When a series has been running as long as One Piece, it's bound to have a treasure trove of memorable moments ready to be plundered. What sets One Piece apart from most other long-running anime is consistency. Looking back throughout the years and its numerous arcs, there are iconic moments in every single canon story arc – from Luffy setting Zoro free to his epic showdown against Kaido.
There are currently 32 story arcs in One Piece. As the Wano Arc comes to a close and the final One Piece saga is about to begin, there's never been a better time to look back at some of the best moments in the iconic One Piece series.
32 Zoro Eats Muddied Rice Balls
Romance Dawn Arc (Episode 2)
During Episode 2, "Enter the Great Swordsman! Pirate Hunter Roronoa Zoro!," Zoro appears in Orange Town tied to a Cross. Rika, a young villager from Orange Town, feels sorry for Zoro, offering him rice balls. Zoro knows the danger she's unintentionally putting herself in by approaching a criminal with food. In an attempt to get her to leave, Zorro speaks to her harshly. Unfortunately, a group of low-level marines approach Zoro while she's there.
After trying a rice ball, Helmeppo spits it out, then knocks the other one to the ground, crushing them into the ground before leaving. Following this brief encounter, Luffy approaches Zoro. Zoro asks Luffy to feed him the now muddied rice balls. This moment highlighted Zoro's character. He's someone who wouldn't want to waste food and wants to respect Rika's effort. Rika lights up later on when Luffy tells her Zorro ate every last bit.
31 Shanks Gives Luffy His Straw Hat
Orange Town Arc (Episode 4)
During the first episode of the Orange Town arc, "Luffy's Past! Enter Red-Haired Shanks!," Luffy is kidnapped by a group of Bandits and taken out to sea. Shanks pursues them not long after and rescues Luffy. Suddenly, a Sea King appears and immediately lunges towards Luffy.
Shanks intervenes, saving Luffy from the Sea King's attack. As Luffy wells up, Shanks tells him not to cry. The next moment, viewers learn that Shanks lost an arm while protecting Luffy. When they return to land, Shanks gives Luffy his iconic Straw Hat. The moment is brief but is one of the most defining scenes in all of One Piece. The straw hat represents what it means to be a pirate to Luffy. By protecting Luffy, Shanks taught him that pirates protect their crew and the people close to them, and the straw hat symbolizes that moment.
30 Usopp Paints The Jolly Roger
Syrup Village Arc (Episode 18)
The Syrup Village arc's best scene occurs when Usopp paints the Straw Hat's Jolly Roger flag for their ship, Going Merry. This flag is symbolic of Usopp's relationship with pirates, as well as how he and Luffy are bound together by their connection to Shanks. While Usopp's parents are no longer with him as his mom passed away from a long-term illness when he was child and his Dad is part of Shank's Red Hair Pirates, he now shares a familial bond with the Straw Hats.
The Going Merry was gifted to the Straw Hat Pirates by Usopp's closest friend, Kaya, after defeating the Black Cat Pirates. For him, their Jolly Roger and the Going Merry hold great significance. Usopp believes pirates can achieve anything, including finding a miracle medicine that could have cured his dying mother. The flag is a symbol for all the things that are important to Usopp and a reminder that he will never stop trying to achieve his dreams.
29 Sanji Thanks Zeff
Baratie Arc (Episode 30)
During the final episode of the Baratie Arc, "Set Sail! The Seafaring Cook Sets off With Luffy!," Sanji is overwhelmed with emotion, and bows in front of Zeff, the owner of the Baratie ship and the person who took him in. Sanji, Zeff, and the Baratie cooks all begin to cry, as Sanji explains how much they all mean to him. To Sanji, the Baratie crew are his family, and performing a dogeza bow (the strongest way of showing respect in Japanese culture), was his way of showing how much he cares for them.
Sanji had a traumatic childhood and leaving his new family was a scary decision for him, even if he would never openly admit it. The moment Sanji performed this bow, it marked his transition from being a cook on the Baratie to someone who was about to embark on an adventure to achieve his dream and find the All Blue. The child who was rejected by the Vinsmokes, now has a dream and two families who care for him.
28 Luffy Gives Nami His Straw Hat
Arlong Park Arc (Episode 37)
When Nami first sets sail aboard the Going Merry, her goal is to steal enough money to buy back her hometown, Cocoyasi Village, from the villainous Arlong. When she returns home with the agreed upon amount, Arlong coldly laughs in her face as he reveals that he had no intention of releasing her village. Humiliated and devastated, Nami breaks down and begins to repeatedly stab her Arlong Pirates tattoo while shouting Arlong's name.
