U.S. Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
World's longest-running continuous surf competition. A 9-day event hosting WSL Challenger Series stop 2 and the first stop of the World Longboard Tour, on Huntington Beach Pier's south side.
What It Is
The U.S. Open of Surfing is a 9-day professional and amateur surfing championship held at Huntington Beach Pier. It's among the longest-running continuous professional surf competitions in the world. For 2026, the event runs Saturday, July 25 through Sunday, August 2, hosting WSL Challenger Series stop 2 (men's and women's fields) alongside the first stop of the World Longboard Tour. Ownership passed from IMG to MARI in 2025, so expect different sponsor branding than the old Vans era, but the on-sand experience is the same.
Why Go
Watch genuine world-class surfing from the beach. The pier area is accessible to everyone, and you'll see swell management, technique, and risk-taking that casual surfers can't deliver. The Longboard Tour leg adds a different style of competition alongside the Challenger Series shortboard heats.
What To Know Before You Go
The event runs 9 days, not month-long as sometimes reported. Swell is unpredictable; heats can pause for days if waves don't cooperate. Arrive early if you want a good viewing spot near the pier, especially for semifinals and finals. The official event site is south of the Huntington Beach Pier, closest to lifeguard tower 3 (325 PCH). Access: Free general beach access. Some ticketed experiences may exist. Confirm current pricing and any premium options on the official 2026 fan guide before you go. Parking: PCH gridlock is real. Surf City USA traditionally offers a free bike valet during major events. Confirm 2026 bike valet hours and location on the Surf City USA or WSL fan guide before relying on it. Logistics: Seating, food, and item policies (coolers, drones, outgoing food) are set per year by the operator. Confirm the current rules on the official 2026 fan guide before bringing anything you're not sure about.
The Honest Take
Bad swell days mean long waits and mediocre heats. The pier area gets packed during finals, and you're standing in sun for hours with minimal shade. For the iconic free view, south side of the pier looking down into the lineup, arrive early on finals weekend. Bring sunscreen and water, and confirm current item rules before showing up with anything beyond the basics.