Harbour Surfboards

Six Decades of Excellence

A Surfrider Sponsor Story

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

When life hands you a lemon...make surfboards.

That's what Rich Harbour did almost 60 years ago when someone stole his surfboard from his parents' garage. Just a teenager at the time, Harbour shaped another board to replace it. 

Before long other people wanted Harbour to make boards for them, too...and a business, Harbour Surfboards in Seal Beach, CA, was born in 1959.

A self-taught boardshaper creating classic surfboards when balsa and longboards ruled the waves, Harbour made a name for himself that is revered today. 

The company is widely recognized for its quality craftsmanship and trend-setting designs, making the surfboards - new and vintage alike - highly desired by surfers around the world. 

In addition to the countless watermen and women who keep paddling out on his surfboards, Harbour has won praise and awards for his contributions to surfing. A Surfrider Foundation sponsor, Harbour Surfboards believes in giving back to the community and in mentoring the next generation of surfers.

Harbour’s story is a testament to the American Dream of turning your passion into a successful business. In his book Harbour Chronicles he shares his personal story and tells about the things that have inspired him on his journey. 

 
The Surfing Heritage and Cultural Center recently honored Harbour with a retrospective and exhibit that included many of his historic boards on display. The center was packed as over 200 family members, friends and fans turned out to pay tribute to him.

 

Since launching his business Rich Harbour has produced more than 32,000 boards, numbering each one like a unique piece of art.

And, as surfers will tell you, each board is a masterpiece!   

  

SurfWriter Girls

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

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Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.