At this moment, Luffy appears to stop her. She tries to reject him, but Luffy already considers Nami his friend and refuses to leave. Feeling hopeless, Nami turns to Luffy and tearfully asks him to help her. In a touching gesture, Luffy places his hat on Nami's head, Nami is stunned because she knows what this hat means to him. Luffy then takes off with the rest of the Straw Hats to confront Arlong. This powerful and iconic moment signified Luffy's unwavering determination to protect his nakama.
27 The Straw Hats Reveal Their Ambitions
Loguetown Arc (Episode 53)
During the Loguetown Arc, the Straw Hat Pirates share their life ambitions as they prepare to leave the East Blue and set sail towards the Grand Line. The Straw Hats, standing in the rain, each place one foot on a porthole and share their life ambitions.
Luffy declares he will become King of the Pirates, Zoro strives to become the strongest swordsman in the world, Usopp wants to become a brave warrior of the sea, Sanji dreams of finding the All Blue, and Nami wants to draw a map of the entire world. This scene beautifully illustrates that while they may all have different ambitions, they wholeheartedly support each other as a tightly-knit crew. No matter the weather, they face it together.
26 Luffy Punches A Whale
Reverse Mountain Arc (Episode 62)
Following their departure from Loguetown, the Straw Hats cross Reverse Mountain, where, much like the name suggests, water flows upwards and over the mountain. Suddenly, a colossal whale appears, blocking the Straw Hat Pirates' path. All of the crew members, including the typically fearless Zoro, look terrified as a colossal whale called Laboon towers over them. While everyone else is freaking out about the sudden appearance of this gigantic creature, Luffy is furious that the whale has caused his favorite seat to be destroyed.
Luffy seizes this opportunity to confront the gigantic whale head-on, punching it square in the eye. The whale, surprisingly unfazed, looks down as Zoro and Usopp, bemused and exasperated, promptly kick Luffy to the ground while calling him an idiot. Following their departure from Loguetown, the East Blue Saga comes to a close, marking the start of the Arabasta Saga with the brief 2-episode Reverse Mountain Arc. From this point onward, the Straw Hat Pirates' encounters become progressively weirder and more formidable, setting the stage for the adventures that lie ahead.
25 Luffy vs. Zoro
Whisky Peak Arc (Episode 66)
In Episode 66, "All Out Battle! Luffy vs. Zoro! Mysterious Grand Duel!," Luffy and Zoro end up fighting each other. Impressively, Zoro manages to hold his own against Luffy, he even causes a powerful blast of air that sends Luffy flying into the distance. Of course, Luffy, being made of rubber, can compensate for huge distances by extending his limbs to land a blow on Zoro.
At this point, they have unintentionally but humorously knocked out two of the nearby numbered agents, and it's only when Nami comes along and smacks them on the head that they stop fighting. During their time in Whiskey Peak, they encounter the first members of Crocodile's number gang that similarly provide standout moments with their wacky and humorous powers, such as Miss Wednesday, Mr. 9, Mr. 5, and Miss Monday.
24 Garp Takes On New Students
Diary Of Koby-Meppo Arc (Episode 68)
In the Diary of Koby-Meppo Arc, Garp is impressed with Koby and Helmeppo's willingness to risk their lives, so he decides to take them under his care and train them. These two episodes, although they may feel like filler, are actually part of the canon story, lasting only two episodes. They primarily focus on Koby and Helmeppo. In this arc, they have grown older and joined the Marines with the hope of becoming influential navy figures, aiming to change the world for the better.
Their optimism takes a hit when they realize that the Marines include numerous corrupt and ill-intentioned individuals, making their experience disheartening and fear-inducing. However, a glimmer of hope emerges as Garp, who has been discreetly observing Koby and Helmeppo from a distant ship, acknowledges their courage and determination, leading to his decision to mentor and train them.
23 Miss Goldenweek's Power
Little Garden Arc (Episode 75)
The best moment in the Little Garden Arc may be its most curious: Miss Goldenweek's power. While Luffy is fighting Mr. 3, Miss. Goldenweek's unique power, Colors Trap, begins to weave its influence. Shockingly, Luffy uncharacteristically says in Episode 75, "What should I do? I don't feel like saving you guys," as Zoro and Nami are slowly enveloped in wax. The camera switches its focus from Luffy to Miss Goldenweek as she reveals her power.
