Our Story

Aprés-water Lifestyle, Family, Legacy

‘Born in Malibu, Loved around the world’

OUR ORIGINS

The Surfmonk story began in 1960s Malibu, when a brother-sister team created the original surf changing robe. Designed out of necessity and love for the water, it was made for those post-surf moments — for changing out of a cold wetsuit or bathing suit, staying warm and covered, and allowing you to linger a little longer at the beach

Decades later in 2017 another brother-sister team, Rob Murray and Jill Murray North, proudly carried that torch forward, blending the timeless design with a modern sense of sustainability and care.

OUR PURPOSE

At Surfmonk- we believe in more than just a clothing brand- we believe in the importance of connection and the deep healing power of the ocean. 

Our guiding truth is simple yet profound:

“ We are all Islands- Oceans Connect Us

To us, this means that each of us walks our own path, though separated by geography, experience or circumstance- we are all joined as one by something greater. The ocean reminds us that we are all connected  and you are never truly alone.

From Malibu to Norway, Scotland to Australia, we are honored to wrap you in warmth after every wave or any of your water adventures. Our mission goes beyond creating eco-friendly apparel, it’s about nurturing the well being of our global community and protecting the oceans that unite us.  We are deeply committed to supporting mental health awareness and programs that offer hope, healing and help to those in need.  In honor of our roots and our love of the ocean, we also pledge a portion of our proceeds to organizations dedicated to protecting our planet and its people,- including Sea Shephard, Surfrider Foundation and trusted mental health initiatives around the world.  Through these commitments we hope to be more than a brand.  We are here to support the community with care and compassion.

A Message from Jill

LEGACY of LOVE

Surfmonk was more than a business, it was a bond between my brother and I. When Rob passed away in 2022, my heart broke and I chose to close the doors. It was through my son’s encouragement and support that I found the resolve to reopen Surfmonk- not just as a company now but as a tribute to my brother and our shared dream. What began as something I built with my brother is now something I carry for him- alongside my son, in hopes we can support all who are looking to find peace, strength and community no matter where you are. 

In Love,  

Jill North

A Message from Jarrett 

I grew up on Kanan road right in the heart of the Malibu Mountains. I had the privilege of growing up by the beach and being part of the Malibu community. My favorite days we’re getting up at the crack of dawn and grabbing a Lily’s breakfast burrito and going down to the beach to chase waves until I couldn’t feel my ears. The person who taught me to love these days was my Uncle Rob. He captained this Surfmonk journey until God brought him back home. After three years of keeping Surfmonk closed I decided to bring this beautifully designed brand back to life with my mom. Not only do I love my community and know that these changing robes could have a positive impact on it, but I feel like I am in the position to live on my Uncle's dream of creating something people would love. So here we are now, and I hope every person that gets to experience putting on a Surfmonk can feel the warmth and love as I felt being with my loved ones in the place I call home. 

Sincerely yours, 

Jarrett North