Since the late 19th century, surfing has been an important part of California’s identity. The tradition began in 1885 when three Hawaiian princes rode the waves in Santa Cruz using redwood boards. Since then, notable figures such as Bob Simmons, known as the “father of the modern surfboard,” and Jack O’Neill, who invented the wetsuit, have influenced the sport’s growth. In recognition of its significance, California observes an official holiday for surfing on September 20.
Ahead of California Surfing Day, a group including surfers Tara Sachi, Alicia Kelley, and Carson Myers; artists Nolan Omura, Sho Niimura, and Collin Blaney; visual artist Matty Leong; and photographer Alex Qian traveled along the Southern California coast to explore local surf culture.
“The people and surfers are what make the surf culture very unique and different in California,” said Leong. “Every place has its own awesome surf community and everyone supports each other and knows each other, which I find very cool. There’s also history at every break; some surfing legends started surfing some of these breaks in California.”
Qian described differences between stops on their journey: “Ventura was charming and felt homegrown, Huntington Beach felt historic and quick-paced with all the competitive surfers that rolled through in the past, and Dana Point had the polished museum full of history, set in one of the nicest backdrops.”
The group’s itinerary included several well-known destinations:
In Ventura, they visited Ventura Botanical Gardens before heading to C Street (California Street), a surf spot known for reliable waves that hosted California’s first professional surf contest in 1965. Dining recommendations included MadeWest Brewing Company’s Ventura Pier taproom for ocean views with craft beer; Spencer Makenzie’s for fish tacos recommended by locals; and Jolly Oyster Shuck Shack at San Buenaventura State Beach Park. They suggested Walden Surfboards or Ventura Surf Shop for equipment needs.
In Huntington Beach—also called “Surf City USA”—the team highlighted historical sites such as the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum, Surfers’ Hall of Fame, and Surfing Walk of Fame. The city is known for its consistent beach breaks around its pier. Visitors arriving on Tuesdays can visit Surf City Nights Farmers Market before dining at Duke’s Huntington Beach restaurant near Pacific City shopping center. Lodging options included Paséa Hotel close to both waterfronts and retail outlets.
Dana Point offered more essential surfing locations like Salt Creek—popular among photographers—and Doheny State Park favored by beginners and longboarders. Hobie Surf Shop operates near its original site from 1954. For those interested in history, they recommended visiting the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center in nearby San Clemente to view a large collection of artifacts related to global surfing history. A’s Burgers on Pacific Coast Highway was noted for burgers and breakfast burritos since 1970; accommodations were available at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa near Doheny State Park.
The group emphasized that while all these destinations focus on surfing culture, each offers distinct experiences shaped by local communities.
