from the countryside who didn’t know how to surf can ride 30-meter waves, anyone can achieve their goals if they want it badly enough.”
Everyday Heroism
Pepe is more than an athlete—he’s a mentor and community leader. He shares his breathing and meditation techniques to help others face pressure and fear, both in and out of the water. Through his actions, he inspires others to step out of their comfort zones and chase their wildest ambitions.
“What motivates me is to live life with compassion, focus, and purpose. I want to help create a world where we share experiences, not keep them to ourselves.”
Pepe’s drive, humility, and purpose are what make him a true Luminox Everyday Hero. His story exemplifies the brand’s values: never give up, support your community, and live life with courage.
“It feels amazing that a brand like Luminox sees value in my journey. I’m excited to work together to show that with heart and focus, dreams can come true.”
Hear from Pepe himself as we caught up with him about his journey and his dream of surfing at Nazare, during our full interview with him here.
