With origins in Polynesia, modern surfing has become a cultural force that continues to shape generations in the Santa Cruz community. This summer, the MAH is proud to present Princes of Surf 2025: Heʻe nalu Santa Cruz, an exhibition that dives into the rich history and evolving legacy of surfing in our region. Ahead of the exhibition’s opening on July 18, we caught up with Tahnee Henningsen, the MAH’s Programs Coordinator, to get a preview of what’s in store.
Tahnee shared her excitement about a unique kickoff event taking place on Wednesday, June 18, from 11 AM to 1 PM at the MAH. This ceremonial unveiling will feature a sneak peek of new handcrafted o’lo surfboards created by renowned shaper Bob Pearson that will be part of the exhibition.
“These boards will arrive in a procession of Santa Cruz Woodies,” Tahnee explained, “followed by a blessing and remarks from the exhibition’s curators.”
Another standout in the lineup is the Community Paddle Out on Saturday, July 19th, honoring the 140th anniversary of surfing’s arrival in Santa Cruz. On this day in 1885, the princes shaped their redwood boards and surfed the Rivermouth, leaving a legacy that still resonates today.
While surfing is a defining feature of Santa Cruz, Princes of Surf 2025: Heʻe nalu Santa Cruz invites a deeper reflection on the roots of the practice and the people who brought it here.
“It’s hard to imagine Santa Cruz without surfing—it’s embedded in our culture,” Tahnee noted. “Surfing is a sacred Indigenous practice, a tradition introduced to California 140 years ago by three Hawaiian princes. This exhibition honors them and the gift they gave our community. It also highlights often-overlooked figures in local surf history, including the women who helped shape the culture and push surfing forward.”
MAH Members will enjoy special perks around the exhibition, including an exclusive preview hour before the public opening on Friday, July 18, from 6–7 PM. RSVP here.
In addition, the MAH is rolling out expanded membership benefits, including new Downtown Discounts, free guest passes, and behind-the-scenes experiences.
“MAH members make exhibitions like this possible,” Tahnee added. “Your membership plays a vital role in preserving and sharing Santa Cruz’s cultural fabric, from ancient traditions to contemporary stories.”
Mark your calendar for July 18, 2025, and get ready to experience the waves of history, community, and creativity at the MAH. Whether you're a lifelong surfer or just discovering the story, Princes of Surf: Heʻe nalu Santa Cruz promises to inspire and connect.
Jul 18, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026
An exhibition that spotlights how three Hawaiian princes—David Kawānanakoa, Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole, and Edward Keliʻiahonui— introduced surfing to the U.S. mainland via Santa Cruz in 1885 and rode the wave of legacy and relevance to Santa Cruz County.
Already a MAH Member? Thank you for riding this wave with us! Not a member yet? Join today and dive into the story of surfing in Santa Cruz.
