Santa Cruz Paddlefest 2026 | Surf Kayak Competition Rides

When you're free surfing, you can put everything into chasing that one big move. In competition, it’s a constant balance between wave selection, being dynamic, using the wave well, linking manoeuvres, and making the ride count. You’re always walking a fine line between pushing hard enough to score, but staying controlled enough not to throw the wave away. One mistake can cost you the heat and end your competition early. Here are some of my rides from the 2026 Santa Cruz Paddlefest in Santa Cruz, California. Huge thanks to Alisha Bube for spending several days up on the cliff filming and sharing this footage.