Socioeconomics and Economic Impact of Surfing

Worldwide

• 20 Million Surfers Worldwide (Approximate # in 2007)

How Surfing Influences Lives of Surfers

• Life Choices
  • Career Choices
  • Residence and living location decisions
  • Work schedules
  • University & College choices

USA

• “Surf Spots” are considered ‘Natural Cultural Resources’ according to the National Environmental Policy Act

• Estimated expenditures to local businesses, including fuel and food add $40.16 per surfer per surf session to the coastal economy at Trestles Beach, California (in Lazarow et al., 2007).

Australia

• 90% of Australia’s population is located in the coastal zone.
• 16% of Western Australia’s population surfs. (300,000 Surfers in WA)
• More than a recreational pursuit – surfing is a sub culture within Australia’s Society