California’s Most Stunning Surf Spots

On May 14, the California Assembly voted 60-3 to make surfing California’s official sport (much to the chagrin of skateboarders everywhere). Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) reportedly wore a Hawaiian print shirt and described himself as “stoked” while discussing the measure, which he co-sponsored along with Ian Calderon (D-Whittier). The co-sponsors, who are avid surfers themselves, claim the sport not only encapsulates the spirit of California, but also generates over $6 billion in annual retail sales.

“Nothing represents the California Dream better than surfing—riding the waves and living in harmony with the beautiful beaches and ocean of our Golden State…Surfing is an iconic California sport and an important part of the multibillion dollar California coastal economy, particularly in the tourism and recreation industries,” Muratsuchi said in January in an official press release.

Consider this our official endorsement. In honor of surfing, here are the most stunning spots to catch a wave.

1. Rincon Point, Santa Barbara

A post shared by // Thomas Smith // (@creativeboost) on Dec 8, 2015 at 10:22am PST

 2. Malibu, Los Angeles

A post shared by Jason (@jasonkphotos) on Jan 19, 2018 at 8:59am PST

3. The Wedge, Newport Beach

A post shared by Chris Hilton (@chiltonphoto) on Jan 18, 2018 at 4:55pm PST

4. Laguna Beach

A post shared by Laguna Beach (@lagunabeachcom) on Jan 18, 2018 at 5:43pm PST

5. Huntington, Huntington Beach

A post shared by Teddy Navarro (@shreddyhb) on Jan 19, 2018 at 11:17am PST

6. Lower Trestles, San Clemente

A post shared by Sandy Perry (@sandyperryphotos) on Jan 13, 2018 at 2:35pm PST

7. Doheny State Beach

A post shared by Matt Gucci ॐ Los Angeles (@iamsakebomb) on Jan 18, 2018 at 8:13pm PST

8. Cardiff Reef,  San Diego

A post shared by Jack Johnson (@notthatjackjohnson) on Jan 19, 2018 at 7:40am PST

9. Blacks Beach, San Diego

A post shared by Steven Cummings (@jacuzzisurfer) on Jan 17, 2018 at 4:44pm PST

10. Steamer Lane, Santa Cruz

A post shared by John Jackson (@johnjksn) on Jan 15, 2018 at 6:20pm PST

This post was updated on May 15, 2018, to reflect the new development in the California Assembly.

RELATED: Gaze Inside Oceanside’s Sun-Soaked California Surf Museum

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