The Surfing Renaissance of
Jordy Smith
Photo WSL / Aaron Hughes
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FREE PARKING
Bryan Perez has been making his way over the slippery, barnacle covered rocks at Punta Roca since he was a small kid. Being a life long local at one of the funnest waves on the planet pays natural dividends.
Photo @surfcity / Sivar Films
EDITORIAL
Editor / Publisher
Mike Latronic
Photo Director
Brian Bielmann
Art Director
John Weaver
Distribution & Advertising Inquiries
Mike Latronic mlatronic808@gmail.com
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Hawaii Distribution & Sales
Keola Latronic keolalatronic808@gmail.com
West Coast Distribution & Sales
Chuck Hendsch (619) 227-9128
Staff Shooters
Brent Bielmann, Mike Latronic, John Weaver
Staff Writer
Kaea Latronic
Contributing Writers
Tor Johnson, Alexandra Kahn, Daniel Ikaika Ito, Nicole Nason, Amanda Blackwell
Contributing Photographers
Christa Funk, Ryan “Chachi” Craig, Dooma Photos, Dayanidhi Das, Erik Aeder, Mark Rodrigues, Aaron Lynton, Kurt Steinmetz, Mike Ito, Tommy Pierucki, Sean Evans, Stu Soley, Tai Vandyke, Mitch McEwen, Sivar Films, Humanocine, Feistan Rivera, Samuel Rivera
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Photo Mike Latronic
Firefly - small wave groveler
EDITOR'S NOTE
By Mike Latronic
For decades the Central American nation of El Salvador has harbored some of the most well sculpted waves on the planet and today El Salvador has staked a slice of its identity on making sure that fact is known. The coastline provides a natural resource to offer to the world and the country’s Surf City initiative vitalizes this. How good is it? This would be my third visit to El Salvador and this time, I only bought a one way ticket.
I timed my jaunt to arrive the week before the WSL Punta Roca Pro. The best surfers on the planet would be free surfing and I was stoked to document the action. Fittingly, we highlight Jordy Smith, a living icon of power surfing and also the champion of the event. More than a contest win, it was a reaffirmation of power surfing.
Just up the coast at El Sunzal, the ISA World Longboard Championship brought a different rhythm. At this location it was all about graceful, flowing lines and timeless style. I also had the chance to experience Surf City from a unique lens, both in and out of the water. I traveled with several dedicated Southern California surfers who offered honest perspectives on the El Salvador surf experience. We found a coastline filled with opportunity, surf that stayed 4-8’ the whole time and a surf culture that is writing its next chapter with promise and pride.
For our youth profile we have eleven-year-old Zoee Bradshaw. She is turning heads in competition but also in massive surf over 15’! Zoee recently qualified to surf in the ISA for the under 16 division representing the Hawai’i junior surf team.
Another feature article is the perennial Local Motion Surf Into Summer, presented by AVVA. Waves were firing and so were the boys and girls. Enjoy.
Mike Latronic Publisher, Freesurf
Magazine
Photo Jon Rivera
surf into'25 summer
By Mike Latronic
Summer has officially kicked off in the islands. School is out and the southern hemisphere is actively pulsing with swell. And right on cue, one of Hawai’i’s most anticipated amateur surf contests returned in full force: the Local Motion Surf Into Summer presented by AVVA Brand. This perennial favorite, hosted at Ala Moana Bowls, once again delivered the goods.
Tia Blanco
Photo Mike Latronic
A proper south swell greeted contestants on opening day, transforming “The Bowl” into a high-performance arena with long rippable walls. For many competitors, especially those flying in from the outer islands, this was the golden opportunity they had been training for all year. The wave itself is a dream, arguably one of the best in the Pacific during a solid south.
On the beach, the vibe was classic Hawai’i summertime. Families posted up under tents, teammates and coaches swapped tips between heats, and the event area buzzed with activity.
Ezra Clark
Photo Keale Lemos
Julian Williams
Photo Mike Latronic
Kiki Takako Oshiro-Kaneshiro
Photo J Weaver
Palikū Victorino Photo Keale Lemos
Diego Santos Photo Keale Lemos
Noah Seibel
Photo Mike Latronic
Liam Wilson
Photo J Weaver
Surf Into Summer has long been a proving ground for the next generation of Hawai’i’s top talent. From rising groms to hungry teens and determined adults, the event offers divisions for nearly every age and includes longboarding as well as shortboarding. Making the finals is a badge of honor; winning it all puts your name on the radar and earns some serious coconut wireless bragging rights.
