Two dogs in life vests riding a surfboard together through a breaking wave.

World Dog Surfing Championships Exhibition Tour in Pismo Beach

World Dog Surfing Championships

The World Dog Surfing Championships Exhibition Tour brings a showcase to Pismo Beach on California’s Central Coast. Watch dog surfers compete at the highest level, cheer on local participants, and soak in a full afternoon of beach fun the whole family will love.

Coming Soon

Future Pismo Beach dates will be announced here

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Dog Surfing at Pismo Beach

What’s Happening

The World Dog Surfing Exhibition Tour features six of the world’s top dog surfing teams, showcasing the sport at its highest level. Watch the pros in featured heats, followed by a final showcase to highlight the best of the best. Between the heats, meet the dogs and check our sponsor activations.

Event Details

  • Location: South side of the Pismo Beach Pier
  • Cost: Free
Where to view dog surfing at Pismo Beach Pier

Join In

Local participants get in on the action, too. Community heats are open to local dogs, giving Pismo Beach its own moment in the spotlight alongside the invited pros. Enter here!

The Surf Dog Village

Browse sponsor tents, connect with local organizations, and learn more about the businesses and groups working to support dogs in our community.

Best Ways to Watch the Action

You’ve got two options: stake out a spot on the beach for an up-close view or head up to the Pismo Beach Pier for a stunning bird’s-eye perspective of the dogs hitting the waves.

Dog Surfing Exhibition
Dog friendly places to stay in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach Is a Dog-Friendly Destination

Pismo Beach is one of the Central Coast’s best destinations for traveling with your pet. The best part is that dogs are allowed on the beach here. Planning to stay the weekend? Many of Pismo Beach’s hotels and lodging options welcome pets so that the whole family can make the trip.

Dogs are not permitted on the Pismo Beach Pier, so stick to watching from the beach if you’re bringing your pup along.

Leash Rules

All dogs attending the event must be kept on leash at all times in compliance with City of Pismo Beach rules. The only exception is for dogs actively competing, who will be off-leash for the duration of their time in the water only.

For peace of mind during your visit, veterinary services are available nearby, including Pismo Beach Veterinary Clinic, Central Coast Pet Hospital and Emergency, and the Animal Hospital of San Luis Obispo.

Dog Surfing Support

Make It a Pismo Weekend

The event runs through the middle of the day, so there’s plenty of time before, after, and the next morning to explore everything Pismo Beach has to offer.

  • Beaches: Pismo Beach has some of the most beautiful stretches of sand, and this season has them wide open, uncrowded, and perfect for a full weekend beach day with your pup.
  • Dog Friendly Dining & Restaurants: Plenty of restaurants in Pismo Beach are happy for you to bring your pup, and many even have menus for them to join the meal. Explore breweries, beachfront seafood, and even upscale dining with the whole family.
  • Stay the Weekend: With hotels that are steps from the sand, Pismo Beach is made for a weekend escape. Book your stay early because rooms do fill up fast for events like this! And if you’re bringing your pup, check out one of the many dog-friendly hotels.

Ready for a Beach Day?

Don’t miss one of the most unique beach days on the Central Coast. Grab a hotel, bring the family (and the dog), and make a weekend of it.

Event FAQs

Is it a free event?

Yes, admission is completely free. Come watch, explore the Surf Dog Village, and enjoy the beach all afternoon at no cost.

Can I bring my dog?

Absolutely, well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. This is a dog event after all! Please follow all local beach rules and clean up after your pup.

How do I enter or exhibit?

To compete or set up as an exhibitor in the Surf Dog Village, contact the World Dog Surfing Championships directly.

Where do I park?

Pismo Beach has public parking lots along the shoreline at the ends of Pomeroy Ave and Addie St. We recommend arriving early since parking fills up quickly on Saturdays. A short walk from downtown or nearby neighborhoods is also a great option.

Lodging Specials & Packages

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