This moment is particularly fantastic as it explores how a character's mental state can be influenced by unique special abilities. In the case of Miss Goldenweek, she can profoundly influence a character's emotions by painting different colored symbols. What makes this moment even more amazing is that, unlike most other One Piece characters with special abilities, Miss Goldenweek does not possess a Devil Fruit. Sadly, nothing has been mentioned in the series that would explain how abilities outside of Devil Fruits can exist.
22 Dr. Hiriluk's Sakura Bloom
Drum Island Arc (Episode 90)
Following their visit to Little Garden, the Straw Hats set off to Drum Island, hoping to find a doctor. During the previous Little Garden Arc, Nami is bitten by a bug that renders her bedridden for the first few episodes. When they arrive at Drum Island, fans meet Dr. Hirluk -- the man who took in Chopper.
During his life, Dr. Hiriluk wanted to leave a legacy, so he decided on an idea to bring an endless bloom of Sakura to the perpetual winter island. Dr. Kureha, the village people and even himself doubted whether it would be possible. Unfortunately, Hiriluk died without having achieved his goal. Before the Straw Hats leave the island, there's a heartbreaking moment where Chopper and Kureha notice Sakura blooming around them. Hiriluk's theory had been validated, and it's an overwhelming moment for the people of Drum Island.
21 The Straw Hats Show Their Support For Vivi
Alabasta Arc (Episode 129)
The Alabasta arc is the fifth and final arc in the Alabasta saga, and it doesn't disappoint, containing multiple iconic moments. The most iconic scene occurs while the Going Merry is under attack. As the Straw Hats are leaving the Alabasta Kingdom, Vivi cries out to them asking them if they will remain friends. When Luffy tries to respond Nami stops him, she reminds Luffy that if they confirm their friendship, Vivi will be considered an enemy of the World Government. It pains them to ignore Vivi's cries, and Vivi is heartbroken.
However, when Vivi looks up again she sees the Straw Hats with their arms in the air, revealing the "x" they'd drawn earlier. Initially the "x" was to ensure they would recognize each other once they entered the war-torn Alabasta Kingdom, now it represents their friendship with Vivi and how much they mean to each other. The One Piece theme "We Are" kicks in as they continue to keep their arms raised. Vivi is their friend now and forever – they wanted to make this clear to her as the boat sails into the distance.
20 Luffy Punches Bellamy
Jaya Arc (Episode 151)
The Jaya Arc is the first arc in the third One Piece saga, Sky Island. During this brief arc, the Straw Hats' reputations begin to make waves around the world, with the World Government finally taking notice of them and putting a substantial 100 million berri bounty on Luffy's head. During Sky Island, Luffy ends up fighting Bellamy who questions Luffy's bounty and challenges him.
As they fight, it quickly becomes apparent that Bellamy is also a pirate with a bounty, and he becomes annoyed that Luffy's is so high. Unfortunately for Bellamy, there is a massive difference in strength between himself and Luffy, and he ends up having his head slammed into the ground after being completely outclassed. This moment firmly established Luffy as a pirate who would progressively become more of a threat.
19 Rubber Beats Lightning
Skypiea Arc (Episode 182)
Skypiea's best moment is saved for Luffy, who surprises not only himself but everyone around him, too. Though Enel was a formidable opponent, his lightning-based powers were rendered ineffective against Luffy's rubber abilities. At first, Enel hits Luffy with a few attacks, thinking he has the blistering speed to dodge them without him noticing.
Unfortunately for Enel, Luffy wasn't dodging any of his attacks. Suddenly and hilariously, Enel realizes his Devil Fruit powers are useless against him, causing his jaw to drop and his eyes to bulge in shock.
18 The Long Dog
Long Ring Long Land Arc (Episode 207)
Long Ring Long Land arc is the first part of the Water 7 saga. This arc is definitely one of the more controversial arcs, with numerous fans debating whether it should be considered canon. The villain in this arc is called Foxy the Silver Fox. Both he and his crew have a more cartoony feel to them as they force the Straw Hats to participate in a series of games called a Davy Back Fight. The winner gets to claim a crewmate from the other team's ship.
While this is a bizarre arc, there are a few memorable moments. The highlight of the arc arrives when the Straw Hats first arrive at Long Ring Long Land island, where they encounter numerous animals that are just like the ones they are familiar with but larger with extended limbs. The best one is a long dog whose body stretches off into the distance.
17 Usopp vs. Luffy
Water 7 Arc (Episode 236)
In Episode 236, "Luffy vs. Usopp! Collision of Two Men's Pride!," Usopp ends up fighting Luffy following a disagreement about whether they should leave the Going Merry and get a new ship. The fight is both emotionally and visually engaging. Fans know how much the Going Merry means to Ussop. This was a ship gifted to the Straw Hats by Kaya, Usopp's closest childhood friend, and, combined with the memories he has made on the ship, it makes leaving the ship incredibly hard for him.
