Surfing in Virginia Beach

East Coast Surfing Championships and Other Contests

In the century that has followed since James’ first ride, surf culture has woven itself into the very fabric of Virginia Beach. We’re proud to host the esteemed Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships (ECSC): the longest continuously-running surf contest in the world. The best of the best compete at ECSC, including more than 200 of the world’s top professional male and female surfers, and an estimated 300 amateur surfers. The annual competition is thrilling to watch and is accompanied by food, drink, live music and next-level people-watching.

For a quirkier, more localized glimpse of East Coast surf culture, you’ll want to check out the Oceanfront Surf Festival: a multi-day gathering in celebration of surfing, music and good vibes. Its colorful centerpiece is an event called Logstradamus, a costumed aquatic anti-contest focused on art, expression and camaraderie rather than formal judging. Think Burning Man — but smaller, wetter and way more chill.

Surf Shops and Rentals

1963 was an important year for Virginia Beach surf culture. In addition to the founding of the East Coast Surfing Championships, it also marked the opening of Smith & Holland Surf Shop — the first of many such shops to come — by two local surfing legends. A few years later, another hometown shredder, Bob White, put out his own shingle; today, his Wave Riding Vehicles (WRV) remains one of the top surfboard manufacturers on the East Coast.

Over the years, our selection of surf shops has expanded to include purveyors like Coastal Edge, 17th Street Surf Shop, Surf & Adventure Co., Pungo Board House, VB Surf Sessions and others. Together, they offer everything from killer surf duds and other essential gear to equipment rentals, lessons and camps. You’ll be popping up and trimmed out in no time. 

And, should you fall hopelessly in love with the sport (which we must admit is almost certainly a done deal), Make and Ride Surf Exchange has got a unique proposition for you. Under the tutelage of an experienced shaper, you can handcraft your very own custom surfboard — guiding every essential decision, from nose to tail and everything in between.