Photos by William Thornley Photography
Each summer, the shores of Folly Beach, South Carolina, transform into a celebration of female strength, camaraderie, and surf culture with the Folly Beach Wahine Classic (FBWC). Hosted at the iconic surf destination known as the Washout, this annual all-girls surf contest has grown into the largest female-only competition on the East Coast — and South Carolina’s only one of its kind. With more than 250 competitors and countless fans and families, the Classic has become a tradition rooted in empowerment, community, and, of course, the love of the ocean.
What sets the Wahine Classic apart from other surfing competitions is its mission. While surfing has long been viewed as a male-dominated sport, the Wahine is all about breaking barriers. It provides a stage for women and girls of all ages and skill levels — from first-timers to seasoned pros — to gain confidence, foster friendships, and showcase the power of the female surf community.
“The Folly Wahine is about building confidence, camaraderie, and sharing the strength of the female surf community from first timers to seasoned pros and every wahine in between,” organizers explain. “It’s about making surfing more accessible to women of all ages and abilities.”
Since its start, the Classic has continued to evolve, attracting larger crowds and more competitors, yet always maintaining a warm, family-friendly vibe. The beach becomes a hub of energy, with vendors, sponsors, families, and spectators cheering on the surfers in an atmosphere that’s described as nothing short of electric.
This year brought one of the event’s most nail-biting finishes: in the Pro Longboard division, the top three winners were separated by just one-tenth of a point. “Every wave mattered,” organizers recall, as the crowd held its breath while the athletes pushed to the very last ride.
The Wahine Classic is proud to welcome newcomers alongside its seasoned competitors. This year’s Novice division saw 28 first-time surfers, while the Girls division (ages 12–16) had a record-breaking 44 participants, proof of the growing popularity of the sport among young women.
Among the most inspiring stories is that of Penny Beightol, now competing in the Menehune Division (11 and under). Penny’s surfing journey began in the Teenie Wahine push-in division, when her dad helped her catch her very first wave. That first year, Penny received a trophy bigger than she was — and she’s been hooked ever since. Today, her story reflects the experience of many young girls who have been inspired to dive into surfing through events like the Classic.
Local businesses, sponsors, and vendors play a vital role in bringing the Wahine Classic to life. From providing prizes, food, and drinks to cheering from the sidelines, community support is what keeps the event thriving year after year.
“The Folly Beach surfing community is about respect — for the ocean and for each other,” say organizers. And it’s this spirit of respect, combined with the thrill of competition, that makes the Wahine Classic so special.
As the event continues to grow, its mission remains the same: to celebrate women in surfing and to strengthen the community that surrounds them. Organizers hope to keep supporting female surfers while partnering with local ocean-based nonprofits to extend the event’s impact beyond the waves.
For those who’ve never attended, it’s more than just a surf contest. Attendees walk away with a deeper appreciation for the strength of women, the power of community, and the spirit of Folly Beach.
The Wahine Classic is a reminder that surfing is not just about riding waves — it’s about creating them, together.
Folly Beach Wahine Classic: Quick Facts
Where: The Washout, Folly Beach, South Carolina
When: Held annually each summer
Who Competes:
First-timers in the Novice Division (28 competitors this year!)
Young surfers in the Girls Division (12–16) — record 44 participants in 2025
Pros in the Longboard + Shortboard Divisions
The tiniest competitors in the Teenie Wahine Push-In Division
Standout 2025 Moment:
The Pro Longboard final heat came down to just 1/10th of a point separating the top three — every wave mattered!
Why It Matters:
Largest all-girls surf contest on the East Coast
South Carolina’s only all-female surf competition
Builds confidence, camaraderie, and visibility for women in a traditionally male-dominated sport
Why You Should Go Next Year:
Family-friendly atmosphere
High-energy surf action
Vendors, food, and local business support
An inspiring celebration of women and girls in surfing