The surfing world continues to honor the legacy of Greg Noll, 84, the legendary big-wave surfer known as “Da Bull,” who passed away from natural causes on Monday, June 28, 2021, in Crescent City, California. Recent online reports incorrectly linking him to a 2026 death notice appear to have resulted from automated content errors or inaccurate location searches.
Born Greg Lawhead on February 11, 1937, in San Diego, California, Noll grew up in Manhattan Beach, where he developed his passion for surfing, shaping surfboards, and pushing the limits of ocean riding. During the 1950s and 1960s, he became one of the pioneers of Hawaiian big-wave surfing, helping define an era of fearless wave riding.
Known for his powerful style, muscular build, and iconic black-and-white striped board shorts, Noll earned worldwide recognition for charging massive waves at locations such as Waimea Bay and Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore. His legendary 1969 ride at Makaha during a massive swell was widely regarded as one of the greatest big-wave achievements of its time and marked the end of his competitive heavy-surf career.
After stepping away from major wave riding, Greg continued contributing to the surfing community as a surfboard shaper, fisherman, mentor, and storyteller. He was inducted into the Surfing Walk of Fame in 1996 and remained an influential figure alongside his son, surfboard shaper Jed Noll.
Greg Noll is survived by his wife, Laura; daughter Ashlyne; sons Jed, Tate, and Rhyn; and several grandchildren. His impact on surfing history, craftsmanship, and the generations of surfers he inspired will continue to be celebrated for years to come.