Surfers ride the waves along the California coast year-round, but when the annual Surf Rodeo rolls into town, a colorful crowd of surf cowboys turns the energy up a notch.
Founded by JD Drury, a veteran in the surf, skate and music scenes, Surf Rodeo seeks to return surf competition to its original, laid-back spirit—when fun came first.
This year’s Surf Rodeo, scheduled for July 12–13 at Ventura Pierpont Beach, will showcase offbeat surf contests, a bustling street fair with numerous vendors, bucking bull rides, a kids’ corral, a bikini cowgirl roundup, two beer gardens and two live music stages.
The event also includes live auctions and raffles with proceeds benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Ventura, The Girls Empowerment Workshop and A Walk on Water. Featured prizes this year include a fully restored 1977 two-tone white-and-yellow Volkswagen van and two custom surfboards crafted by pro surfer Dane Reynolds.
Beyond competition, Surf Rodeo emphasizes community and charity while celebrating surf culture’s playful side. Attendees can expect family-friendly activities, food and artisan stalls, and nonstop entertainment from morning through evening. The combination of traditional surf contests and whimsical rodeo-style events creates a unique atmosphere that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
Competitors range from seasoned pros to enthusiastic amateurs, and the event’s informal format encourages creativity in both performance and presentation. With live music stages featuring local bands and DJs, plus beer gardens offering a relaxed place to gather, Surf Rodeo blends sport, music and festival fun into a single weekend.
Organizers design the schedule to keep the action moving on the sand while supporting charitable partners through donation-driven auctions and raffles. Community involvement is central to the event’s mission, and several local nonprofits receive funds and exposure each year.
Families will find plenty to do at the kids’ corral, which offers age-appropriate activities and opportunities for young surf enthusiasts to get involved. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy specialty vendors, surf-themed merchandise and the chance to see rare and vintage surfboards on display.
Surf Rodeo’s unique mix of athleticism, pageantry and goodwill has made it a summer highlight on the Ventura calendar. Whether you come for the waves, the music or the lively festival atmosphere, the event delivers an entertaining and charitable weekend by the sea.
Mark your calendar for July 12–13 and plan to join the fun at Ventura Pierpont Beach, where surf culture meets rodeo flair in a celebration that honors tradition while keeping the emphasis on enjoyment and community support.