Surf Parks & Shootouts: Ride the Wave of Action
Hey wave riders and shutterbugs! The surf scene is buzzing with energy—whether you're hunting barrels or chasing that perfect shot, here are three big developments making waves right now.
First up, the Da Hui Backdoor Shootout is calling all big-wave chargers to Hawaii's North Shore. This legendary contest is where the pros earn their stripes in heavy barrels, with a prize pool that's nothing to sneeze at. The full roster of surfers just dropped, and it's stacked with talent ready to tackle Backdoor's treacherous walls. You can check out the complete lineup over at Yardbarker. Photographers, dust off those long lenses—the action here is pure gold.
Meanwhile, California is celebrating a milestone: the 10th anniversary of Kelly Slater's Surf Ranch. What began as a repurposed water ski run in Lemoore has grown into a surfing revolution, offering flawless waves whenever the mood strikes. Kelly's vision turned a cold December day a decade ago into a new era for the sport, blending tech with soul. You can dive into the history via Noosa Today. For photographers, it's a dream playground—consistency means capturing magic without battling fickle swells.
And on the East Coast, Myrtle Beach is about to level up with a Wavegarden surf park at Broadway at the Beach. The recent rezoning clears the way for a 28-acre surf resort featuring a seven-million-gallon lagoon, plus hotels and lazy rivers. This project promises to be a game-changer for surfers in the Southeast, offering accessible waves year-round. You can read the full scoop at the Post and Courier. Imagine the photo ops—artificial barrels mean endless opportunities to freeze-frame progression.
From backyard wave pools to North Shore showdowns, the surf world is evolving fast. Whether you're paddling out or behind the lens, these stories prove the stoke is alive and kicking. What's surf got you fired up? Share your thoughts in the comments below!