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Princes of Surf 2025: Heʻe Nalu Santa Cruz Exhibit Opening
July 18 | Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History (MAH) is proud to present Princes of Surf 2025: Heʻe nalu Santa Cruz, an exhibition that spotlights how three Hawaiian princes—David Kawananakoa, Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana’ole, and Edward Keliiahonui— introduced surfing to the U.S. mainland via Santa Cruz in 1885 and rode the wave of legacy and relevance to Santa Cruz County.
This exhibition will run from July 18, 2025 – January 4, 2026.
Santa Cruz is the birthplace of surfing in North America, and the original “Surf City.” Although historical evidence clearly documents its 1885 arrival and local adoption by 1896, confusion about its origin remains. Its pioneers were Polynesian, in contrast to the stereotype (reinforced by movies and TV) that it is a predominantly white male sport, and despite the fact that many BIPOC individuals take part. Furthermore, the tale of Antoinette Swan—who was also a surfer underscores the fact that women are an important part of surfing’s origins.
More information at: https://www.santacruzmah.org/exhibitions/hee-nalu-ma-2025