The 2026 Waterman’s Ball, hosted by the Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA), will take place on Friday, July 17th, at The Ranch at Laguna Beach. A cornerstone event for the surf industry, Waterman’s Ball brings together 200 leaders, executives, and surf enthusiasts to celebrate industry icons while raising funds to protect oceans, beaches, and waves.

Since its inception in 1989, Waterman’s Ball has raised more than $10 million in support of organizations dedicated to combating ocean pollution, preserving surf breaks, and safeguarding marine ecosystems.

This year’s event will honor three individuals and organizations who have made a lasting impact on surfing and ocean conservation:

• Greg MacGillivray will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. A legendary filmmaker and ocean advocate, MacGillivray has spent decades capturing the power and beauty of the ocean through iconic IMAX films while inspiring global audiences to appreciate and protect our planet’s waters.

• Matt Biolos will be recognized as Waterperson of the Year. As one of the most influential surfboard shapers of his generation and founder of …Lost Surfboards, Biolos has helped shape modern surfing through innovation, performance design, and a deep connection to surf culture.

• Save The Waves Coalition will be awarded Environmentalist of the Year. This global nonprofit is dedicated to protecting surf ecosystems around the world, working to preserve waves, coastlines, and the communities that depend on them through science, policy, and advocacy.

“I’m proud to be honored with this recognition, by the SIMA board. A board of my peers. To share the night with Greg MacGillivary, whose films shaped a generation of surf culture and with Save The Waves, who are working so more generations can continue our surf culture, makes it even more meaningful.  I’ve never thought of myself a “Waterman” per se, at least in the true sense of the word. So many incredible athletes and complete Watermen and Women have shared this honor…So I’m humbled. I’m  more of a “FactoryMan”, spending my entire adult life in surfboard factories. To be chosen for this honor, on the basis of my work, out of the water, really means a lot”, Said Matt Biolos, ...Lost Surfboards, by Mayhem

This year’s featured artist is Hawaii-based Heather Brown, whose bold, vibrant style has become synonymous with modern surf culture. Her work captures the joy, movement, and color of life in and around the ocean and reflects the same spirit that defines Waterman’s Ball, celebrating the connection between people, waves, and community, making her a natural fit for this year’s event.

SIMA and Waterman’s Ball are grateful for the continued support of major sponsors Audi and Surf Expo.

Proceeds from the event benefit the SIMA Environmental Fund, which provides grants to organizations committed to preserving and protecting oceans, beaches, and waves.

For more information and to purchase tickets and tables or donate to the auction, please contact Vipe Desai at vipe@surfindustry.org