🌊 Annual Surf Contests in Orange County (2026 Guide)
Discover the top annual surf contests in Orange County, from the US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach to world-class events at Trestles and Doheny.
Orange County is one of the most important competitive surf regions in the United States. From world-tour stops at Lower Trestles to grassroots city championships, the OC surf calendar blends elite performance with deep local tradition. Here are the standout annual surf contests to watch each year.
🏆 Professional & International Events
US Open of Surfing — Huntington Beach
When: Late July–Early August
Where: Southside of the Huntington Beach Pier
The largest surf competition in North America, this multi-division event brings global pros, massive crowds, and a full beach festival atmosphere to Surf City USA.
Lexus Trestles Pro — San Clemente (Lower Trestles)
When: Typically June
Where: Lower Trestles
A premier high-performance contest held at one of the world’s most technically perfect waves. Expect elite, progressive surfing.
Jack’s Surfboards Pro — Huntington Beach
When: Early April
Where: Huntington Beach Pier
A respected WSL North America qualifying event showcasing rising professional talent.
ISA World Para Surfing Championship — Huntington Beach
When: Fall
Where: Huntington Beach
An international adaptive surfing championship highlighting elite para surfers from around the world.
🌊 Amateur & City Championships
Huntington Beach City Surf Contest — Huntington Beach
When: September
Where: Huntington Beach Pier
A long-running community competition featuring local surfers of all ages.
Salty Crew Newport Beach Surf Championships — Newport Beach
When: Fall
Where: Newport Beach
One of OC’s strongest amateur city contests, drawing competitive local talent.
USA Surfing Championships — San Clemente (Lower Trestles)
When: Early Summer
Where: Lower Trestles
A national youth championship event that serves as a pathway to Olympic-level competition.
🌴 Heritage & Community Classics
San Clemente Ocean Festival Surf Contests — San Clemente
When: July
Where: San Clemente Pier
Includes the Pier Bowl Surf Classic and youth competitions during the iconic ocean-sports festival weekend.
Velzy Surf Contest & Luau — Dana Point (Doheny State Beach)
When: September
A beloved longboard-forward event honoring surf legend Dale Velzy.
Surf Queenie of Doheny — Dana Point
When: October
A women-centered surf contest celebrating community and coastal tradition.
Seal Beach Surf Championships — Seal Beach
When: Swell-dependent (annual)
A unique North County contest that runs during optimal surf conditions.