our programs
We Surf Ecosystems.
We believe that legally protected areas, effective stewardship and a mobilized constituency result in healthy and protected surf ecosystems.
Protected Areas
We protect surf ecosystems by creating protected areas in high priority coastal ecosystems that overlap with high quality surf.
WORLD SURFING RESERVES
SURF PROTECTED AREA NETWORKS
Ongoing campaigns
International campaigns to preserve and defend threatened waves and valuable surf ecosystems – from Mexico to Ireland.
Save The Waves App
recent news in programs
Applications for ‘World Surfing Reserve’ Program Opens
World Surfing Reserves is our flagship program dedicated to protecting outstanding surf breaks. Application window is open April 8 – October 15, 2021.
New Surfonomics Study for Lobitos, Peru Released
Lobitos is a perfect example of how a small village can benefit from, and depend on, the preservation of a world-class wave. The newest Surfonomics study reveals the significant economic contribution of surf tourism.
One of the Greatest Waves in the Maldives is Under Serious Threat
Written by Tony Butt | Chickens is a lefthander that breaks off a small island called Kuda Villigili in the northeast of the North Malé Atoll. If it isn’t saved, it will go down in history as an unfortunate case that could have so easily been avoided.
Save The Waves and partners launch international campaign to protect the Maldives
Surf ecosystems across the Maldives are being destroyed by rapid coastal development. Save The Waves and local partners launch a campaign to change that.
The Road to Becoming a World Surfing Reserve
A WSR is more than a designation. Playa Hermosa begins to work towards its vision for the protection of its surf ecosystem.
Guarda Do Embaú LSC Update on Rio da Madre Project
Considering the damage and impact, the Local Stewardship Council of the 9th WSR stated that intervention at the mouth of Rio da Madre is necessary.
Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica Named As Next World Surfing Reserve
Save The Waves is pleased to announce that Playa Hermosa, Garabito, Costa Rica has officially been approved as the next World Surfing Reserve – the first WSR in Central America.
Historic Milestone: 10,000-Acre Sanctuary Approved on Chile’s Central Coast
The Sanctuary encourages the protection of over 10,000 acres located on the central coast of Chile, including Topocalma and Puertocillo.
Campaign Update: Salvemos Punta Conejo
Last year, we launched the Salvemos Punta Conejo campaign and have been working diligently ever since. We know that once a natural phenomenon like Punta Conejo is altered by industry, it is forever lost. We won’t let this gem go down without a fight.