Malibu Surf Camp best location on earth for surfing
Join us in Malibu, CA for summer surf camp and more. The waves are great for all levels here.
Pick up and drop off 9am to 3pm M-F
Malibu Lagoon State Beach 3999 Cross Creek Road parking lot
The history of surfing at Malibu Point, also known as Surfrider Beach, is deeply intertwined with the growth and popularization of the sport in Southern California. Here's a closer look at the fascinating history of surfing at this iconic surf spot:
Early Years:
Surfing at Malibu Point dates back to the early 20th century. In 1907, Hawaiian surfer George Freeth demonstrated the sport in Southern California, captivating locals with his skills. His demonstration at Redondo Beach piqued the interest of beachgoers and sparked the beginnings of the surfing culture in the area.
The Malibu Pier Era:
In the 1920s and 1930s, Malibu Point became a focal point for the growing surfing community. The Malibu Pier, which extended out into the ocean, provided convenient access to the waves and became a gathering spot for surfers. The long, rolling swells breaking along the Malibu coastline were ideal for the emerging sport of surfing.
The "Malibu Board" and the Birth of Modern Surfing:
During this time, local surfers, including Pete Peterson, Matt Kivlin, and Bob Simmons, pioneered innovative board designs that would shape the future of surfing. Simmons, in particular, experimented with lightweight, maneuverable boards made from balsa wood and fiberglass, which greatly improved surfing performance.
Surfing gained further popularity in the 1950s when the Malibu Board, a long, stable board, became the symbol of the sport. Surfers embraced the "Malibu chip," a lightweight balsa board created by Bob Simmons, as it allowed for greater maneuverability and more dynamic surfing.
The Gidget Era:
The 1959 publication of the book "Gidget: The Little Girl with Big Ideas" by Frederick Kohner further popularized surfing at Malibu Point. The book, inspired by the experiences of Kohner's daughter Kathy, portrayed the beach lifestyle and the joy of riding waves. The subsequent film and television adaptations brought surfing into the mainstream consciousness, attracting more people to the sport and solidifying Malibu's reputation as a surfing paradise.
Contests and Competitions:
In the 1960s, organized surfing competitions gained momentum at Malibu Point. The Malibu Surfing Association was formed in 1961, and it hosted the United States Surfing Championships at Malibu Point in 1962 and 1963. These events showcased the talent of local surfers and brought increased attention to the area as a premier surfing destination.
Surfing Malibu Point Today:
Today, Malibu Point remains a celebrated surf spot, renowned for its consistent and high-quality waves. It continues to attract surfers from around the world who seek the long, peeling rights and occasional lefts that break off the point. Surfrider Beach, encompassing First, Second, and Third Points, is part of Malibu Lagoon State Beach and has been designated as the first World Surfing Reserve, recognizing its environmental and cultural significance.
Surfing at Malibu Point has become an integral part of the area's identity, influencing surf culture and shaping the evolution of the sport. The history and legacy of Malibu Point serve as a testament to the enduring allure and importance of this iconic surf spot in the world of surfing.
