February 7th, 2026. The big day for a lot of surfers in the 805. It was the official start of the much anticipated Rincon Classic.
But for Goleta surfers, it was just another Classic day in paradise.
We had already been getting a lot of waves this winter, but this weekend promised a substantial swell with perfect conditions.
And for the most part, the prediction was correct.
The Gaviota Coast had some decent waves, but still a bit of the pesky wind chop that had been around for a few days.
But the guys were able to find some shelter from the wind.
The size wasn’t quite what was expected but it was still a good swell with a light crowd. At any rate, we decided to venture south to see how other spots were doing.
And as it turned out, there seemed to be better conditions in town.
Glassy overhead sets with a small pack of guys on it.
We need to see the photos the guy on the boat got!
A stylish display. Definitely a finalist in the Goleta Classic.
Whoever’s having the most fun wins in the Goleta Classic. Another finalist.
The peanut gallery wasn’t quite as large as the Rincon event, but still a fair amount of families enjoying the gorgeous winter day.
Occasional sets would roll through with some real size.
Goofy footer with his back to the wall…
And the crowd went wild.
All in all, a Classic Campus Point day.
The crowd was actually a little thicker down at Poles.
But you don’t find any shade like this down at Poles…
All in all, just a casual, uncrowded day of surf. This guy made it look very casual.
As nice as this was, we decided to go check out some other spots.
So we followed the pelicans…
Heading up the coast, there was nothing but waves and whitewater, as far as the eye could see….
Well, waves, whitewater and heads.
As we got closer to the point, we could see they take their surfing seriously around here. Damn near fanatical.
And quite a congregation there was.
Days like these, there are waves virtually everywhere.
Thanks to our early rain, the spring flowers were popping, making Devereux Point even more beautiful than usual.
As we worked our way up the coast, clean waves continued to roll through, many of them empty.
Really fun looking lines all through the cove.
Such a perfect, gorgeous warm day. We are truly blessed to call this place home.
These were the judges here. No trophies or announcers. Just smiles all around.
But still a Classic day to be sure. Viva Goleta!
See more of David Powdrell’s great photos of the 2026 Rincon Classic- CLICK HERE
Beautiful! Thanks, Tom.