Inti Gutierrez
Photo Keale Lemos
Kaiya Oliva
Photo Mike Latronic
LOCAL MOTION SURF INTO SUMMER
Finalists, per usual, didn't walk away empty-handed. Each received an impressive goodie bag stacked with gear, accessories, and exclusive items from Local Motion and AVVA Brand and a list of others not to mention some slick trophies to commemorate the moment.
Jamba Juice!
Kahlil Piñeres Schooley
Photo Keale Lemos
Photo Keale Lemos Raffle winner
Matthew Vasquez Photo Mike Latronic
FLAGSHIP BOARDSHORT
benji Brand
SCAN TO SHOP
Jamba Juice was on hand all weekend long, keeping the crowd cool and energized with free smoothie giveaways—a pleasant bonus under the blazing sun. Whether you were a frothing grom fresh out of your heat or a parent cheering from the sidelines, those ice-cold blends hit the spot. In addition, daily raffle giveaways kept the stoke high with surf gear, apparel, and accessories being handed out to lucky ticket holders throughout the event. One lucky person walked away with a brand new Local Motion board!
If you like the sound of that, and pumping Bowls with only a few guys or gals in the water, then sign up early next year! See you then!
Photo Sabrina Weaver
Kai Martin
Photo Keale Lemos
Merrik Mochkatel
Photo Keale Lemos
MENEHUNE S.B. (11 & Under)
1 Keahi Lee
2 Dominic Carvalho
3 Rowan Nixon
4 Rowan Cava
5 Jojo Cinco
6 vJaxon Peters
BOYS S.B. (12 - 14)
1 Merrik Mochkatel
2 Kona Abubo
4 Hayden Flores
4 Kea Moody
5 Ian Moody
JUNIOR MEN S.B. (15 - 17)
1 Kahlil Pineres Schooley
2 Inti Gutierrez
3 Joe Shirota
4 Tiger Abubo
5 Kielan Jardini
6 Kaiano Costa
MEN’S S.B. (18 - 24)
1 Liam Wilson
2 Kai Martin
3 Ezra Clark
4 Lua Silveria
5 Nakula Harvey
6 Matteus Santos
MASTER S.B. (25 - 34)
1 Julio Cardoso
2 Gen Asano
3 Philippe Chagas
4 Paliku Victorino
5 Raul Reis
6 Ash Marzouki
SENIOR MEN S.B. (35 & Up)
1 Diego Santos
2 Noah Myers
3 Gavin Sutherland
4 Aaron Witt
5 Diego Vilela
6 Dillon Murphy Sr.
GIRLS S.B. (17 & Under)
1 Skai Suitt
2 Chesney Guinotte
3 U’ilani Nakao
4 Kenzi Nakamura
5 Elliana Schiffner
6 Mahina Hailstones
WOMEN’S S.B. (18 & Up)
1 Tia Blanco
2 Renee Martin
3 Missy Valdez
4 Hana Harrison
5 Ellie Brown
6 Alyssa Wooten
LONGBOARD WOMEN (Open)
1 Kaiya Oliva
2 Hanae Rose
3 Sheadyn Friel
4 5 Kaya Pestana
6 Joie Kaiu
7 Hana Makita
LONGBOARD MEN (Open)
1 Gabriel Nascimento
2 Kaimana Domen
3 Shane Stedman
4 Caleb Valero
5 Eizen Grace
6 Matthew Vasquez
Photo J Weaver
POWER TRIP AT Punta Roca
By Mike Latronic
As a publisher based in Hawai’i I’m no stranger to witnessing the world’s best surfers perform at the highest level. The North Shore has long been the global proving ground where reputations are made and broken. Springtime is typically awesome for surfing in Hawai’i, but this year, I took a detour from the usual arena and found myself in El Salvador—just days before the Surf City El Salvador Pro kicked off at Punta Roca. What I witnessed was nothing short of elite.
With long, roping right-hand walls and the potential for speed, power, and tube riding, Punta Roca is easily one of the most high-performance waves on the planet. The wave breaks over cobblestone and lava reef, drawing comparisons to Jeffreys Bay for its pace and form—but with a tropical, Central American twist. Its long sections provide ample canvas for railwork, airs, and tubes, all within arm’s reach of a palm-lined shore buzzing with energy from locals and visiting surf enthusiasts. As the world's top surfers arrived early to warm up, I had the unique chance to document the action—no horns, no judges, no jerseys, just raw performance. This was surfing at its purest.
Jordy Smith, the event winner was a standout in every sense. Jordy’s approach was methodical, mature, and forceful—reminding everyone why he’s remained a threat for more than a few decades on tour.
