Catching Waves in Carmel: Why the Annual Surfabout Is the Perfect Early Summer Tradition

As spring turns into summer along California’s Central Coast, one beloved tradition returns to the shores of Carmel Beach - the Annual Carmel Surfabout. Taking place May 30–31, 2026, this longtime local surf competition brings together surfers, families, visitors and longtime locals for a weekend full of waves, community and laid-back coastal energy. Starting around 7 a.m. each morning, competitors paddle out into Carmel’s famously cold Pacific waters while spectators line the white sand beach to cheer them on. But what makes the Surfabout so special isn’t just the surfing, it’s the history behind it.

A Tradition More Than 40 Years Strong

Founded in 1980 by local surf shop owners Brad Johnson and Tom Knight of Sunshine Freestyle, the Surfabout was originally created to unite Monterey County’s smaller surf communities for one weekend each year. More than four decades later, it’s still going strong. Unlike many modern surf competitions filled with heavy sponsorships and massive crowds, the Carmel Surfabout has remained deeply local and community-driven. For many Monterey Peninsula surfers, it’s less about winning and more about reconnecting with friends, families and generations of surfers who’ve grown up along this coastline.

Fun Facts & Interesting History About the Carmel Surfabout

It’s One of the Longest-Running Local Surf Competitions on the Central Coast – The Surfabout has been held annually since 1980, making it one of the region’s longest-standing surf traditions.

The Event Includes More Than Just Surfing – While shortboard heats are a major draw, the event also features longboarding and long-distance paddle competitions, creating an “all-around waterman” style event that celebrates multiple ocean disciplines.

Some Local Legends Have Dominated the Event – Several surfers have built serious reputations at the Surfabout over the years. Craig Cox became one of the event’s standout names during the 1990s, winning multiple all-around titles throughout the decade. More recently, Dane Anderson has become one of the event’s modern-era standouts with back-to-back wins in recent years.

The Competition Is Famous for Tough Conditions – Carmel Beach is beautiful, but it’s no easy wave. The beach is known for strong shore breaks, unpredictable conditions, and cold water temperatures year-round. Winning at Carmel often requires adaptability as conditions can completely change throughout the day.

It’s Always Been About Community First - One thing longtime attendees love about the Surfabout is how grassroots it still feels. Competitors range from experienced local surfers to younger up-and-coming talent surfing in front of hometown crowds for the first time. In fact, many local surfers describe the event more like a giant family reunion than a competition.

The Event Helps Support Local Causes - Today, the Carmel Surfabout is organized by the Monterey County Surfers Foundation, a nonprofit that gives back to local organizations and community programs throughout Monterey County.

What to Expect This Year

The weekend atmosphere is relaxed, energetic and incredibly scenic. Mornings usually begin with cool fog rolling over the beach before the sun breaks through later in the day. Spectators gather with beach chairs, coffee, coolers and cameras while surfers compete just offshore. And because the event is free to attend, it’s become a favorite weekend tradition not just for surfers, but for families, photographers, beachgoers and visitors looking to experience Carmel’s surf culture firsthand.

The Perfect Kickoff to Summer

For many locals, the Carmel Surfabout unofficially marks the beginning of summer on the Monterey Peninsula. It captures everything people love about the California coast - surfing, community, ocean air, and a slower pace of life. Whether you’re there to watch the competition, reconnect with friends, or simply spend a weekend by the ocean, the Carmel Surfabout remains one of the Central Coast’s most authentic and beloved traditions.