Since 1885, when three Hawaiian princes surfed the waves in Santa Cruz using redwood boards, surfing has become a significant part of California’s culture. Over time, notable figures such as Bob Simmons, recognized as the “father of the modern surfboard,” and Jack O’Neill, inventor of the wetsuit, have played key roles in advancing the sport. California has even established September 20 as California Surfing Day to honor this legacy.
Ahead of this annual celebration, a group including surfers Tara Sachi, Alicia Kelley, and Carson Myers; artists Nolan Omura, Sho Niimura, Collin Blaney; visual artist Matty Leong; and photographer Alex Qian toured several Southern California surf destinations to explore the region’s surf heritage.
“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.”
The group began their journey at Los Angeles International Airport before visiting Malibu and Ventura. They explored Huntington Beach—known for its historic connection to surfing since 1914—and Dana Point. Photographer Alex Qian described each destination: “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 start with views from Ventura Botanical Gardens before heading to C Street for consistent waves—a spot known for hosting California’s first professional surf contest in 1965. Local businesses like MadeWest Brewing Company’s pier taproom offer views of C Street along with local brews. Spencer Makenzie’s is recommended for fish tacos based on local advice from Ventura Surf Shop staff. The Jolly Oyster Shuck Shack provides fresh oysters by San Buenaventura State Beach Park.
For equipment or guidance, Walden Surfboards and Ventura Surf Shop are available nearby. Accommodation options include Crowne Plaza Hotel Ventura Beach.
Huntington Beach has earned its reputation as “Surf City USA” over more than a century. The city features institutions such as the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum and Surfers’ Hall of Fame. The main action is around Huntington Pier but quieter spots can be found further along the beach. On Tuesdays, Surf City Nights Farmers Market offers seasonal produce and local goods. Dining options include Duke’s Huntington Beach—named after influential surfer Duke Kahanamoku—and Paséa Hotel is noted for its proximity to both oceanfront surfing spots and shopping areas.
Dana Point remains another important hub for surfers with notable breaks at Salt Creek—favored by photographers—and Doheny State Park—popular among beginners and longboarders. Hobie Surf Shop opened here in 1954 as Southern California’s first dedicated surf store. The nearby Surfing Heritage and Culture Center houses a large collection related to global surf history.
After exploring local attractions, A’s Burgers on Pacific Coast Highway offers classic fare for hungry surfers before they settle in at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa near Doheny State Park.
