June 01, 2022 2 min read

Rob Machado is not just one of the world’s greatest surfers; he’s one of the sport’s most recognizable characters, a living icon who continues to expand the definition of what professional surfing is all about. Known for his Zen-like flow both on land and in the water, Machado was consistently amongst the top seeded competitors while on the surfing World Tour.


Full Name: Robert Machado
Specialty: surfboard riding
Age: 48 
Current Location: Cardiff by the sea, CA
HEST Product: Dually Wide & Camp Pillow
Current Camping Rig: 1978 dodge sportsman (BEACH RIG) used for my daily trips to the beach.  Filled with boards, wetsuits, fins, wax and anything else you might need to shred.  Also has a cozy little nap spot for the after surf nap. 1972 dodge Balboa camper... for when the campgrounds are calling.  and for the extra long beach days. REI tent for when I slide out to the desert for an overnight under the stars.

Side, front or back Sleeper? Back and Side. always start on my back but find my way to my side at some point.

Any before bed rituals? Scrub the grill and drain the bladder... and make sure my feet aren't covered in sand. I hate sand in my bed.

Best dream you’ve had recently summed up in 3 words? Wish I could remember my dreams. I know i have them but they leave me as soon as I wake up.

Early bird or night owl? Early bird... hard to stay up late when you rise with the sun.

Coolest place you’ve ever woken up in? Sleeping in a tent on the island of Lombok in Indonesia. I pitched a tent on a little bamboo slated stand that kept me up off the ground. When I woke up... the waves were crashing on the shore and washing up under my tent.


Land Legs or Sea Monster? Down for both. Obviously I've grown up with sea monsters but I've been exploring the mountains lately and loving it.

Preferred method of getting your adrenaline/endorphins pumping? Early morning hikes into the unknown with my good friend Chris Benchetler. Finding lines with not a soul around. 

What is one thing you can’t camp without? A good place to sleep. So important. A cozy mattress, a good pillow, and being warm.

Dreams & goals for the next couple years? Continuing to explore the great outdoors with good friends... land legs and sea monsters both. Finding ways to disconnect in nature.