International Surfing Day

International Surfing Day, celebrated on the third Saturday in June, is a day dedicated to the love of surfing and the importance of ocean conservation. This special day brings together surfing enthusiasts from around the globe to enjoy the waves and participate in activities that promote the health of our oceans.

History of International Surfing Day

International Surfing Day was founded in 2005 by “Surfing Magazine” and the Surfrider Foundation to celebrate the sport of surfing and raise awareness about the environmental challenges facing our oceans. The day quickly gained popularity, with events now held worldwide, including surfing contests, beach clean-ups, and community gatherings. These activities emphasize the need for sustainable practices to protect ocean resources, reflecting the close relationship between surfers and the sea. ¹

Surfing has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Ancient Peruvians used reed watercraft for recreational and fishing purposes, and modern surfing, as we know it, originated in Hawaii. Introduced to the United States by Hawaiian princes in the late 19th century, surfing has since grown into a global sport. International Surfing Day celebrates this heritage while promoting environmental stewardship.

Why is International Surfing Day important?

International Surfing Day serves as a reminder of the deep connection between surfers and the ocean. Surfers are often among the first to notice changes in ocean health, such as pollution, erosion, and the impacts of climate change. By celebrating this day, we acknowledge the role surfers play as stewards of the sea and the importance of preserving the marine environment for future generations.

International Surfing Day is crucial as it highlights the significance of surfing culture and the need for ocean conservation. It promotes environmental awareness by encouraging sustainable practices and educating the public about the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. The day also fosters community spirit by bringing people together for a common cause, inspiring future generations to protect and preserve our oceans.

Moreover, the day emphasizes the need for collective action to address environmental issues. Through community events like beach cleanups and educational workshops, International Surfing Day fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages individuals to take tangible steps toward ocean conservation. It’s a day that combines the joy of surfing with the imperative of environmental activism.

• Celebrates the sport and culture of surfing
• Highlights the environmental challenges facing our oceans
• Inspires action to protect marine ecosystems
• Promotes awareness of sustainable practices
• Encourages community involvement in conservation efforts

How to celebrate International Surfing Day?

One of the best ways to celebrate International Surfing Day is to hit the waves. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner, enjoy the thrill of surfing and connect with the ocean. Organizing or joining a beach clean-up is another impactful way to celebrate. These events help remove debris and pollutants from shorelines, directly benefiting marine environments.

Additionally, hosting a surf-themed event like a contest, barbecue, or film screening can raise awareness and funds for ocean conservation efforts. Supporting ocean conservation organizations through donations or volunteering is also a great way to make a difference. Sharing your celebrations on social media with hashtags like #InternationalSurfingDay can inspire others to get involved and spread the message of environmental protection.

If you’re not near the coast, you can still participate by supporting organizations dedicated to ocean conservation, spreading awareness through social media, or learning more about the environmental issues affecting marine life. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the broader goal of protecting our oceans.

• Go surfing or take a surf lesson
• Participate in a beach cleanup
• Attend local events focused on ocean conservation
• Support organizations working to protect marine environments
• Share information about ocean health and sustainability

International Surfing Day Dates Table

Reviewed by HolidayToday Staff

Alex’s Take on International Surfing Day

You know, this is really a great holiday, not just because it glorifies surfers or anyone else, but because it pursues an important goal – the preservation of cleanliness and the environment. It’s one of those holidays where they say you can make a difference.

And although I’m far from surfing – I never understood how you can stay on those boards – I believe that this initiative can have far-reaching consequences. After all, the direct impact on ecology by this event is comparatively small, but the seeds of responsibility it plants in the minds of all participants and even observers are priceless. A fantastic holiday, go surfers!

I generally love events dedicated to environmental issues, like World Fisheries Day or World Turtle Day. I’m not exactly Greta Thunberg and not inclined to defend ecology too zealously, but I get a tangible pleasure when I think about the global impact my actions can have – like sorting waste, especially plastic. One thing for sure, the threat of world pollution by plastic is more than relevant. Just go to a river, pond, or even a forest. I don’t know about you, but I haven’t seen pristine places in a long time. Rivers with islands of trash have become the norm, unfortunately.

1. https://www.surfrider.org/our-history[↩]