It is heartbreaking to watch Usopp, as it quickly becomes clear that Usopp feels that abandoning the Going Merry is equivalent to abandoning a friend. When Luffy fights Usopp, he does so not because he wants to, but because Zoro encourages Luffy to assert his position as captain. Surprisingly, as the fight progresses, Usopp uses the Dials he picked up at Skypiea to great effect, enabling him to repel Luffy's attacks. Incredibly, by combining gas spewing out of one of the Dials with an explosive with a flaming pellet to cause a massive explosion. While it was inevitable Usopp would lose, his inventiveness enabled him to perform better than most would have imagined.
16 Nico Robin Wants To Live
Enies Lobby Arc (Episode 278)
Following Water 7's emotional ending, the Enies Lobby Arc continues to bring the tears but this time the focus is on Nico Robin. As they battle their way through the castle, they eventually reach the point where they can see Robin while she is surrounded by CP9 agents. Luffy asks Robin if she wants to be rescued.
At first, she seems conflicted, knowing the danger she could be putting the Straw Hats in by asking for their help. Fortunately, after a flashback sequence of her childhood, Robin realizes she deserves to be respected and valued. This arc introduces arguably the most iconic statement in the entire series when Nico Robin declares, "I want to live." During this arc, the Straw Hats, the Franky group, and the Gallery-La company, all team up to attack Enies Lobby and rescue Robin.
15 Usopp's Return
Post-Enies Lobby Arc (Episode 323)
The two best moments of the Post-Enies Lobby Arc overlap with one another. As the Straw Hat Pirates set off from Enies Lobby, they do so following Usopp helping them under the identity of Sogeking. When Usopp finally decides to confront Luffy and admits he wants to join them, they've already departed.
Garp, with the help of the marines, aims to take down the Going Merry, with Garp quickly and effectively throwing cannonballs at them with his bare hands. Usopp runs to the cliff edge and shouts out, but his cries fall on deaf ears because he hasn't apologized. As the cannonballs continue to rein down on them, Usopp finally says he's sorry, and Luffy extends his arm into the distance. Usopp grabs his hand, is pulled towards the Thousand Sunny, and official rejoins his crew.
14 Zoro Takes Luffy's Pain
Thriller Bark Arc (Episode 377)
In the Thriller Bark Saga one of the greatest moments in One Piece history occurs. After the Straw Hats defeat Gecko Moria, Bartholomew Kuma approaches them and states that if they hand over Luffy's head he will spare their lives. Naturally, they refuse, but Kuma seemingly knocks everyone out before they can put up a proper fight. As he advances towards Luffy, Zoro strikes him with his sword. Zoro tries to hold steady, but he's too badly injured from his previous battle. Zoro soon realizes he's in no condition to fight and begs Kuma to take his life instead – asserting that "it's the only way to save [his] crewmates" and that "[his] ambition means nothing if [he] can't protect [his] own captain."
Moved by Zoro's devotion and unwilling to attack an unconscious man, Kuma makes a deal with Zoro. In exchange for Luffy's life, Zoro must take on the physical manifestation of all of Luffy's pain and suffering. Kuma makes it clear that in Zoro's current state, this will surely kill him. Zoro steadily agrees and with gratitude. To start, Kuma gives Zoro a small taste of what is to come, and it nearly kills him, but Zoro is still willing. Soon, Sanji awakens in a panic once he sees Zoro is missing as he was the only one who witnessed Zoro offering up his life. When Sanji finds Zoro is impressively on his feet shaking and covered in blood. When Sanji asks what happened Zoro responds with one of the best quotes in One Piece, "nothing happened."
13 Luffy Punches A Celestial
Sabaody Archipelago Arc (Episode 397)
The Sabaody Archipelago Arc is the first part of the epic Summit War saga. During this first arc, the Straw Hats land on Sabaody. While there, they rush to rescue their mermaid friend Camie. The Straw Hats soon crash into the Human Auctioning House just as Camie is being auctioned to the highest bidder. While there, a Fishman named Hatchan attempts to rescue Camie.
In that instant, the Celestial Dragon Saint Charlos, shoots Hatchan and begins dancing and celebrating. Though Charlos pulls a gun on Luffy, the Straw Hat captain doesn't flinch and continues his charge. Luffy's eyes bulge with fury as he knocks out the World Noble with one swift punch, causing a massive commotion involving the Marines.
