Who Is Sunny Garcia? Age, Biography and Wiki
Sunny Garcia, born on January 14, 1970, is an acclaimed American surfer renowned for his competitive prowess and charismatic personality. As of 2025, Sunny turns 55 years old and remains a celebrated figure in the surf world. Over the years, he has not only made waves on the water but has also become an inspiration for aspiring surfers globally. Known for his charismatic style and dedication to the sport, Garcia has built a legacy that extends beyond surfing.
| Occupation | Sports |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 14, 1970 |
| Age | 55 Years |
| Birth Place | Mā'ili, Oahu, Hawai'i |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country |
Popularity
Sunny Garcia's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Sunny Garcia stands at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm) and maintains a well-toned physique that reflects his active lifestyle. Though specific weight details aren't usually disclosed, he is estimated to weigh around 190 lbs (86 kg). His athletic build is indicative of years spent mastering his craft in the ocean, contributing to his competitive edge.
Then, four years later, inspired by veteran Mark Occhilupo's shock 1999 WCT title, Garcia shed weight and moved to Kauai. There he surfed with the progressive Irons brothers, Andy and Bruce, expanding his surfing repertoire.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Sunny Garcia's family background is rooted in a strong support system that has influenced his journey in the surfing world. Regarding his relationship status, as of 2025, he is reportedly single. However, he has had notable relationships in the past that have often caught media attention. His personal life has been the subject of curiosity, but Sunny tends to keep details under wraps, focusing instead on his career and surfing passions.
Garcia is of Puerto Rican and Hawaiian heritage from his father's side and Hawaiian, Chinese, Filipino, Irish, and Native American heritage from his mother's side. His nickname "Sunny" was given to him by his mother, due to his cheerful disposition as an infant. Following his parents' divorce, Garcia lived with his mother near Mā'ili point, close to the beach.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Sunny Garcia's net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. His earnings come from various sources, including competition prizes, sponsorships, and merchandise. His long-standing association with major brands has significantly contributed to his wealth. In recent years, Garcia has also ventured into business endeavors, further boosting his financial standing.
In October 2006, Garcia was sentenced to federal prison for tax fraud after failing to pay taxes on unreported contest winnings from 1996 to 2001.
Garcia failed to report over $471,000 in prize money on his tax returns for those years, resulting in a three-month sentence, beginning January 12, 2007, plus a further 7 months of house arrest and 80 hours community service with Goodwill.
"I spent my money foolishly and didn't handle my affairs," he said outside the San Diego federal courtroom where he was sentenced.
Career, Business and Investments
Sunny Garcia’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. He rose to fame in the surfing world during the 1990s, clinching several prestigious titles and earning a reputation as one of the top surfers globally. Aside from competitive surfing, Sunny has dabbled in various business ventures, including surfing gear design and sports promotions. His keen interest in investment has also seen him explore opportunities in the real estate sector, showcasing his adaptability beyond the waves.
Garcia was a dominant force in the Hawaiian Surfing Association starting as a 17-year-old on the 1986 WCT, beating former champion Tom Carroll and threatening to cause an upset to the top 16. Despite this early promise he just failed to break into this elite group in his debut season. The following year he finished in 16th position.
Social Network
Sunny Garcia is active on several social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter, where he shares snippets of his life, surfing expeditions, and insights into the sport. His engaging posts resonate with fans and fellow surfers alike, making him a relatable and cherished figure in the surfing community. Additionally, his advocacy for mental health awareness has garnered significant attention, inspiring many to focus on well-being.
Witnesses allege Garcia went after the cameraman, knocking him to the ground and inflicting deep grazes to his back and arms with one of the man's hands receiving injuries.
The cameraman told police he wanted to drop his complaint after receiving threats from locals and Garcia's overseas supporters warning of retribution and sought to lie low in his native Brazil until the surf rage furor died down.
The cameraman was quoted as saying, "I'm too scared to press charges...Garcia could go to jail and then people would want to get me. At the moment I just don't feel safe...I've had threats on the internet I don't know how I'd protect myself and my family if something happened".
Garcia sought legal advice from high-profile Gold Coast lawyer Chris Nyst. On 3 May 2011, Queensland Police Service confirmed an arrest warrant has been issued for a 41-year-old man on a charge of common assault, the reporting newspaper linked the warrant to Garcia.
On 4 May 2011, Garcia's lawyer, Chris Nyst, confirmed the arrest warrant for Garcia, that it involves the young surfer who was allegedly assaulted, advised continued co-operation from Garcia with police and is confident his client would be exonerated.
Education
While specific details regarding Sunny Garcia's formal education are scarce, it is well-known that he grew up in Hawaii, which played a pivotal role in shaping his surfing skills. The culture and environment fostered his passion and commitment to the sport, laying a strong foundation for his successful career.
Vincent Sennen "Sunny" Garcia (born January 14, 1970) is an American professional surfer from Waianae, Hawaii. After leaving school he debuted on the 1986 Gotcha Pro at Sandy Beach, Oahu, beating the 1984 champ Tom Carroll.
