Save The Waves Coalition warns that climate change is already impacting California's coastlines, threatening both the cultural and economic significance of surfing, especially in Santa Cruz.

A recent study estimates that surfing contributes approximately $194.7 million annually to Santa Cruz's economy, driven by over 783,000 surf visits each year.

Beginning in May 2023, researchers assessed 31 surf breaks in Santa Cruz, working with local experts and community members to evaluate their vulnerability to sea level rise.

Analysis shows that even a 1-foot sea level rise will decrease surfability at all 31 breaks, and a 3-foot rise could render over half of them unusable, risking a $34.5 million annual economic loss.

Without adaptation measures, many surf spots could become unusable as sea levels rise, threatening the region's surfing culture and economy.

The report advocates for nature-based adaptation strategies like sand management and managed retreat, which are more effective long-term solutions than hard infrastructure.

Potential adaptation strategies such as managed retreat, sand management, and seawalls are discussed as ways to preserve surf breaks and mitigate economic losses.

Policy recommendations emphasize integrating surf break protection into climate adaptation strategies at local and state levels, urging immediate governmental action.

The report stresses the importance of embedding surf ecosystems into policy frameworks to prevent natural capital loss and ensure equitable access for all communities.

Community involvement, especially from marginalized groups, is prioritized to address access barriers and social dynamics affecting equitable participation in surfing.

On average, each surf trip is valued at $56.82, with about 313,901 individuals making over 783,000 surf visits annually, highlighting the economic importance of surfing.