Presented by BEACHSPORT.org, the Chambers of Commerce and Cities of Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Los Angeles County Fire Department and Department of Beaches and Harbors.

The 2018 host city for the 56th International Surf Festival is the City of Redondo Beach. The event promotes the four South Bay beach cities, the world’s best lifeguard service, and physical fitness for thousands of participants.  Participants range in age from 8 years old to the late 80’s.  The three signature events for the festival are the Judge Taplin Lifeguard Medley Relay, the Dwight Crum Pier-to-Pier Swim, and the Charley Saikley 6-Man Volleyball Tournament.  Other great events include a surfing contest, bodysurfing contest, beach run, paddleboard races, dory race, and youth events. The festival has hosted numerous international lifeguard teams including teams from Victoria, Australia.

The International Surf Festival kick-off dinner is held on the Wednesday prior to the start of the Charley Saikley 6-Man Volleyball Tournament and the Lifeguard Intracrew competition on Friday. The dinner includes the Los Angeles County Fire Department Lifeguard Medal of Valor award ceremony

The International Surf Festival is a non-profit 501(c)(4) corporation.