SHOP CHRONICLES - HANSEN'S SURFBOARDS IN ENCINITAS, CA
Over the years, we’ve had the honor to visit, get to know and work with some of the greatest surf shops in the country. In this series, we will highlight a few of our favorites and what makes them iconic staples in their local surf communities. Hansen Surfboards, one of San Diego’s oldest and most beloved establishments, was an easy first choice.
Don Hansen, legendary surfer, shaper and founder of Hansen Surfboards, came a long way from his birthplace in Redfield, South Dakota. After watching a surf film while attending college in the ‘50s, Don hitchhiked across the country to San Diego and fell in love with the sport. He took to it immediately, traveling up and down the coast and learning each break. During this time, he fully immersed himself in the surf lifestyle and learned from other legends like Jack O'Neill, Hobie and Jacobs. In 1961 he made the ultimate surf pilgrimage to Hawaii's North Shore. While surfing Haleiwa, he was photographed for the cover of Surfer Magazine and made his first major mark in the industry.
After heading back to California and taking up roots in Encinitas, Don founded his namesake shop in 1961, opening its doors a stone's throw away from beloved break, Swamis. His legacy grew as a shaper and businessman, putting boards under the feet and outfitting the region's best surfers. As decades of surf culture continued on, the Hansen legacy grew. Don became one of the most sought after surfboard manufacturers in the world and the shop grew into an essential destination for hard core beach rats and visiting tourists alike. To this day, Hansen Surfboards remains a family business and true heritage surf shop. It is a cornerstone of the local Encinitas beach community and amazing place to spend time and shop.
If you’re in town, make sure to stop in and say hello and check out our new O'Neill Mens section.
*Fun fact, our current O’Neill Clothing CEO Daniel Neukomm held his first job at Hansen Surfboards, working the floor and folding tee shirts. Things really do come full circle!
Looking to spend the day in Encinitas? Check out these other classic locations!
SWAMI'S CAFE
Right next door to Hansen’s, stop in for a quick lunch.
RAUL’S SHACK
Eat like a true local and visit Raul’s Shack on D street. It’s the best!
KOI PONDS
The koi ponds and views at SRF Encinitas Temple are not to be missed, located across the street and overlooking the world famous Swamis surf break.
LA PALAMO THEATRE
Catch a movie at Encinitas original and San Diego’s oldest movie theater, opened in 1928!
