The Santa Cruz Surf Club began in the city where surfing was first introduced to America. On July 19th, 1885 three youthful Hawaiian princes appeared on the beach near the San Lorenzo River in Santa Cruz. They were enjoying summer vacation away from school, surfing like they did back home, and many onlookers became interested in the idea. Americans began surfing, and eventually, the Santa Cruz Surfing Club was formed to promote the sport.