Surfing a wave of economic growth

We investigate whether the geographic determinants of growth extend to natural
amenities. We combine data on spatial and temporal variation in the quality of over 5000
surf breaks globally with data on local economic performance, proxied by night-time
lights. We document a strong association between natural amenity quality and local
economic development. Economic activity grows faster near good surf breaks; following
the discovery of new breaks, or the technology needed to ride them; and during El Niño
events that generate high-quality waves. The effects are concentrated in nearby towns
and emerging economies, and population changes are consistent with tourism.