Before hitting the waves, your pre-surf snack can make all the difference in improving your performance because the last thing you want on your mind while paddling out is a grumbling stomach. While a banana or bagel is always an easy option, opting for foods rich in protein, with a healthy source of fat and a hint of the right carbs, is crucial for maintaining stamina, keeping you full and feeling energized for hours. Plant-based options, filled with macronutrients, are also incredibly helpful to avoid feeling sluggish and can even improve your recovery.

With these factors in mind, we’ve curated a list of our top five nutrient-dense snack choices, from brands that use premium ingredients. Not only are they guilt-free, they are light, tasty, and designed to keep you powered up. Keep them in a cooler for a refreshing pick-me-up (or stored in your beach tote), either way they are filling, healthy, and will fuel you up to crush some waves.

1. LAIRD SUPERFOOD PICKY BARS 

Founded by big-wave surfer Laird Hamilton, this brand is filled with nourishing, plant-based options that are Hamilton’s go-to for enabling him to perform at the highest level. Starting your day with this delicious gluten and soy-free bar, before hitting the surf, is a great option. It blends the taste of hazelnuts, chocolate and Portland’s Stumptown Coffee to make a lightly caffeinated bar that will energize you before a long day on the water.

2. THRIVE MARKET ORGANIC COCONUT CHIPS

If you’re craving the crunchy satisfaction of chips, without the high sodium or heavy oil, these roasted coconut chips are a healthy substitute that are rich in fats, micronutrients, and vitamins. Made from ethically sourced Sri Lankan coconuts, the chips are slowly toasted for four hours to bring out a sweet-yet-savory flavor.

3. SHAR IMPOSSIBLY GOOD TRAIL MIX TUBES

Packed with 9 nutrient-packed, organic ingredients sourced from local farmers, this trail mix is gluten-free and vegan. As a bonus the brand uses eco-friendly plastic-free pouches or refillable on-the-go tubes which are recyclable, biodegradable, and reusable for up to one year.

4. JUSTIN'S HONEY ALMOND PROTEIN BAR

Whether you keep these chilled in a cooler or eat them at room temperature, these bars are packed with 10 grams of plant-based protein, so you’re guaranteed a burst of energy. Not to mention, it comes in three flavors (Almond Butter, Dark Chocolate Chip, and Honey) that are so yummy, you’ll feel like you’re eating dessert.

5. BADA BEAN BADA BOOM CRUNCHY BROAD BEANS 

Roasted beans may not be the most obvious choice for a beach snack but as a low-calorie superfood, they are packed with protein, fiber and healthy fats so you can overcome any midday fatigue. They are also seasoned to perfection, with a touch of sunflower oil, for bold flavor and a solid crunch.