According to Long Beach’s Surfrider Foundation, the breakwater has caused years of controversy, rapid pollution of local waters, and is an engineering failure.  The City Council is looking into measures to research the project and eventually, find solutions.

The Long Beach Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation held a silent auction fundraiser at Smooth’s restaurant downtown recently, raising awareness and funds to bring natural ocean waves back to the beach.

On July 24, Long Beach City Council members voted 7-1 in favor of allowing up to $100,000 funding for a breakwater reconnaissance study—a major victory after the council members voted to ask the federal government for a breakwater study two years ago.

Councilmember Patrick O’Donnell will sponsor a forum to discuss the LB Breakwater at the Aquarium of the Pacific on Dec 1, 8:30 am – 10:30 am.  RSVP to Rose Stevens (562) 570-6918.

If you are interested in volunteering to “bring back the surf,” contact Robert Palmer at (562) 438-8089.

All photos by Diana Lejins

Christopher Ward discusses with Councilman Patrick O’Donnel and his wife.

Janice Dahl and friends hang ten.



Smooth’s owner John Morris at the fundraiser.