Photo
Mike Latronic
Samuel Pupo was energized and electric, turning on the high beams for all to enjoy. Photo Mike Latronic
Gabriela Bryan
Photo Mike Latronic
Luana Silva
Photo Mike Latronic
Isabella Nichols
Photo Mike Latronic
Bettylou Sakura Johnson and Gabriela Bryan (opposite top) were absolutely lighting it up. Gabriela’s power repetoire earned legitimate respect. Bettylou, meanwhile, showed a confident mix of flow, spice and explosiveness.
Photo Mike Latronic
When it comes to speed, power and flow, Ethan Ewing is one of the best in the business.
Photo Mike Latronic
Jordy Smith
Photo Sivar Films
Griffin Colapinto
Photo Mike Latronic
Alejo Muniz
Photo Mike Latronic
Sawyer Lindblad
Photo Sivar Films
Marco Mignot approached Punta Roca with youthful vigor, an artist’s eye and confidence. Photo Mike Latronic
Italo Ferreira Photos Mike Latronic
Crosby Colapinto
Bryan Perez El Salvador’s hometown hero, brought fire to every wave. He channeled years of local knowledge into stylish, fluid lines that blended seamlessly with the power and rhythm of Punta
Roca.
Photo @surfcity / Sivar Films
Jack Robinson walks the earth somewhere between air bender, flow guru and good ole Aussie bloke. Add ocean waves and Jack becomes, "The Shaman." Photo Mike Latronic
Surf Trip 101
El Salvador Delivers
By Mike Latronic
Malia Ward, wayward adventurer
If there’s one place redefining what a surf trip should be, it’s El Salvador. With machine-like point breaks, warm water, and deeply rooted surf culture, this Central American jewel is firing on all cylinders. Whether chasing world titles or just chasing stoke, El Salvador is proving to be a top-tier destination for surfers of every stripe.
As you might’ve picked up from earlier in this mag, I recently traveled to El Salvador as a journalist and media producer to cover the world-class free surfing that went down during the waiting period for the Surf City El Salvador Pro at Punta Roca. This wasn’t just another contest—this was an elite performance paired with a perfect canvas for progressive surfing.
A few weeks later, the show shifted to El Sunzal for the ISA World Longboard Championship, and the vibe transformed. Where Punta Roca was raw octane, El Sunzal Mike Latronic, Mike Estrada and Malia Ward
View from Mira Surf Hotel
Photo Mike Estrada
Amado
Photo Mike Latronic
Surf Trip 101
Rogelio Esquievel Jr.
Photo Mike Latronic
was timeless grace—long, playful rights that begged for style, poise, and technical nuance. Watching the world’s top longboarders carve these lines reminded me that surfing is an art, not just a sport.
But the real magic? That came during the final stretch of my trip. The pros flew out and the everyday rippers took over. I brought along two solid surfers from Southern California—Mike Estrada and Malia Ward—not to chase trophies, but to see what a surf mission here feels like for the rest of us normal earthlings. Let’s call it the Surf Trip 101 Experiment.
My basecamp was first at Papaya Surf Garden and next, Mira Surf. Both are lovely beachside hotelsl with access to several breaks, amazing local cuisine, and tropical charm. From there, we explored El Tunco’s lively cobbled streets, hit waves like La Bocana, Sunzal, and La Bocanita, and surfed every single day of our stay. It was, in a word, effortless.
Jimmy Rotherham and Mike Estrada
Estrada captured it perfectly:
“The travel experience getting here was super easy. We took a direct flight from L.A., and boom—we’re in the zone. Everything’s right here: the food, the waves, the vibe. If you want to explore more, a short ride north or south gets you into another perfect setup. It’s shockingly convenient.”
And that’s no accident. The Surf City initiative—El Salvador’s national tourism revamp—has modernized infrastructure, improved roads, boosted beach safety, and poured fresh energy into surf culture. Nowhere is that more evident than in La Libertad, where smooth highways, Wi-Fi-ready cafés, boutique hotels, and friendly locals make surf travel seamless. The airport is just 45 minutes from the coast, and once you arrive, dozens of consistent points and beach breaks are yours to choose from.
“Most people don’t want to burn three days traveling just to score,” said Estrada. “With El Salvador, you get in, you settle, and you surf. Compared to other destinations I’ve been to, this ranks top three—easily. For consistency, access, good food, warm water, and friendly people… this place is firing.”
Photo @surfcity / Sivar Films
Consistency is key—and El Salvador delivers in spades.
“I’ve been in and out of El Salvador for the last two months and haven’t seen it drop below three feet,” I said to Malia one evening. “It gets two-to-four, four-to-six, six-to-eight, then dips back and cycles again. Even on the rare slow days, there’s always somewhere firing. If you want to surf daily, this is the place.”
