Surf Shop Day
Every May 17th, surfers from coast to coast wax up their boards and cruise down to their favorite local surf shop to celebrate International Surf Shop Day—a celebration that’s all about the soul of surf culture. These aren’t just places to snag a new board or check out fresh gear, surf shops are the heartbeat of the surf community. From beachside chat to the smell of fresh wax and neoprene, surf shops are where the stoke lives.
Here at Surf Diva, we know firsthand how these local legends shape the surfing lifestyle, sharing the stoke since 1996. As Surf Shop Day 2025 rolls in like a perfect set at sunrise, let’s paddle into what makes these shops so rad—and how we can all keep their wave going strong.
The Essence of Surf Shop Day
Surf shops have always been way more than spots to grab gear. They’re the local hangouts, the community notice boards, the storytellers of wave-riding history. Whether it’s chatting fins and forecasts with your favorite shop crew or discovering your first surfboard that changes your life, a surf shop is where surfing’s magic truly begins.
Surf Diva Surf Shop and Surf School CEO and Co-Founder Izzy Tihanyi says:
“Our surf shop is about the love of surfing and the ocean. We have the stoke of local surfing. We care about our clients and are stoked when they have a great sesh. The online cart doesn’t.”
You won’t get that kind of soul from an online checkout cart. Local surf shops are the pulse of our beachside neighborhoods. They curate not just surfboards and wetsuits, but good vibes, real knowledge, and that one-of-a-kind sense of belonging every surfer craves.
The Role of SIMA and the Surf Industry
Behind the scenes of Surf Shop Day is a crew that keeps the stoke flowing: the Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA). These folks have been championing independent surf retailers for years, and Surf Shop Day is just one of the ways they show the love.
SIMA rallies brands, retailers, and surfers to shine a spotlight on the shops that give our culture its soul. It’s a rad example of the surf industry coming together to preserve what makes our world so special—community, creativity, and connection.
Why Supporting Local Surf Shops Matters
Shopping at big online retailers is convenient, but it doesn’t come close to the vibe of your neighborhood surf shop. These local gems offer more than just surfboards and gear. They deliver real advice from folks who know your break, your style, and your goals. They help newbies get their footing and stoke veterans with the latest tech.
More than that, surf shops are the glue that holds coastal surf communities together. They sponsor local groms, organize beach cleanups, and keep the beachside buzz alive.
Coco Tihanyi, Surf Diva Surf Shop and Surf School President & Co-Owner, puts it perfectly:
“Surf Shop Day is about celebrating the heart and soul of surf culture—our local surf shops. These are the places that not only style us out for the waves, but also connect us to our surf squads and keep the spirit of surfing alive.”
How to Participate in Surf Shop Day
1. Cruise into Your Local Surf Shop
Take a stroll (or skate) to your neighborhood surf shop. Browse the latest boards, try on a fresh wetsuit, chat with the crew, and soak up the stoke.
2. Shop Local Whenever You Can
Think of your local surf shop the next time you’re shopping for gifts—Mother’s Day, graduations, Teacher Appreciation Week, birthdays, or just because. Not sure what to get? Most surf shops, including Surf Diva, offer gift cards (sometimes even online!), making them an awesome alternative to big-box store cards. Support local all year long!
3. Spread the Stoke on Social
Snag a selfie while you shop at your favorite store and tag #SurfShopDay and #Surf Diva to share the love. The more we hype it up, the bigger the wave we all ride together.
Mahalo & Happy Surf Shop Day!
