For 50 years,
Surf Expo has been the place where coastal retail comes to life — where brands debut what’s next and buyers come ready to discover, connect and place orders.
What began as a surf-focused gathering has grown into a dynamic marketplace spanning resort, boutique, gift, souvenir and shoreline outdoor categories, reflecting the full spectrum of today’s coastal lifestyle.
Since 1976, it has served as the heartbeat of coastal retail — a place where careers are launched; trends are spotted early; and long-term business relationships are formed.
A coastal focus
In response to evolving consumer behavior, Surf Expo has been expanding from its surf roots to become a fully integrated coastal lifestyle marketplace staying uber relevant to all retailers and wholesalers who serve the coastal lifestyle.
“As consumer interests broadened, Surf Expo evolved alongside them, expanding into resort, swim, boutique, gift, souvenir and shoreline outdoor categories.” — Roy Turner
“As consumer interests broadened, Surf Expo evolved alongside them, expanding into resort, swim, boutique, gift, souvenir and shoreline outdoor categories,” says Roy Turner, show director.
One of the show’s newest areas is its Shoreline Outdoor category, presenting a curated showcase of lifestyle-driven essentials for life on the water and adventures on land.
Surf Expo’s Boutique and Resort categories are also rapidly expanding to meet the demands of lifestyle and vacation destination shoppers with elevated coastal gifts, trend-forward apparel and premium swim.
Making moves
Positioned for continued growth, Surf Expo aims to keep buyers and brands engaged with Surf Expo 365 days a year by combining in-person events with digital product discovery, year-round marketplace tools and enhanced connectivity.
“While technology expands the show’s reach, the core focus will remain unchanged: people, relationships and community,” Turner says. “Despite the massive growth and industry changes, buyers and exhibitors still describe walking the show floor as ‘coming home.’ That feeling, built over five decades, is the show’s greatest achievement and the foundation for its future.
He adds, “Surf Expo isn’t just where the industry gathers — it’s where it grows.”
Visit surfexpo.com to register now!
