What is Surfing Day?

Surfing Day is officially called International Surfing Day and takes place every year on the Third Saturday of June. This global celebration of wave riding began in the United States but is now held worldwide, especially in coastal countries with strong surf cultures. The day combines fun in the ocean with efforts to protect it.

This day is about enjoying the ocean, sharing the joy of surfing, and giving back to the beaches and seas that make the sport possible. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer, a beginner with a foam board, or just someone who loves the beach ; Surfing Day is a moment to celebrate the water, the waves, and the community that surrounds them.

History and Origin

International Surfing Day was founded in 2005 by Surfrider Foundation and Surfing Magazine. The goal was simple: take a day to go surfing and give something back to the ocean. Since then, it has grown into a global event held in over 30 countries.

The idea of combining surfing with environmental action wasn’t new, but Surfing Day gave it structure. Cleanups, dune restoration, and awareness campaigns became part of the tradition. Surfers often feel a deep connection to the sea, and this day puts that connection into action.

Over the years, the event has evolved. Some places host surf contests, others hold film screenings or beach yoga. The core idea stays the same: surf, smile, and protect what you love.

Who participates in Surfing Day?

• Surfers: From longboarders to shortboarders, from pros to grommets, surfers of all levels get in the water to celebrate.
• Environmental groups: Organizations focused on ocean and coastal health use the day to organize cleanups and awareness events.
• Surf schools: Many offer free or discounted lessons to welcome new people to the sport and lifestyle.
• Coastal communities: Locals who live near the beach often join in, helping with events or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
• Ocean lovers: You don’t have to surf to celebrate. Many swimmers, paddleboarders, and beachgoers take part in the festivities.

Slogans and Themes

Slogans for Surfing Day often focus on the link between joy and responsibility. Popular ones include “Surf. Protect. Enjoy.” and “Catch a wave, make a change.” Themes vary by year, sometimes focusing on ocean plastic, rising sea levels, or coastal access. The message is always clear: the ocean gives us so much ; it’s time we gave something back.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors

• Blue: Represents the ocean and its depth. Used in logos, posters, and clothing for the event.
• White: Symbolizes waves and foam, often used to give contrast in visuals.
• Green: Stands for nature and environmental action, highlighting the eco-focus of the day.

Symbols

• Surfboard: The main symbol of the day, often shown upright in the sand or riding a wave.
• Wave: A visual shorthand for both the sport and the sea itself.
• Sea turtle: Used in some campaigns to represent marine life and the need to protect fragile ecosystems.

Patterns

• Wave lines: Fluid, rolling shapes mimic the motion of the sea.
• Shell or coral motifs: Found in beach decor and promotional material, adding a natural element.
• Board textures: Fin patterns or wax prints often appear in graphic designs related to Surfing Day.

Most used hashtags

• #surfingday
• #internationalsurfingday
• #surfandprotect
• #surferlife
• #lovetheocean

How do you celebrate Surfing Day?

• Go surfing: Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, grab a board and hit the water.
• Join a beach cleanup: Many groups organize coastal cleanups on this day ; help remove trash and keep the beach clean.
• Take a lesson: Surf schools often open their doors to beginners. It’s a perfect chance to start learning.
• Support ocean charities: Donate, volunteer, or spread the word about groups working to protect marine life and coastal areas.
• Host a surf movie night: Invite friends over and watch a classic surf film to celebrate the culture and lifestyle.

Why is Surfing Day important?

Surfing Day is important because it celebrates more than a sport ; it honors a way of life that depends on a healthy ocean. Surfers feel every shift in tide, every plastic bag in the water, every broken reef. This day is about showing love for the sea through action, not just words.

It’s also a chance to bring people together. Surfers can be from any background, any age, any part of the world. The wave connects them. And on Surfing Day, that connection turns into something bigger: a movement for clean beaches, safe oceans, and shared joy.