The family of an 18-year-old who died in the surf has shared their “unimaginable pain” following his death.

Surf lifesaver Joe Tolano disappeared off the Sunshine Coast during a surf with friends before training on Wednesday, prompting a three-day search.

Authorities said they found Mr Tolano’s body in the water at 6pm on Friday.

Mr Tolano’s family, including parents Glenn, Clare, and sister Abbie, have released a statement detailing their loss .

“Joe was a child of the ocean and he absolutely loved nippers. His body was small but his heart huge,” they said.

“He was chasing his dream of being an Ironman. We have lost him doing what he loved, surrounded by some of his best mates, and that fact helps us carry this unimaginable pain.”

Flowers were left at Buddina Beach where Joe Tolano died.

Flowers were left at Buddina Beach where Joe Tolano died. (ABC News: Dylan Morris)

They said they felt grateful for the love and support from friends, family and surf lifesaving community.

“We are sincerely appreciative of the efforts of [Surf Life Saving Queensland], emergency services and volunteers who have made it possible to have him back with us,” they said.

Joe Tolan surfing

Joe Tolano is being remembered for his love of the ocean. (Supplied: Tolano family)

SLQ chief operating officer Greg Cahill said the loss has been deeply felt within the surf lifesaving community across the state.

“Joe was a passionate and dedicated young lifesaver who was well known and respected by his club peers, teammates and competitors,” Mr Cahill said.

Metropolitan Caloundra Surf Life Saving Club president Brett Magnussen said the club was devastated.

“Joe was a valued and much-loved member of our Met Caloundra family,” Mr Magnussen said.

He said Mr Tolano joined the club after many years at Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

Small tents with people nearby on beach.

The Tolano family said they were thankful for everyone’s search efforts. (ABC News: Josh Dye)

“He was a passionate young lifesaver, who loved patrolling the beach and keeping people safe,” Mr Magnussen said.

“He brought great energy to training and competition, and he was incredibly well regarded not just within our club but across the Sunshine Coast surf lifesaving community.

“This is an incredibly difficult time for our members, particularly the young people who trained and competed alongside Joe.

“Our entire club is heartbroken, and our thoughts are firmly with Joe’s family and friends.”

Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club president Johnny Gooderham said Mr Tolano had been with the club since he was a nipper.

“Joe and his family have been a big part of our club for many years and continue to be involved. Our entire club is heartbroken, and we’re all devastated by this loss,” Mr Gooderham said.