Trestles on World Oceans Day: A Local Legacy with Global Impact

Every day, we rely on the ocean-for waves, for community, and for connection. World Oceans Day is a chance to reaffirm that protecting our coastlines is a global responsibility that starts at home. As the World Surf League (WSL) returns to Trestles this June for the Lexus Trestles Pro, we're spotlighting a Southern California surf break that's become more than just a competitive stage but is a testament to decades of community-led conservation, cultural stewardship, and resilience in action.

A History of Conservation

Trestles isn't just a competition venue: it's a proving ground, a pilgrimage site, and a place where generations of surfers have formed lifelong connections to the ocean. But it's also a beach that almost wasn't. In 2005, a six-lane toll road was proposed that would have cut through San Onofre State Beach, threatening the last remaining undeveloped watershed in Southern California, the beach's world-class waves, endangered species, and lands sacred to the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation.

What followed was one of the most significant environmental victories in California's history. Led by the Surfrider Foundation and the Save San Onofre Coalition-with critical involvement from the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, Native Like Water, and countless advocates-the plan was defeated and the park was permanently protected.

Save Trestles

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The Work Continues

That commitment to stewardship hasn't let up. In 2024, a new 25-year lease secured by California State Parks, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Surfrider, and the San Onofre Parks Foundation ensures long-term public access and protection. Regular cleanups and habitat restoration events led by Surfrider, California State Parks, and San Onofre Parks Foundation in collaboration with Acjachemen leaders are removing invasive species, restoring native plants, cleaning up the beach and creating space for cultural and ecological education rooted in land and ocean connection.

Surfrider volunteers helping restore the coastline at Trestles during restoration workshops supported by the WSL PURE Grant Program. - WSL / Surfrider Foundation

CA State Parks staff removing invasive species. - WSL / Pat Nolan

Just up the coast, San Clemente-based nonprofit Bring Back Our Beaches (BBOB) has mobilized public awareness around sand loss and coastal erosion. Through advocacy, science-grounded content, and campaigns supported by hometown pros like Kolohe Andino and Sawyer Lindblad, BBOB is helping lead the charge to protect San Clemente's beaches and surf spots for future generations.

This World Oceans Day, we also recognize the role of past WSL PURE grantees like Native Like Water and Sea and Soil Collective, whose work brings Indigenous knowledge, youth education, and inclusive community care to the forefront of coastal conservation.

BBOB is inspired by successful beach nourishment projects worldwide and are eager to raise awareness to beaches and best practices for restoring them​. - WSL / Bring Back Our Beaches

The Future Starts Here

As surfers, fans, and stewards of the ocean, we know that these waves are more than a playing field. They're a lifeline. Protecting our coastlines isn't just about where we surf, but it's about how we show up. It's about community, culture, and a love for the ocean that transcends sport. As we reflect on what it means to protect the places we love, we invite our community to be part of this ongoing story. Whether it's joining a local cleanup, supporting coastal advocacy, or learning more about the efforts of organizations like Surfrider Foundation and Bring Back Our Beaches, every action-big or small-helps protect the waves and beaches we cherish.

Explore & Take Action:

• Learn the history of the Save Trestles campaign
• Watch Trestles Saved - the story behind the fight to protect the coast
• Get involved in Trestles cleanups and restoration events
• Support sand replenishment and shoreline advocacy via BBOB
• Watch Running Out of Time - BBOB's film on San Clemente's disappearing beaches
• Support San Onofre Parks Foundation by becoming a member and taking action

Take action to protect this special place! - WSL / Pat Nolan

As surfers, the ocean is our playground and our stadium. Getting involved in protecting and conserving the ocean is critical for us today and for future generations. Show us what you are doing by posting on social media with the hashtag #WSLOneOcean and tagging @wsl and @wsloneocean in your posts. You can learn more and get involved at WSLOneOcean.org.