The Heritage Series — No. 001: Ocean Beach, 1966

In 1966, the world of surfing came to Ocean Beach, San Diego. More than 10,000 spectators gathered along the California coast as surfers from seven nations competed in the World Surfing Championships—the first world championship of its kind ever hosted in the United States. Australia’s Nat Young emerged as the men’s champion, while American Joyce Hoffman claimed the women’s title. More than a contest, Ocean Beach marked a turning point in surfing history, capturing a moment when style, competition, and board design were beginning to change the sport forever. Heritage Series No. 001 remembers that weekend on the sand and the era of surfing that surrounded it.