UC San Diego Ranked Top College for Surfing

Surfer Magazine names UC San Diego the #1 school in the U.S. for surfing, thanks to its proximity to world-class waves and robust surfing program.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:04pm

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UC San Diego has been named the top college in the United States for surfing by Surfer Magazine. Located along the La Jolla cliffs and Pacific Ocean, the campus offers students, faculty, and staff easy access to some of the best surfing in the nation. In addition to its prime location, UC San Diego also boasts a comprehensive surfing program through its Recreation department, including an 8-week 'Surfing Fundamentals' course that covers everything from wave science to surf etiquette.

Why it matters

Surfing is deeply ingrained in the culture and identity of UC San Diego, which is known for its strong ties to the ocean. The university's ranking as the top college for surfing in the U.S. further cements its reputation as a hub for ocean-related activities and research, and highlights how the school provides unique opportunities for students to engage with the natural environment surrounding the campus.

The details

UC San Diego's surfing program offers a range of courses and resources for students, from the comprehensive 'Surfing Fundamentals' class that covers everything from wave science to surf safety, to a dedicated UC San Diego surfing team that has won 7 national titles over the past 50 years. The university also has an on-campus Craft Center that offers surfboard shaping classes, allowing students to get hands-on with board-building.

  • Surfer Magazine ranked UC San Diego as the #1 college for surfing in the U.S. this past fall.
  • The UC San Diego surfing team just won its 7th national title last month.

The players

Isaac Laddon

An aerospace engineering major at Warren College who is set to graduate this year and teaches in the UC San Diego surfing program.

Clayton Claiborn

The assistant aquatics director at UC San Diego Recreation, who oversees the university's surfing courses.

Jackie Halberstadt

An international business major at Seventh College who teaches in the UC San Diego surfing program.

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What they’re saying

“Surfing is probably the most difficult sport to learn because it's like 60% the weather and the conditions and 40% your own skill.”

— Isaac Laddon, Surfing Instructor

“Being out in the ocean is such a great experience. My favorite part of class is sharing the energy, the excitement, and the love for the sport.”

— Jackie Halberstadt, Surfing Instructor

What’s next

UC San Diego Recreation plans to continue expanding its surfing program to meet the high demand from students, faculty, and staff interested in learning the sport.

The takeaway

UC San Diego's ranking as the top college for surfing in the U.S. highlights the university's deep connection to the ocean and its commitment to providing unique opportunities for students to engage with the natural environment. The comprehensive surfing program, from academic courses to a competitive team, demonstrates how the school is fostering a vibrant surf culture on campus.