The dielectric elastomer is a new type of functional material, and its energy collection is mainly applied to lowfrequency, largedeformation energy sources, which is very compatible with ocean energy generation. This paper describes the basic principle of dielectric elastomer power generation, its material properties and the research progress of electrode materials for power generation device. Aiming at the problems of high cost, few types and low energy conversion efficiency of current dielectric elastomer marine power generation devices, this paper summarizes different types of marine power generation devices based on dielectric elastomer and their research schemes at home and abroad, and analyses the characteristics and application occasions of different types of generators. The results show that the buoytype and tubular hydrodynamic generators have broad application prospects. Finally, the problems that need to be solved urgently in the application of dielectric elastomers to ocean energy are discussed, and some suggestions for further solving the abovementioned problems are put forward.