Bethany Hamilton’s story of resilience—surviving a shark attack at age 13 and returning to professional surfing—has inspired millions. However, behind her unwavering courage and success lies a tight-knit family whose love, faith, and support have been the foundation of her journey. From her parents and siblings to her own husband and children, Bethany’s family has played an indispensable role in shaping her life, both in and out of the water.
A Foundation of Faith and Adventure: The Hamilton Parents
Bethany was born on February 8, 1990, to Tom and Cheri Hamilton, who moved to Kauai, Hawaii, in the 1980s seeking a life centered around faith, simplicity, and the ocean. Tom, an avid surfer, and Cheri, a dedicated homemaker, raised Bethany and her two older brothers, Noah and Timmy, in a household that prioritized outdoor adventure and Christian values. Their decision to homeschool their children allowed the family to spend countless hours at the beach, where Bethany discovered her passion for surfing at a young age.
When the shark attack left Bethany without her left arm in 2003, Tom and Cheri became her pillars of strength. They encouraged her to return to surfing just weeks after the incident, with Tom even modifying her board to help her adapt. Their unwavering belief in her abilities, combined with their emphasis on trusting God’s plan, gave Bethany the courage to pursue her dreams against all odds. Today, they remain active in her life, often appearing alongside her in documentaries, interviews, and outreach programs.
Sibling Bonds: Noah and Timmy Hamilton
Growing up with two older brothers, Noah and Timmy, Bethany developed a fierce competitive spirit. The siblings spent their childhoods surfing, exploring Hawaii’s landscapes, and pushing one another to excel. After her injury, Noah and Timmy played a critical role in helping Bethany regain her confidence. They challenged her in the water, treating her no differently than before, which motivated her to innovate her surfing technique.
While Noah pursued a career as a firefighter and Timmy became a musician, both brothers have remained close to Bethany. They frequently join her for family surf sessions and support her philanthropic efforts, including her foundation, Friends of Bethany, which empowers amputees and trauma survivors. Their bond reflects a shared upbringing rooted in resilience, faith, and mutual respect.
Love and Partnership: Bethany’s Husband, Adam Dirks
In 2013, Bethany married Adam Dirks, a youth minister and former professional surfer. The couple met through a church group in Kauai, and their relationship quickly blossomed over shared values of faith, family, and service. Adam’s calm demeanor and steadfast support have complemented Bethany’s adventurous spirit, creating a partnership built on balance and purpose.
Adam has been instrumental in helping Bethany navigate the demands of motherhood and professional surfing. He often travels with her to competitions, cares for their children during her training sessions, and co-parents with a focus on instilling the same love for nature and resilience they both cherish. In interviews, Bethany credits Adam for bringing stability and joy to her life, calling him her “rock” and “best friend.”
Growing the Hamilton-Dirks Clan: Bethany’s Children
Bethany and Adam are parents to three sons: Tobias (born 2015), Wesley (2018), and Micah (2021). Motherhood has added a new dimension to Bethany’s identity, inspiring her to advocate for environmental causes and family wellness. The couple raises their children in Hawaii, immersing them in surfing, hiking, and a deep appreciation for the ocean.
Bethany often shares glimpses of their family life on social media, showcasing beach outings, school activities, and candid moments of joy. Her sons have already begun following in her footsteps, learning to surf and embrace an active lifestyle. In a 2022 interview, Bethany remarked, “Being a mom is my greatest adventure. I want my kids to grow up knowing they can overcome anything with faith and perseverance.”
The Extended Family and Community
Beyond her immediate family, Bethany’s extended relatives and Hawaiian community have played a vital role in her life. Her cousins, aunts, uncles, and in-laws frequently gather for celebrations, surf trips, and volunteer work. The tight-knit culture of Kauai, where neighbors treat one another like family, has also provided Bethany with a sense of belonging and encouragement throughout her career.
A Legacy of Strength and Unity
Bethany Hamilton’s family is more than just a support system—they are the heartbeat of her story. From her parents’ early lessons in courage to her brothers’ playful challenges, her husband’s unwavering partnership, and the joy her children bring, each member has contributed to her legacy as a athlete, advocate, and role model. Together, they exemplify the power of faith, love, and perseverance, proving that family is the ultimate source of strength in life’s toughest waves.
As Bethany continues to inspire through speaking engagements, films like Soul Surfer, and her foundation, her family remains by her side, embodying the values that turned a tragic event into a testament of hope. Their story reminds us that with a strong family foundation, even the impossible becomes possible.
