The World Dog Surfing Championships Exhibition Tour Hits the Central Coast
The world’s best dog surfing teams are heading to Pismo Beach, and you can watch them ride the waves for free.
The World Dog Surfing Championships Exhibition Tour makes its Central Coast debut on Saturday, May 2, 2026, bringing competitive dog sports to Pismo Beach for the first time. Six elite dog surfing teams will demonstrate the sport at its highest level from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the north side of the Pismo Beach Pier.
This isn’t just a spectator event. Community heats give local dogs and their owners the chance to compete alongside the pros.
Teams interested in participating can sign up on Eventbrite.
The World Dog Surfing Championships, held annually in Pacifica, California, is the premier competitive dog surfing event in the world. The Exhibition Tour brings the sport to new audiences and new communities across the state.
A final showcase heat highlights the best performances of the day, followed by an informal awards presentation and photo opportunities with the competing dogs. Fan engagement moments and meet-the-dogs interactions run throughout the afternoon.
Beyond the surfing competition, the event includes a dog beach fashion contest and dog adoptions in partnership with local rescue organizations. Surf Dog Village anchors the action just north of the pier, featuring sponsor tents and local organizations working to support dogs in the community.
Spectators can watch from the beach for an up-close view or from the Pismo Beach Pier for a bird’s-eye perspective of the action. Dogs aren’t permitted on the pier, so attendees bringing pets should watch from the beach.
“Pismo Beach has always been a place where dogs are more than welcome; they’re part of what makes this destination so special,” said Gordon Jackson, Executive Director of the Pismo Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau.
“Our beach is leash-friendly, our community loves dogs, and our waves are a perfect fit for this kind of event. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome the World Dog Surfing Championships Exhibition Tour to the Central Coast for the very first time.”
Dogs are welcome on leash at all times per City of Pismo Beach rules, with an exception for competing dogs in the water only.
Pismo Beach sits on California’s iconic Highway 1, offering cliffside ocean views, a walkable downtown and endless outdoor adventure. The dog-friendly beach town provides the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility for pet-friendly travel on the California Central Coast.
The event is free and open to the public. More information is available at Experience Pismo Beach.
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