Don’t Miss the East Coast Surfing Championships in Virginia Beach
Updated by Chris Murphy. Images from ECSC
The Annual East Coast Surfing Championships takes place Aug. 17-24, 2025 at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, from First through Fifth Streets.
This East Coast surfing competition is the second-longest running surfing contest in the world and draws large crowds of spectators and competitors each year.
Virginia Beach offers plenty of exciting events throughout the year. One of the highlights of the summer season is the East Coast Surfing Championships. Held at the Oceanfront, this East Coast surfing competition is the second-longest running surfing contest in the world and draws large crowds of spectators and competitors each year. The Annual East Coast Surfing Championships takes place Aug. 20-27, 2023 at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, from First through Fifth Streets.
About the ECSC
The Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships (ECSC) is a week-long competition event for professional and amateur surfers. The ECSC brings hundreds of surfers to compete for East Coast surfing titles and prizes.
In addition to the surfing competition, the ECSC will feature other beach-oriented sports and recreational activities, including volleyball, a 5K boardwalk run, skate and ramp competitions and a swimsuit competition. When spectators aren’t watching the competitions, they can enjoy the live music on the beach and food and drink concessions.
ECSC Events
From surfing and beach sports to free concerts, the ECSC offers plenty for spectators to see and do.
The surfing competition take place all week long. Visitors will be able to watch surfers of all levels, from novice to professionals, compete for the top prize. First place in each division will receive a $100 cash prize. Winners of the Bob Holland Memorial Pro Longboard Open will earn a $1,000 cash prize. Finalists in each division will receive a trophy and prizes.
Other beach-oriented sports, recreation, and entertainment offerings include beach volleyball, a boardwalk 5k run, street skate and ramp contests, swimsuit contests, food and drink concessions, art and craft vendors, and live music on the beach.
Between the competitions, head to the beach for free concerts. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 23-24 will showcase the Coastal Edge Aloha Block Party, Pacifico Bar Crawl, beach volleyball and live music.
More Information about the ECSC
The Annual East Coast Surfing Championships takes place Aug. 17-24, 2025 at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, from First through Fifth Streets. For more information, visit SurfECSC.com
Things to Do near the ECSC
Summertime in Virginia Beach offers plenty to see and do for those visiting town for the East Coast Surfing Championship. From having some fun in the sand and surf yourself to events and attractions for all ages.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers three miles of restaurants, activities and attractions. Walk or rent a bike from Cherie’s Bikes and Blades to explore all the boardwalk has to offer, including the many sculptures and monuments.
You’ll find attractions to fill your time when you aren’t enjoying the competitions at the ECSC. Have fun, educational experiences at local museums, including the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum and the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum. Then, follow the bright, flashing lights to Atlantic Fun Park where rides, go-karts and carnival-style games await.
Find some of Virginia Beach’s most popular restaurants right at the Oceanfront. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at a fun, beach bar, a family-friendly restaurant or a high-end meal at in an upscale dining room. Restaurants like Abbey Road Pub & Restaurant feature casual fare in a relaxed setting, with plenty of outdoor seating. Many restaurants at the Oceanfront utilize locally-sourced ingredients and even come with a breathtaking waterfront view.
Click here to read more about things to do in Virginia Beach.
