Our Programs
BSSC programming is intended as a safe space for Black, Indigenous, people/communities of color, and other historically excluded groups to be in community and learn about the ocean. Programs are normally held in the spring and fall, with the exception of our Liberation Paddle Out each summer on Juneteenth weekend.
If you're looking to explore your relationship with the ocean but don't know where to begin - the Liberation Paddle Out (LPO) has been a helpful starting point for many members. The LPO offers a fun and safe way for people of any swimming ability to venture beyond the shoreline on a surfboard in a safe and supported environment. Then, the Prepare to Pop-up Program is a good next step to build knowledge and confidence in the ocean before catching a wave with us at a Pop-Up Program!
Annual Liberation Paddle Out
In concert with Juneteenth programming throughout Santa Cruz County, The Liberation Paddle Out (LPO) provides a joyous day on the beach intended to center our black and BIPOC community and offer a chance to paddle out into the water and experience the transformative power of the ocean, many for their first time.
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fun games
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great music
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delicious food
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free surf equipment
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ocean safety lessons
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skilled water support team
This event is open to the entire community and encourages relationship-building and awareness with the general public.
Prepare to Pop-Up Program
The Prepare to Pop-up Program (P2PUP) is a multi-week program designed to help people feel more prepared and connected with the ocean before joining a Pop-Up Program. We aim to hold 1-2 P2PUPs per year.
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4 - 5 meetups over the span of multiple weeks
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Small groups of 8 or less
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Learn surfing fundamentals at a slower pace
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Build community
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Connect with the ocean
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Learn to float before you learn to surf!
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Get early access to register for Pop-Ups
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Be celebrated at the Liberation Paddle Out!
The Pop-Up Program (PUP) is a single-day surf outing. We aim to host at least 12 Pop-Up events per year.
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Single day program
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About 3 hours long
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In-depth sand learning session
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Small groups of 8 or less
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Learn and practice the basics of surfing
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1 volunteer coach per 2-3 people
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Practice riding waves in a supportive environment
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Build community
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Connect with the ocean
Keep-Up Program
COMING SOON!
The Keep-Up Program is a single-day program designed to offer our program participants opportunities to get in the water with community, and continue honing in on their surfing skills.
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Single day program
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About 1.5 hours long
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Small groups of 8 or less
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Practice the basics of surfing
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No sand learning session, just water time
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1 volunteer coach per 4 people
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Practice riding waves in a supportive environment
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Build community
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Connect with the ocean
