Shop Chronicles: Inside Harbour Surfboards

In our video series, “Surf Shop Chronicles”, we celebrate the most iconic surf shops in America-and none has a more storied local history than Harbour Surfboards, located in Seal Beach, California. The 60-year-old shop is rooted in the art of shaping high-quality surfboards, an ethos fostered by owner Rich Harbour, who crafted his first surfboard at the age of 16 in his parents’ garage. Since the opening of his eponymous enterprise in 1959, he and his team have created more than 32,000 boards.
Rich Harbour might be best known for his open-door policy--giving a home to some of surfing's greatest influences. Besides putting together an all-star surf team in the '60s--which included Jock Sutherland, Corky Carroll, Bill Fury, Herbie Fletcher, Mark Martinson, Richard Chew and countless other legends--Harbour was best known for his hands-on approach and making his surf shop a place for everyone to hang at. Dick Brewer spent his first year shaping under Harbour. Surf photographer and photo editor Larry "Flame" Moore's first water housing was built by Harbour. Steve Pezman spent his early journalism years hanging around the shop, as did Gerry Lopez during his California travels. Needless to stay, Harbour's generosity has left a mark on his community and continues to do so today.

[@johnsavala8202]

Thank you Rich for bringing so much stoke to so many people over the years. I believe the reason you have been so successful is the craftsmanship that you put in every individual board. I’m a true die hard Harbour customer. If it’s not a Harbour I won’t ride it.

[@njcav1]

Thank you Rich for a lifetime of Stoke! Been a Harbour fan for decades currently have 5 Harbour's in my Quiver

[@kionimoto]

What a Legend!

[@McRips]

Legend! Harbour San-O is my all time favorite board.

[@samuelharbour260]

Rich Harbour was my cousin

[@spencergroup]

What a great story of legend and history. The first time I surfed was in Seal Beach and a few years later I bought a used Harbour surfboard. Still have it. I always had a high regard for Harbour and after watching this it reminds me why.

[@cliffboule8395]

My first board, 50 years ago, was a Harbour. Still remember my first wave. Many boards since; wish I had that one.

[@booch326]

Bought a Trestle Special back in '67.
Harbour logo is one of the all-time classics!!!

[@kenjohnson8752]

I bought a surfboard at Harbour in the 70’s...this video brings back great memories!

[@ronwright5234]

I've been an admire of Rich since I've started surfing in 1970 just 11 years old. My 2nd board was a used Harbour, I don't remember the model, but it was a blast to ride I've since had other boards, but keep coming back to Harbour. My latest board is a 9'6" Plantain( love it) now I want to include a 9'8" Merlin, magical I hear. Much love for Harbour Surfboards and founder Rich 😎

[@Carlos-fh8wk]

Ron Wright I just put in an order on a 9’4” Plantain. How would you describe the board?

[@RyanAllenGoff]

See ya tomorrow Rich! 🙏🏼

[@erikmichaelsen6027]

what a beast

[@alohastateofmind3565]

Thank you Rich! Aloha O'e

[@genereynoldsakayoda5815]

RIP RICH.

[@Swayzeo]

Home Boys😎

[@rockarocky1384]

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