Even when tropical rain rolls through overnight, mornings reset with glassy offshore winds and blue skies—a freakishly reliable pattern. As Malia put it:
“The first two days were a perfect warm-up—Sunzal, La Bocana—it’s just so fun here. Even when it’s small, there are still good waves, and the warm water just makes everything better.”
She added,
“Getting here was easier than going to Hawaiʻi. I hopped on a plane, watched a movie, listened to music, and suddenly we were descending. Five hours, direct flight— done.”
Malia Ward
Photo Jon Rivera
Mike Latronic
Photo Jon Rivera
Mike Estrada
Photo
Edouard Delpero
Photo Mike Latronic
Augustin Cedeno
Photo Mike Latronic
David Elecciri has beats and melodies flowing through his veins. As lead guitarist of the legendary reggae band Steel Pulse, “David Electric” is in a constant state of rhythmic flow and on most good days at Lower Trestles San Clemente you can find David seeking more flow in the line up with his crew, who just happens to be the Cola bros and other top performers in the area.
The musician timed a surf trip to El Salvador to witness the WSL event and cheer on his San Clemente crew. While there Dave wrote and produced a song called “Punta Roca.” This was an instant hit as heard on the WSL webcast and is sure to be the anthem of many a surfer who experiences this wonderful wave! To hear the tune visit @ david.electric
David " Electric" Elecciri
Photo Mike Latronic
Photo Samuel Rivera
Julissa Castillio
Photo Mike Latronic
Photo SA / Pablo Franco
Photo SA / Pablo Franco
El Sunzal is truly one of the most playful and friendly waves on the planet. It also rolls and peels for about 150-200 yards on average. Henry Salinas is a consummate local and surf instructor and one of the best longboarders in El
Salvador. Photo Mike Latronic
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Ward, who’d visited El Salvador more than a decade earlier, recalled the contrast vividly:
“The first time I came, I wasn’t doing big turns yet, but I remember Punta Roca—it was thrilling. Back then, it was sketchy. Now? It's night and day. The locals are kind, stores are open, the streets are safe. It feels like a mini-Bali with Central American aloha.”
Indeed, safety is one of the most notable changes in recent years. Once considered risky, El Salvador has undergone a transformation.
“Fifteen years ago, it had a completely different vibration,” said Estrada. “Now, it's become one of the safest countries to travel in Latin America. You can feel it—locals are relaxed, welcoming, and genuinely stoked. It’s that aloha spirit—Central American style.”
Surf City truly caters to all: pro-level surfers dialing in contest boards, passionate travelers revisiting the dream, or first-timers chasing their best session yet. The breaks are real. The culture’s alive. And the welcome is warm. If you’re looking for your next surf mission, consider this your green light. Whether you’re aiming to push performance or simply reconnect with the joy of travel, El Salvador is ready. This isn’t just another stamp in your passport. This is Surf Trip 101. And class is most definitely in session.
Model Selah Lipman Photo Kristin Lipman
JORDY SMITH
Power, Poise, and the Long Game
By Mike Latronic
Jordy Smith
Photo Brian Bielmann
Photos Brian Bielmann
For nearly two decades, Jordy Smith has been a towering presence, literally and figuratively on the world surfing stage. Born and raised in Durban, South Africa, Jordy emerged from the highly competitive South African surf scene with a blend of raw power and technical flair that quickly caught the world's attention. At 6'3", his size sets him apart from most of the featherweight flyers on tour, but it’s his ability to combine that power with finesse—lofty airs, tight rail work, and calculated tube riding—that has kept him at the elite level for so long.
Jordy Smith Photo Brian Bielmann
Smith joined the World Championship Tour (WCT) in 2008 and was immediately tagged as a world title threat. His early years were marked by explosive performances and near misses, most notably in 2010 and 2016 when he finished runner-up to Kelly Slater and John John Florence, respectively. Despite not yet claiming an official world title, Jordy has consistently remained a top-tier competitor, known for his adaptability in all conditions—from the heaving walls of Margaret River to the mechanical perfection of J-Bay, where he’s won twice in front of his home crowd.
Jordy Smith Photo Brian Bielmann
What makes his 2025 campaign particularly compelling is his age and evolution. At 37, he's one of the oldest competitors on tour, yet he currently leads by nearly 5,000 points, an impressive gap against a new generation of hyper-athletic, lightning-fast surfers. Rather than being left behind by the sport’s progression, Smith has leaned into his strengths: powerful rail surfing, strategic heat management, and a deep well of experience. His surfing today is arguably more refined and dangerous than ever before.
