This weekend, a group of adorable pups will take to the waves. Donning lifejackets (and the occasional sunglasses), the dogs hop on surfboards and compete for the championship. On Saturday, August 2, Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica will host the competition, which has become one of the Bay Area’s most beloved events every summer.
The event starts at 9 am on Saturday, with the first dog surfing heats starting at 9:20 am and running until 1:30 pm. If you don’t think your pup is up for the surfing, you can always enter them in the adorable costume contest at noon during the event. Plus, you can bring your dog to a wellness fair offering check-ups, nail trimming, and more during the competition.
Check out the surfing schedule here:
- Small Dog Surfing Heats
- Medium Dog Surfing Heats
- Large Dog Surfing Heats
- Extra Large Dog Surfing Heats
- SUP Heat (Stand Up Paddle)
- Tandem Dogs Surfing Heats
- Tandem Human/Dog Surfing Heats
- Top Dogs Surfing Finals Heats
The World Dog Surfing Championship started almost 20 years ago in 2006, when Kevin Reed asked a San Diego hotel to host a competition. Since then, the event has expanded to other parts of the United States and even Australia.
The competition is just a fun day at the beach; it also helps raise money for local charities, such as Rocket Dog Rescue and Peninsula Humane Society. The two organizations will also host a mobile pet adoption event from 9 am to 2 pm on Saturday. Rocket Dog Rescue is a Bay Area dog rescue, focusing on taking in dogs that come from overcrowded shelters. The Peninsula Humane Society takes in various animals, including dogs and cats, looking for new homes. They also often accept sick or injured animals in need of medical care.
Attendance at the event is free, and whether you think your dog is the next champion or you just want to see the cute dogs on surfboards, it promises to be a fun morning in Pacifica.
🗓️ Date: August 2, 2025 9 am to 2 pm
📍 Location: Lina Mar Beach, Pacifica
🌐 Website: World Dog Surfing Championship