Makaha 1965 Women’s Surf Title — A Surfing Legacy

In the mid‑1960s, the Makaha International Surfing Championships stood as one of the most important competitive events in the surf world. Held annually on the rugged west shore of O‘ahu, Hawaii, the contest brought together the best surfers from across the Pacific and beyond. Though called “international,” this event was about more than trophies — it was about shaping the identity of modern surfing itself.

For women competitors in 1965, Makaha presented both a challenge and an opportunity. Surf contests then were still establishing divisions and respect for women’s performance in the waves, and those who competed did so with drive and determination that helped expand the recognition of female surfers. One of the most iconic figures of that period was Joyce Hoffman, a Californian surfer widely recognized as a pioneer for women in competitive surfing. Hoffman collected multiple titles through the 1960s, including victories at the Makaha International and the World Championships in Peru — achievements that helped push women’s surfing into the spotlight. 

The Trophy and Its Story

The 1965 Women’s 1st Place trophy — now preserved as part of Malibu Shirts’ historical collection — represents more than just a win. Crafted with elegant forms and traditional materials, it symbolizes an era when competitive surfing was growing up, and when women surfers were claiming space alongside their male counterparts. It’s a piece of surf culture that echoes the passion, courage, and style of its era.

Makaha Beach was the birthplace of competitive surfing as many know it today. Before the North Shore’s legendary Pipeline and Waimea Bay became synonymous with big wave contests, *Makaha* was where the world’s best gathered to ride powerful Pacific swells and test their skill against nature and one another. The event contributed greatly to Hawaii’s identity as the heart of surf culture. 

A Legacy Preserved

Today, that 1965 Women’s 1st Place trophy resides within one of Malibu Shirts’ store museum galleries, where historic artifacts sit alongside apparel and collections curated in homage to surf heritage. It’s a tangible reminder of how far the sport has come, and how big waves, strong riders, and famous shores like Makaha helped define surfing as both a discipline and a lifestyle.

Delve into the era and celebrate surf history with our Makaha Surfing Championships Collection, inspired by the contest that helped shape the sport’s international story.

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