Surfrider Foundation’s Fight to Preserve Ventura’s Iconic Break
Surfers’ Point in Ventura, California, has long been a treasured surf spot, known for its accessible waves and unique coastal features. But in recent decades, erosion has threatened the area, putting both the surf break and the surrounding infrastructure at risk. Through dedicated advocacy and collaboration, the Surfrider Foundation played a pivotal role in protecting this iconic stretch of coastline, securing the future of the waves and the beach for generations of surfers to come.
Founded in 1984 by a group of Malibu surfers, the Surfrider Foundation has worked tirelessly to preserve coastal ecosystems and safeguard surf spots worldwide. As part of its ongoing efforts, the foundation highlights key achievements in its campaign to protect surf breaks. Surfers’ Point, one of the most accessible waves in Ventura County, stands as a testament to the power of grassroots activism and community involvement.
The pointbreak at Surfers’ Point is a popular destination for shortboarders, while the stretch south of the point remains a go-to location for longboard enthusiasts. However, the area has faced serious challenges from coastal erosion, which has undermined the stability of both the beach and nearby infrastructure. In 1992, a rock seawall and bike path collapsed into the ocean, endangering public safety and damaging the natural habitat.
In response to this crisis, the Surfrider Foundation’s Ventura Chapter spearheaded efforts to find sustainable, nature-based solutions to combat erosion and preserve the area’s unique features. Surfrider worked in close collaboration with the California Coastal Conservancy, the California Coastal Commission, and the Ventura County Fairgrounds to create the Surfers’ Point Managed Shoreline Retreat Project.
The project was a delicate balancing act, with competing interests regarding the best course of action. Some advocated for the construction of a traditional seawall, while others prioritized the preservation of the surf break and beach ecosystem. After nearly a decade of discussions and negotiations, the managed retreat strategy emerged as the most viable option. This approach would allow for the relocation of infrastructure away from the shoreline, rehabilitate the beach ecosystem, and create a natural buffer to protect the land from future erosion.
The first phase of the project, which involved relocating the bike path and parking lot, was completed in 2011. This was a crucial step in restoring the area’s natural dynamics while ensuring public access to the beach and surf. However, the project’s second phase required significant funding to complete. In June 2023, the California Coastal Conservancy provided a $16.2 million grant, which enabled the relocation of the remaining bike path and parking lot, and the creation of a beach dune habitat. This funding will also help complete the vision for a living shoreline, a sustainable solution that will protect both the surf break and the surrounding environment for the long term.
Today, Surfers’ Point remains a vibrant surf spot, a testament to the successful collaboration between Surfrider, local organizations, and government agencies. The project ensures that the waves at Surfers’ Point will continue to break, and the beach ecosystem will thrive. As Surfrider celebrates four decades of work protecting coastal environments, Surfers’ Point stands as a key example of how proactive, community-led efforts can save surf spots and the natural habitats that support them.
Surfrider’s continued commitment to preserving surf spots underscores the importance of vigilance in coastal conservation. While surf spots like Surfers’ Point are not “saved” permanently, the foundation’s ongoing advocacy ensures that they remain protected and accessible for future generations of surfers.