Surfers at Ocean Beach concerned plan may degrade waves at renowned surfing location

San Francisco surfers in the Outer Sunset neighborhood are concerned about a city plan that could potentially affect the world-famous waves at Ocean Beach. This area is known for its towering waves, cold waters, and the presence of sharks, making it a popular spot for surfers. The Outerlands, as it is called, is home to several surf shops and the surfer-owned dive bar, Pitt’s Pub.

The city’s plan includes the construction of a 3,200-foot underground wall to protect a nearby wastewater plant from coastal erosion, as well as the addition of bike lanes, an art exhibit, and a beach access ramp. However, surfers and experts are worried that the wall could displace sand and impact the quality of the waves at Ocean Beach. Additionally, the plan involves permanently closing the Great Highway to cars between Sloat and Skyline Boulevards.

The area near Sloat is significant to the surfing community in San Francisco, as it is where some of the city’s first surfers braved the challenging waters. Matt Lopez, co-owner of Pitt’s Pub and a lifelong Ocean Beach surfer, is concerned that the changes could have a negative impact on the Sloat surf break. He believes that the spot, already affected by sand dumping to prevent erosion, could be further damaged by the proposed construction.

Lopez emphasized the importance of preserving the waves at Ocean Beach, particularly at Sloat, as it holds historical significance for the neighborhood and the surfing community. He worries that any drastic changes could have a lasting impact on the area and potentially ruin the waves that surfers have come to love.