Jordy’s current surge isn't just a resurgence, it’s a masterclass in longevity and reinvention. He’s healthy, confident, and surfing with the kind of freedom and purpose that suggests he knows this could be his defining year. For a surfer long considered the best never to win a title, 2025 is shaping up to be the chapter where that changes. Whether he hoists the trophy or not, Jordy Smith is proving that power surfing and perseverance still matter in the modern era.
Smith joined the World Championship Tour (WCT) in 2008 and was immediately tagged as a world title threat. His early years were marked by explosive performances and near misses, most notably in 2010 and 2016 when he finished runner-up to Kelly Slater and John John Florence, respectively. Despite not yet claiming an official world title, Jordy has consistently remained a top-tier competitor, known for his adaptability in all conditions—from the heaving walls of Margaret River to the mechanical perfection of J-Bay, where he’s won twice in front of his home crowd.
What makes his 2025 campaign particularly compelling is his age and evolution. At 37, he's one of the oldest competitors on tour, yet he currently leads by nearly 5,000 points, an impressive gap against a new generation of hyper-athletic, lightning-fast surfers. Rather than being left behind by the sport’s progression, Smith has leaned into his strengths: powerful rail surfing, strategic heat management, and a deep well of experience. His surfing today is arguably more refined and dangerous than ever before.
Jordy’s current surge isn't just a resurgence, it’s a masterclass in longevity and reinvention. He’s healthy, confident, and surfing with the kind of freedom and purpose that suggests he knows this could be his defining year. For a surfer long considered the best never to win a title, 2025 is shaping up to be the chapter where that changes. Whether he hoists the trophy or not, Jordy Smith is proving that power surfing and perseverance still matter in the modern era.
Jordy Smith Photo Sivar Films
ZOEE Bradshaw
By Kaea Latronic
At just eleven years old Zoee Bradshaw is consistently and rapidly carving out a top spot amongst her peers and even athletes several years older. Her dedication and fun-loving attitude winks knowingly at a promising future in surfing. From her 10-point ride in 2022 at Coffs Harbor, Australia, to her third place NSSA ranking in the Hawai’i Open Mini-Grom Girls’ division, she more than earned her spot on the Hawai’i Surf Team for the 2025 ISA Junior World Championships. Daughter of Australian-born surfer Amanda and big-wave legend and coach, Ken Bradshaw, we caught up with Zoee after a session at Rockies, still bubbly and stoked from the froth.
Zoee Bradshaw towed in by Dad, Ken. Photo Mike Latronic
Q: On a typical fun day, how many times do you actually surf?
A: I usually surf two times a day, sometimes three.
Q: Let’s talk about Rocky Point. I always thought it was make or break—either the best session or the worst.
A: Yeah, most of the time it’s really fun. I like Rockies a lot. Sometimes I have a bad session out there, but most of the time it’s super fun.
Q: Where’s your favorite surf spot here in Hawai’i? And what about anywhere else in the world?
A: Here in Hawaiʻi, definitely Rockies. It’s just so fun—long rights and lefts, they’re so good. Anywhere in the world, probably Rifles in Indo. It’s a perfect right.
Q: How old were you when you started surfing? Do you remember your first wave?
A: I don’t remember my very first wave, but I do remember one when I was about eight. That’s probably the first wave I really remember. I got a sick one and I was so happy.
Q: Do you remember your last wave?
A: Yeah, today. It was really fun. I got a few good ones.
Q: How old were you when you surfed your first outer reef or big wave spot?
A: I think I went out when I was seven or eight. I started towing in flat water when I was five or six. My first big wave was probably at Phantoms when I was eight—about 10 to 12 feet.
Q: What’s the deal with Indo? You guys seem to go a lot.
A: Yeah, we do. I stay on ‘Oahu for about seven months of the year, and we travel around Indo for the rest of the year.
Q: What’s the biggest wave you’ve surfed?
A: My dad takes me out on a jet ski. I’ve surfed some big waves then, and it definitely makes the bigger waves here feel smaller—less scary.
Q: And recently you had a big day out? It was over 15”!
A: Yeah, it was crazy fun. Scary and fun at the same time. Not the best day, but still really good.
Q: Your life seems to revolve around surfing—traveling, living on the North Shore, being homeschooled. Is that by choice?
A: Yeah, definitely. My parents don’t have to push me into it. This is what I want.
Bradshaw
Q: How helpful has it been to have supportive parents?
A: Super helpful. When I was little, my mom would push me into waves. That really helped me get better.
Q: Where do you see yourself when you’re 21?
A: Hopefully on the CT, traveling the world with my friends, getting drained in between comps.
