Members of the surf community paddled out at Main Beach to honor Hawaiian princes David Kawananakoa, Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana'ole, and Edward Keliiahonui, who introduced surfing to Santa Cruz in July 1885. The event celebrated the princes' legacy and highlighted the exhibition "Princes of Surf 2025: Heʻe Nalu Santa Cruz" at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History. Replicas of surfboards and iconic members of the surf community participated, showcasing their respect and appreciation for the rich surfing culture that began with the Hawaiian royals.
The three Hawaiian princes brought us the sport of kings - surfing. We are passionate about surfing. Santa Cruz is Surf City and this is where it all started in 1885.
In July 1885, the Hawaiian princes, who were attending Saint Matthew's School in San Mateo, paddled out at the mouth of the San Lorenzo River with olo-style long boards made out of local redwood.
Princes of Surf: Paddle Out at the Rivermouth served as a celebration of the Hawaiian royals' legacy and to highlight the new exhibition at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History.
We want to show our respect and our appreciation for what the Hawaiian princes did and the surfing culture of today.
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