On June 21, 2025, chapters across the Southeast region took part in the celebration of the 21st annual International Surfing Day.
Started in 2005, International Surfing Day (ISD) is an international celebration of the love of surfing for all people to enjoy. The day was established by the Surfrider Foundation and partners to raise awareness and support for our world’s beaches and coastal environments.
Now in its 21st year, ISD has grown into the largest global activation for Surfrider each year.
Over the years, ISD event locations have included Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada, France, the UK, Argentina, Japan, and thousands of events in the United States!
This year proved to be no different, with multiple events held across the region highlighting the joy and community that surfing brings.
Up in the Outer Banks, folks gathered at their public beach access in Nags Head and celebrated the return of the chapter with surfing, sun, and hot dogs!
Down the coast a bit, Bogue Banks took part in some early morning yoga and surf sessions with folks across the community.
In Cape Fear and in Charleston, novice surfers were able to give the sport a shot with free lessons from Sweetwater Surf School and Warrior Surf Foundation. Even our friends at ABC News 4 in Charleston got in the water to ride some waves!
Of course, there's always a way to give back as well. Charleston and Cape Fear were able to combine early morning beach cleanups with their events, as a way for folks to care for the beaches before catching some waves.
All in all, International Surfing Day is a day to celebrate, to get together with folks in your community, and hop in the water and enjoy. We're already looking forward to 2026!
📷 Photo credit: Blake Schieffer