Q: What’s “getting drained”?
A: Getting barreled.
Q: What came first, skateboarding or surfing? And which do you like more?
A: I definitely started skating first. When I was little, I skated way more than I surfed. I went to the skate park pretty much every day, and it definitely helped my surfing.
Q: If you could go back, would you have started surfing earlier or kept skating?
A: I love doing both.
Q: How does skating help your surfing?
A: I think the movements in skating kind of translate to surfing, like airs and turns.
Q: You often surf with older girls. How’s that?
A: I’m fine with it, but I do miss some of my friends who don’t surf. I don’t get to hang out with them as much, but we still see each other.
Q: What is it that makes surfing so fun for you?
A: The waves, the feeling. Like when you do a good turn and blow your tail out, it just feels so good. It makes you so happy.
Q: Besides surfing, what do you like to do?
A: I like making jewelry. I started about a year ago. Actually, I’m wearing one of my pieces right now. I got a bunch of supplies before leaving Hawai’i—it’s just fun and creative.
Q: Any other hobbies?
A: Not really.
This confident, beaming, humble young woman is performing at a level that is truly unique for her age bracket. We will certainly be seeing more young upstarts in modern female surfing but keep a watchful eye on this one!
Photo Mike Latronic
MUSIC / MOANALANI JONES WONG
Bob Marley – Exodus
This album is timeless — the messages of unity, resilience, and spiritual strength still feel just as powerful today.
Ekolu – Best of Ekolu
Ekolu’s music always hits home. This collection is full of heartfelt island reggae that’s perfect for winding down or singing along with friends.
Rex Atirai – Language – The Archives
This one’s special — it celebrates te reo Māori and culture through powerful storytelling and sound. It’s deeply moving and beautifully crafted.
Robi Kahakalau – Sista Robi
Her voice is pure sunshine. This album has such a warm, island-style feel that instantly transports you to Hawai‘i.
Ka‘au Crater Boys – The Best of Ka‘au
A total feel-good collection — these songs are fun, nostalgic, and full of that laid-back local flavor I never get tired of.
Photo Brian Bielmann
KALEOPA ʻA AND SALLAS VICTORIOUS AT 2025 LOCAL MOTION SURF INTO SUMMER
Photos WSL / Tony Heff
Kelis Kaleopaʻa and Kai Sallas claimed victories at the 2025 Local Motion Surf Into Summer At Home In The Hawaiian Islands, a WSL Hawaiʻi/Tahiti Nui Longboard QS 1,000 event held in flawless conditions at Ala Moana Bowls. The event also crowned the 2024/2025 Hawaiʻi/Tahiti Nui Regional Longboard Champions, with Sallas and Sive Jarrard earning top honors and Tour qualification.
Kaleopaʻa, 20, earned her second Surf Into Summer win with a commanding performance, scoring a 15.60 to hold off Sophia Culhane, Natalia Wunderlich, and Summer Romero. “Going back-to-back here is super special,” said Kaleopaʻa. “It’s my first event in months, and it feels good to be back.”
Culhane, who finished second, now sets her sights on the 2025 WSL Longboard Tour after a top-10 finish last season.
Stewart. The win secured his second straight regional title.
“Competing at home and getting the win in pumping surf—it doesn’t get better,” said Sallas.
Ahina III’s runner-up finish earned him a return to the WSL Longboard Tour for the first time since 2016. “I worked so hard to get here,” he said. “It feels amazing.”
Sallas, the reigning World Longboard Champion, delivered the day’s top score—a 9.33—in the men’s Final, outlasting Nelson Ahina III, John Michael Van Hohenstein, and Kaniela
Jarrard secured her Tour spot by winning the regional title after a strong season, including a Quarterfinal finish at Bowls.
The 2025 WSL Longboard Tour begins July 26 at the Huntington Longboard Classic.
Finals:
Women: 1. Kaleopaʻa, 2. Culhane, 3. Wunderlich, 4. Romero
Visit WorldSurfLeague.com for full results.
Men: 1. Sallas, 2. Ahina III, 3. Van Hohenstein, 4. Stewart
Kelis Kaleopaʻa
Kai Sallas
RACHAEL TILLY AND EDOUARD DELPERO GOLD MEDALISTS AT 2025 SURF CITY EL SALVADOR ISA WORLD LONGBOARD CHAMPIONSHIP
France Wins Fourth Team Gold at ISA World Longboard Championship
France made history by claiming a fourth team gold medal at the 2025 Surf City El Salvador ISA World Longboard Championship (WLC). Finals Day at El Sunzal delivered clean, three-to-five-foot waves, offering ideal conditions to crown both team and individual world champions.
