The World Dog Surfing Championships took place on August 5th this year. This is a fun activity for all involved – dogs and humans.
The first Northern California’s World Dog Surfing Championships took place right here at the Linda Mar beach (Pacifica State Beach) in 2016. It has been held here ever since except in 2020 and 2021 when the Covid-19 pandemic forced the postponement of in- person contests. The live, in-person competitions came back in 2022 and was surfing strong again this year.
The weather was misty and cool, a welcome respite from the summer heat. As we drove into Pacifica, fog covered most of the hillside, rolling down into the ocean.
We were very surprised to see that parking spots were filled up so early in the morning! Fortunately, we did find a parking spot not too far off. Next time, Wjp and I should probably get there by 5 am!
Tip: It would be better to bring your own food and drink as it can get very crowded at the nearby cafes and restaurants.
As we approached the beach we saw dogs, surfers, birds and beachgoers aplenty. People were busy socializing as were the dogs. There were smiles everywhere, happy little woofs and yaps all around. A beautiful camaraderie was felt in the common bond that we shared – love of dogs, surfs and a chance to enjoy both together.
While most folks lounged in their beach chairs with picnic baskets spread on blankets, some strolled along the water’s edge with their loved ones. Surfers were doing their thing while pelicans and other water birds bobbed along with the waves.
Pooches of all shapes, sizes, colors and breeds could be seen sprinting towards the water to retrieve a ball or just for the heck of it!
A few pups were bundled up, protected from the chill morning air, while some lay by their humans, calmly content to watch the beach activities.
Finally, it was time for the competition and the crowd edged towards the water to catch a glimpse of the talented four-legged surfers. As the waves came in, no one really cared whether they got wet.
The competition started though the waters were a bit choppy. The dogs are placed in categories according to their sizes.
The dog’s human pal holds onto the board, with the participant on it, gently guiding the board on the water until the right wave comes along. When it does, the board is let go and the dog surfs the wave on his/her own. Judging is done on technique, confidence and how long the competitor can ride the wave.
There were dogs surfing solo, in tandem with other dogs and in tandem with a human.
There was a fun fancy dress competition for the pooches too.
Proceeds from these events go to canine affiliated charities.
Stalls were also set up for vendors, a mobile pet adoption area and a pet wellness area where one could bring their dog or have their pet related questions answered by a vet.
Though we didn’t stay till Yappy Hour, it was a fun filled, thoroughly entertaining happy day.
For those of us who love dogs, this was a lovely way to spend a weekend at the beach. Chairs, blankets, food, water, cool weather, birds, dogs, surfers, water lapping at your ankles, sand beneath your feet and a hot cup of coffee – aaahhh, heaven!
Until next year…
