Riding the waves: The US Open of Surfing returns to Huntington Beach

The 2026 US Open of Surfing arrives in Huntington Beach with a packed schedule of professional competition, live music, and community celebrations.

Riding the waves: The US Open of Surfing returns to Huntington Beach

The Lexus US Open of Surfing has officially returned to the shores of Huntington Beach, bringing nine days of world-class competition and coastal festivities. Running from July 25 through August 2, 2026, the event transforms the area south of the pier into a vibrant hub for surf fans and professional athletes alike.

Key takeaways

  • The event runs from July 25 through August 2, 2026, at the Huntington Beach Pier.
  • Competition includes the World Surf League Longboard Tour and the prestigious Challenger Series.
  • Entertainment features live music, food trucks, and athlete meet-and-greets.
  • This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first professional surfing world champion.

Competitive action in the surf

The heart of the event remains the high-stakes competition in the water. The festival kicks off with the World Surf League longboard competition, followed by the highly anticipated Challenger Series. This series serves as a critical stepping stone for surfers aiming to qualify for the elite World Tour. Local favorites, including Huntington Beach native Kanoa Igarashi and defending champion Levi Slawson, are among the many competitors vying for the prestigious title this year. Spectators can expect intense heats as surfers navigate the waves, with organizers noting that potential tropical storms could provide the challenging conditions needed to truly test the athletes' skills.

A festival beyond the waves

Beyond the surfing, the event offers a massive 13-acre festival village on the sand. Attendees can enjoy a variety of activities, including food trucks, sponsor booths, and athlete autograph sessions. For those looking to relax, the festival features a beach bar and lounge areas equipped with large screens to broadcast the ongoing contests. As the sun sets, the event transitions into a concert series, with performances by bands such as Real Estate and Local Natives scheduled for the final weekend. These cultural offerings turn the beach into a gathering place that celebrates the broader surf lifestyle.

Celebrating a milestone

This year’s edition of the US Open carries special significance as it marks the 50th anniversary of the first professional surfing world champion. To honor this milestone, the event will feature a special tribute to Peter "PT" Townend, the inaugural world champion. This celebration highlights the deep history of the sport and the role that Huntington Beach has played in fostering professional surfing over the last half-century. Fans and industry professionals alike will have the opportunity to participate in commemorative events throughout the week, reinforcing the community's connection to its rich surfing heritage.

Tips for attendees

For those planning to visit, arriving early is the best strategy to secure parking near the beach. While beachfront parking lots and metered spots along the Pacific Coast Highway are available, they fill up quickly due to the high volume of visitors. Alternative parking is available at the Main Promenade and the Strand structures, which offer a short walk to the festivities. Visitors are encouraged to check the official event website for the most up-to-date schedules, as programming—including meet-and-greets and film screenings—is subject to change throughout the nine-day event.

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