Edouard Delpero (FRA), a key figure in France’s previous team wins, finally captured his first individual gold after multiple Final appearances. On the women’s side, Rachael Tilly (USA) earned her first ISA individual title, adding to her 2024 WSL World Championship and previous ISA silvers.
Tilly’s victory helped Team USA secure silver, while the Philippines earned bronze and Brazil took copper in a tight team race.
Tilly, who debuted in the ISA Final in 2013 at age 15 and finished runner-up again in 2024, called the win a dream fulfilled. “I’ve gotten two silver medals and really wanted the gold,” she said. “When Alice [Le Moigne] dropped a nine, I knew it was on. I’m speechless.”
The women’s Final saw Tilly and two-time ISA Champion Alice Le Moigne (FRA) exchange high scores early, with Le Moigne earning a 9.00 and Tilly an 8.33. A strategic paddling exchange favored Le Moigne late in the heat, but Tilly answered with a clean 6.80 on a smaller wave. Le Moigne’s final set wave didn’t deliver, and after a long wait on the sand, Tilly was declared the winner. Maria Fernanda Reyes (PER) earned bronze, and Sophia Culhane (HAW) took copper.
In the men’s Final, Edouard Delpero dominated. Having reached the Final in every ISA WLC held at El Sunzal without a win, the 35-year-old finally sealed the deal with powerful surfing and an 18.24 heat total, including a 9.17 and 9.07.
Edouard Delpero Photo ISA / PabloJimenez
Moku Rider Tehilah "Lala" Amir
Photo: Jonna Manatad-Watson
“I don’t even realize what’s happening,” said Delpero, emotional after the win. “I’ve done the Final four times. In 2023, my brother Antoine won. This year, he returned as coach—and I won.”
Delpero was joined in the Final by 2024 silver and bronze medalists Rodrigo Sphaier (BRA) and Taka Inoue (JPN), and 2023 copper medalist Rogelio Esquievel Jr. (PHI).
Sphaier earned the only other excellent score of the heat with an 8.60, but it wasn’t enough to catch Delpero. Sphaier earned silver, Esquievel bronze, and Inoue copper.
Rachael Tilly
Photo ISA / Jersson Barboza
Final Results
Team
Gold – France
Silver – USA
Bronze – Philippines
Copper – Brazil
Women’s Final
Gold – Rachael Tilly (USA)
Silver – Alice Le Moigne (FRA)
Bronze – Maria Fernanda Reyes (PER)
Copper – Sophia Culhane (HAW)
Men’s Final
Gold – Edouard Delpero (FRA)
Silver – Rodrigo Sphaier (BRA)
Bronze – Rogelio Esquievel Jr. (PHI)
Copper – Taka Inoue (JPN)
COCKTAILS WITH A CAUSE: JOSE CUERVO HELPS MAKE WAVES
Inspiration is where you find it and this year, we’re proud to find it in a cocktail and a cause. We salute our inspired friends at Jose Cuervo for their generous contribution of nearly $35,000 to Access Surf: a local nonprofit that empowers people with disabilities through accessible beach and surf programs. From adaptive surfing clinics to ocean therapy, Access Surf provides life-changing experiences for individuals who might otherwise never get the chance to feel the stoke.
This impactful donation is the direct result of the Mahalo Margarita program, a communitydriven initiative where participating bars and restaurants across Hawai’i pledge a portion of sales from every Mahalo Margarita sold. Jose Cuervo matches those efforts, amplifying the local aloha spirit into meaningful support.
Access Surf was the chosen nonprofit for this year's campaign, and we toast both the program and the people behind it. Cheers to Jose Cuervo for making waves in the best way possible and for helping make the ocean accessible to everyone.
In the words of Access Surf director Cara Short, “Support from partners like Jose Cuervo makes our programs possible. Their partnership helps us provide life changing experiences and to create pathways for accessibility and inclusion for all people.”
MAHALO MARGARITA is a give-back cocktail program where on premise accounts donate a portion of sales from their MAHALO MARGARITA, made with Tradicional 100% agave tequila, to AccesSurf. Jose Cuervo® will match the proceeds up to $25k. Together, this joint donation of $50k would go to support surf experiences and more for a full year.
