Want to bask in the after-glow of last weeks US Surfing Championship in Huntington Beach? Go to the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum off Main Street. It's a must see for anyone interested in surfing or surf culture. I remember as a teenager going to the US Surfing Championship where a couple hundred people sat on the beach listening to a single loud speaker narrating the action. Now with thousands of people attending surfing events, the Surfing Museum captures the sport's essence in simpler times. The museum has several exhibits including early pioneers of surfing featuring the man who started it all, Duke Kohanamoku. "The Duke" captivated fans through his Olympic fame to popularize surfing. Past surfing champions both local and international are predominately featured including the current US Surfing champion.
The museum shows the development of the surfboard, featuring a circa 1919 solid wood board illustrating surfboard's progression from it's long board beginnings, with limited maneuverability, to it's modern shorter version which allows tricks.The music section pays homage to music associated with surfing. The Beach Boys, Jan and Dean, and of course Dick Dale, showcasing his original guitar.
There is a fun display featuring sand from beaches all over the world inviting visitors to contribute sand collected.
My favorite exhibit is the continuous running of the iconic surf movie Endless Summer. If aliens came to this planet and wanted to know about it's culture, this movie would be my choice.You cannot watch it and be depressed. Its esoteric premise following surfers while they search for the perfect wave is brilliant in it's simplicity and aesthetics. You are transported into a serene state of being. The fact that the original camera used to film that masterpiece sits in the corner is a thrill.
The Surf Museum is located at 441 Olive Avenue in Huntington Beach. Admission is free. Check the website for day and open times. click here for museum information
