Research, Case Examples, and Ideas at the Intersection of Surf, Economics, and Coastlines
The SurfingEconomics Resources section is a curated knowledge hub for governments, planners, researchers, and surf-industry stakeholders.
Here we collect real-world examples, academic research, and original thinking that explore how surf interacts with coastal economies, public infrastructure, and tourism systems.
Whether you’re evaluating surf as an economic asset, exploring wave-enhancement concepts, or simply learning from existing case studies, these resources are designed to support informed, responsible decision-making.
Artificial Wave Examples
Across the world, some of the most iconic surf breaks exist not purely by nature—but as a result of human-made coastal structures, often unintentionally.
This section documents real-world artificial and semi-artificial surf breaks, including harbor mouths, jetties, sand deposition zones, inlets, and pier-created waves.
Each example includes:
- Location and context
- How the wave was formed
- Why it works from a surf-dynamics perspective
- Observed economic and cultural impact
- Lessons that may be applicable elsewhere
These case studies help governments and planners understand what’s already possible, grounded in reality rather than speculation.
👉 Explore Artificial Wave Examples
Scientific Research on the Economics of Surfing
Surf tourism is increasingly recognized as a measurable economic driver—but much of the research is scattered across academic journals and disciplines.
This section compiles peer-reviewed scientific papers, economic studies, and academic research focused on:
- Surf tourism economics
- Coastal recreation value
- Willingness-to-pay for surf quality
- Economic impact of surf breaks
- Surfing as a public good
Our goal is to make this research accessible and usable for policymakers, analysts, and practitioners who want evidence—not anecdotes.
👉 View Scientific Research
Blog & Commentary
The SurfingEconomics blog is where theory, observation, and experience come together.
Here we publish:
- Analysis of surf tourism trends
- Commentary on coastal infrastructure and wave quality
- Case studies and emerging ideas
- Reflections on sustainability, access, and economics
- Exploratory thinking on artificial wave concepts
This is not promotional content—it’s a working notebook for ideas at the edge of surf and public economics.
👉 Read the Blog
Why These Resources Exist
Surf is often discussed emotionally or culturally—but rarely systematically.
These resources exist to:
- Ground surf-related decisions in evidence
- Provide shared reference points for discussion
- Reduce risk in early-stage exploration
- Support long-term coastal planning
Whether you’re a government official, researcher, or practitioner, this section is meant to help you think more clearly about surf as an economic and public asset.