OAHU
Kuhio Avenue Food Hall / Waikiki
Kelly O’Neil's / Waikiki
Jorge's / Haleiwa
El Ranchero / Kapolei
El Ranchero / Wahiawa
Mekiko Cantina / Ko’olina
Restaurant 604 / Arizona Memorial
The Beachouse by 604 / Waianae
60 Fore Bar & Grill / Barber’s Point
604 Clubhouse / Leilehua
604 Ale House / Schofield
Mangiamo’s / Navy Marine Golf
OAHU HOTELS
Sheraton Waikiki Hotel
Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Moana Surfrider Hotel
Princess Kaiulani Hotel
Marriott Waikiki Hotel
BIG ISLAND
Huggo's
Lava Lava
Kai Eats
MAUI
Sergio's Cantina
Sheraton Maui
KAUA'I HOTELS
Friendly Waves
Lava Lava Beach Club
NEWS & EVENTS
31ST MAUI POHAI NA KEIKI NALU PRESENTED BY HI-TECH
We had a blast with everyone who came out for the 31st annual #PohaiNaKeikiNalu - Mahalo to all our participants who make this event awesome each year and congratulations to our division champions:
Bandit Udell, 5-6 boys shortboard
Eve Jordan, 5-6 girls shortboard
Jack Moody, 7-8 boys shortboard
Maya Andrade, 7-8 girls shortboard
Rocco Swift, 9-10 boys shortboard
Avery Stelow, 9-10 girls shortboard
Kodo Fujimoto, 11-12 boys shortboard
Peata Lee-Hubin, 11-12 girls shortboard
Axel Goya, 7-9 boys longboard
Millie Colpas, 7-9 girls longboard
Kaniela Miranda, 10-12 boys longboard
Gracie Sarno, 10-12 girls longboard
Carver Masserman, 7-9 bodyboard
Kalli Sprenger, 10-12 bodyboard
Thank you to our awesome event sponsors @reef and @kazumasurfboardshawaii Photos by @1more808
JACK MCCOY 1948-2025
Jack McCoy, pioneering surf filmmaker, passed away at 76. Born in Los Angeles in 1948, he moved to Hawaiʻi in 1954 and later to Australia, where he began creating iconic 16mm surf films. Known as one of the all time greats in water cinematography. McCoy documented surf legends and collaborated with top athletes for years. He was truly a master of his craft and one of a kind human. McCoy is survived by his wife Kelly, children, and grandchildren. His legacy forever shapes how surfing is seen and felt. Rest in peace old friend.
LANE DAVEY 1970-2025
Lane “Laneski” Davey, a pioneering force in women’s surfing at Pipeline, passed away on April 26, 2025, at age 55 after a courageous battle with cancer. In 1993, she founded “Us Girls,” one of the first women-led surf brands. Lane was also a journalist and academic who integrated Hawaiian surf history into university studies. She is survived by her husband Sean, one of the best surf photographers to ever to enter the ocean. RIP Lane.
STUFF WE LIKE
MIRA LANI HAWAI'I
Step out with confidence! Whether you’re swinging a golf club, smashing a tennis ball or your daily wear The ‘Blue Crush’ set has you covered. From the softest material and sun protection we need . This set has got you covered .
Embrace your strength and shine
SALTY CREW
Drifter 19" Triblend Hybrid Short
Gear up for your next adventure with the Salty Crew Drifter 19" Hybrid Short in Camo! Designed for versatility, these shorts transition seamlessly from land to sea. Crafted from recycled performance fibers, they offer 4-way stretch and quick-dry fabrication for ultimate comfort.
COSTA
The Costa King Tide 8 isn’t just built for bigger faces—it’s bui bold adventures. With lightweight yet durable Bio-Resin™ frames, polarized lenses that cut glare on the water, and a secure fit that stays put from sunrise paddle-outs to sunset casts, these shades are your ultimate sidekick for life on the water.
• 100% UV protection
• Sweat + slip-resistant
• Designed to perform wherever the coast calls
HAVAIANAS
A new Classic is born.
The women's Havaiana Slim Square Logo Pop Up flip flop is the beloved Slim design, but reinvented.
This sandal features a modern square toe along with the iconic havaianas logo in a contrasting color, prominently displayed on the strap. Available in four colors, choose the one you love most!
www.havaianas.com
Clyde Aikau, legendary Hawaiian waterman and beloved younger brother of the iconic Eddie Aikau, has passed away at the age of 74. A revered big-wave surfer, lifeguard, and keeper of the Aikau legacy, Clyde was a past winner of the prestigious Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau contest at Waimea Bay in 1986, solidifying his place in surf history. Known for his quiet strength, deep humility, and unwavering commitment to honoring his brother’s spirit, Clyde carried forward the Eddie legacy with grace, organizing the event and inspiring generations of surfers. His passing marks the end of an era in Hawaiian surf culture, but his influence and aloha will ripple through the waves forever. Aloha legend. Photo Brian Bielmann
