Researchers analyzing dozens of renowned surf breaks across world surfing reserves have found that the majority face significant threats from climate-related changes and coastal engineering projects. The study examined 57 surf breaks located across 13 world surfing reserves in eight countries, drawing on input from nearly 200 local experts and surfers familiar with these waves.
The research identifies specific breaks at elevated risk, including Croyde beach in Devon, point breaks at Noosa in Australia and El Salvador, and several California reef breaks. According to the authors, surf breaks depend on precise combinations of seafloor topography, swell patterns, and tidal conditions that can be disrupted by rising ocean levels and altered sediment movement caused by global warming. Coastal infrastructure such as sea walls, jetties, and groynes reduce the ability of beaches and waves to adapt to these changes, whereas more natural coastlines can shift and relocate sediments more effectively.
The economic implications extend beyond recreational concerns. Surfing generates substantial revenue for communities that often lack alternative economic drivers. Santa Cruz derives approximately $200 million annually from surfing-related activities, while parts of El Salvador depend heavily on perfect point break waves for their economies. Local surfers and communities stand to lose culturally significant locations alongside crucial income sources.
Researchers emphasize that local surfer expertise could play a vital role in protection efforts. Some jurisdictions have already implemented safeguards, including Gold Coast’s inclusion of surf protection in planning regulations, New Zealand’s designation of nationally significant breaks, and Peru’s law protecting listed surf breaks. The study calls for expanding such approaches globally, enabling local communities to work with authorities to shield waves from both coastal development and climate impacts while preserving the economies and cultures dependent on them.
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