This summer, the waves in Sayulita carry more than just surfers—they carry purpose, passion, and a new generation of talent. On June 28 at 8am, the Verano Surf Kids Contest returns to Sayulita’s north beach, offering young surfers the chance to compete, learn, and grow. We sat down with Juan, the longtime local photographer and surf mentor behind the event, to hear how he’s reviving a movement that first put Sayulita on the international surf map 20 years ago.

🌊 Background & Vision

Q: Juan, can you share a bit about your background and what led you to launch the Verano Surf Kids Contest?
I came to Sayulita 20 years ago to do an article for a Latin American surf magazine I was working with. As a photographer, I saw incredible hidden talent in this small Mexican town and made it my mission to help get those kids on the map. Diego Cadena, Adrian Rodriguez, Johan Alcantar, Adan Hernandez—these were just some of the names we helped promote into the spotlight. Now, I see the same talent rising again, and it’s time to do it all over with a new generation.

Q: What inspired you to model the event after the ISA Olympic format and include certified judges?
Surfing is now an Olympic sport, and the ISA governs the rules used at that level. Teaching our local kids to compete under these standards gives them a real shot at going global—and maybe even Olympic—someday.

🧒🏽 Event Details

Q: Why include multiple youth age divisions (4–8, 9–12, and 12–14)?
Surfing starts early here. Our waves are perfect for kids to learn, and developing confidence in the ocean from a young age lays the foundation for future stars.

Q: When and where is the event happening?
The contest takes place on Friday, June 28 on the north beach (left break) in Sayulita. It’s an all-day event open to the public—come cheer on the kids and enjoy the community vibe!

Q: How do local surf groups help support this contest?
Liga Peewee created many of today’s top local surfers. Now, groups like Terminator Surf, Northside Surf Clinic, and Alto are working together again to build the future. These aren’t just clubs—they’re surf families with a shared mission.

🌴 Community & Culture

Q: How does this contest build confidence and sportsmanship?
It’s all about teaching the kids what it’s like to compete professionally. They leave with real knowledge, pride, and an experience that pushes them forward.

Q: Sayulita has a strong surf culture—how does this event keep it alive?
The next generation is coming in strong. Events like this are essential in preserving Sayulita’s surf legacy while helping it evolve.

🏆 Highlights & What’s New

Q: What excites you most about this year’s contest?
This is the first event of its kind in years—and we hope it sparks renewed focus on surf education for kids.

Q: Can you tell us more about the prizes?
Tons of boards, trophies, gift bags—and a few surprises I can’t reveal yet 😉 But trust me, the kids are going to be stoked!

🙌 Get Involved

Q: How can families register their kids?
It’s free! Sign up here: Register Kids Here
*Last Day to register is Thursday, June 26th

Q: How can people support the contest?
Reach out to us on Instagram at @northsidesurfclinic, @mexkidsurfjam, or give me a call at 322 120 9679. Whether you want to donate, sponsor, or volunteer—let’s talk!

🌟 Closing Thoughts

“Our goal is to prepare the future of Sayulita’s surf as best as we can, give back to the sport, and show how a small town can create big waves.”

Huge thanks to our sponsors:
Premium Sponsor: MexHome
Golden Sponsors: Public House, Casa Yaka, Yah Yah’s Cafe, Alto, Terminator Surf, North Side Surf Clinic, Sayulita Life, and Flora Amor.
Basic Sponsors: Pacific Dream Shots, Chewbaca Store, Luna Azul Surf School, Avalos Realty, Casa Nawalli, and Papillon Studios.

Everyone’s invited—bring your kids, bring your energy, and join us for a celebration of youth, surf, and community.