Riding the Tide: 2026 Lexus US Open of Surfing Kicks Off in Huntington Beach

The 2026 Lexus US Open of Surfing begins in Huntington Beach, featuring elite longboarders, defending champions, and international rookies competing for the world title.

Riding the Tide: 2026 Lexus US Open of Surfing Kicks Off in Huntington Beach

The 2026 Lexus US Open of Surfing has officially returned to the shores of Huntington Beach, California, marking the highly anticipated start of the World Surf League (WSL) Longboard Tour. From July 25 through August 2, the world’s elite longboarders will gather at the iconic pier to compete in what promises to be a display of style, progression, and high-stakes athleticism.

Key takeaways

  • The event serves as the first stop of the four-event 2026/2027 World Longboard Tour.
  • Defending champion Avalon Gall is returning to her home break to defend her 2025 title.
  • Four-time world champion Taylor Jensen is competing for a historic fifth world title.
  • The season concludes in El Sunzal, El Salvador, where the top 12 men and women will battle for the world championship.

A new chapter for the world tour

The 2026 season introduces a fresh format designed to test the consistency and versatility of the world's best surfers. With four stops spanning from California to the Philippines and culminating in El Salvador, the tour aims to crown the ultimate world champion based on total season points. This year’s field is particularly deep, featuring a mix of seasoned legends and hungry newcomers eager to make their mark on the global stage.

Dominance at the Huntington Beach Pier

The opening day of competition saw several heavy hitters assert their dominance in pumping conditions. Four-time WSL Longboard Champion Taylor Jensen delivered a standout performance, showcasing the poise that has made him a legend at this venue. Alongside him, three-time champion Honolua Blomfield impressed with a high-scoring heat, proving that she remains a major threat to the title. Defending champion Avalon Gall also secured her spot in the next round, maintaining her momentum from a career-best 2025 season.

Rising global talent

This year’s event highlights the growing international reach of professional longboarding. Among the standout rookies is Lia Diaz, who has made history as the first-ever Costa Rican qualifier for the Longboard Tour. Her presence, along with competitors like Indonesia’s Dhea Novitasari, underscores the sport’s expanding global footprint. These athletes are not only competing for rankings but are also acting as ambassadors for their home nations, inspiring the next generation of surfers worldwide.

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