California’s surfing culture, rooted in history since 1885 when Hawaiian princes first rode the waves at Santa Cruz, continues to attract enthusiasts and shape local communities. The state recognizes this legacy with California Surfing Day on September 20.
Ahead of this celebration, a group of surfers and artists traveled along the Southern California coast to explore its surf culture. Visual artist Matty Leong described the region’s surf community: “The people and surfers are what make the surf culture very unique and different in California. 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.”
Leong was accompanied by surfers Tara Sachi, Alicia Kelley, Carson Myers, artists Nolan Omura, Sho Niimura, Collin Blaney, and Los Angeles photographer Alex Qian who guided the tour.
Their journey began at Los Angeles International Airport before heading to Malibu and Ventura for their first sessions. The group then visited Huntington Beach and Dana Point. According to Qian, “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.”
In Ventura, visitors can view the coastline from Ventura Botanical Gardens before heading to C Street—a surf spot known for consistent waves and as host of California’s first professional surf contest in 1965. Local establishments like MadeWest Brewing Company’s Ventura Pier taproom offer views of C Street alongside local food such as fish tacos at Spencer Makenzie’s or oysters at Jolly Oyster Shuck Shack.
Surf shops including Walden Surfboards and Ventura Surf Shop provide gear and advice for those new to the area. Accommodation options include Crowne Plaza Hotel Ventura Beach near downtown.
Huntington Beach is recognized as “Surf City USA” due to its long-standing connection with surfing history dating back to George Freeth’s demonstration in 1914. Museums such as the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum document this heritage. The city offers various beach breaks suitable for different skill levels near its pier.
On Tuesdays, Surf City Nights Farmers Market features local produce and goods while Duke’s Huntington Beach serves meals honoring Duke Kahanamoku—whose exhibitions helped popularize surfing locally during the 1920s. Paséa Hotel provides lodging close to both ocean access points and shopping areas. Qian noted: “The Paséa Hotel that was steps away from the waterfront where we surfed… This was great since we could wash up and head out to dinner right away from the beach.”
Dana Point remains another key location with Salt Creek attracting experienced surfers while Doheny State Park is popular among beginners. Hobie Surf Shop has served locals since 1954 near its original site; nearby San Clemente houses the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center displaying international collections related to surfing.
Dining options like A’s Burgers on Pacific Coast Highway cater to hungry surfers with classic fare since 1970. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa offers accommodation close to Doheny State Park beaches.
