Discovering Texas: The Underrated Surf Culture

Texas, often overlooked for its surf potential, boasts an impressive coastline of 367 miles (591 kilometers) along the Gulf of Mexico. This region picks up considerable swells, especially during post-summer hurricanes, making it an emerging hub for surfing. While states like California and Hawaii dominate surfing fame, Texas holds its own with vibrant spots like South Padre Island, Corpus Christi, and Galveston, often hailed as the main surfing capitals of the state. If you’re looking for hidden gems in surf culture, Texas should be on your radar.

History of Surfing in Texas

The surfing scene in Texas has a rich history that dates back to the 1930s when Italian-born lifeguard Leroy Colombo introduced this wave-riding activity to the area. By the 1970s, a passionate surfing community had formed along the Galveston Bay, riding the waves created by tanker wakes. Local legends like Dorian "Doc" Paskowitz, Ken Bradshaw, and Debbie Beacham, the 1982 women’s world champion, have contributed to Texas’s surf culture. The Lone Star State is not just about traditional surfing; it is home to innovations like the first FlowRider surf machine, which opened in New Braunfels in 1991, and the renowned NLand Surf Park in Austin, Canada’s first wave pool installment.

The Wave Pool Experience

Before the internet made wave pools a staple in surfing culture, Texas tried its hand at creating artificial waves. In 1985, Water Park USA opened near San Antonio, featuring a surf basin and a variety of attractions. This facility generated 2.5-foot waves, which, while small compared to ocean swells, were significant for aspiring surfers. The park quickly became a focal point for Texas surfers and hosted competitions, including the Texas Surfing Association (TSA) and National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) events.

Kelly Slater’s Impact

A key moment showcasing Texas’s wave pool history was when surfing prodigy Kelly Slater, then just 14 years old, participated in an exhibition at Water Park USA. Sponsored by the iconic brand Sundek, Slater’s experience at the wave pool was crucial for his early career, allowing him to make an impression on a new audience. His encounters in the pool, described in his book "Pipe Dreams," painted the picture of Texan surf culture back in the day. He noted, “Not many people in that part of Texas had ever seen someone ride a surfboard, so fortunately it wasn’t that hard to make an impression.”

The Family Legacy

Water Park USA held numerous competitions, including a notable event in 1987 that crowned Will Church as champion amidst its consistent yet predictable waves. The popularity of the park made it an integral part of Texas’s surfing backyard, allowing many young surfers their first taste of wave riding. However, the wave pool eventually lost its allure, and in 2021, it closed to make way for a car dealership, marking the end of an era. Nonetheless, the memories etched at the Wild Wave Pool remain alive in the minds of many who grew up there.

A Bright Future for Surfing in Texas

Despite its past closures, Texas’s surf culture continues to thrive. Surfers and enthusiasts can explore surf shops, schools, and museums dedicated to this evolving sport. The Texas Surf Museum stands as a testament to the community’s deep-rooted love for surfing, while events and competitions keep the culture vibrant. Moreover, with the advent of advanced wave technology and facilities like NLand, the future looks promising for this underrated surf scene.

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