Growing Up in Santa Cruz

May 2021

Jessica Benet

25 years Surfing

Tell us about an intense or fun surfing memory

Some of my best memories are growing up surfing with my dad and my older brother and I look forward to sharing that stoke with my own kids.

What is your occupation

Landscape Designer

Do you have any significant community involvement?

I enjoy catching up with the regulars every time I paddle out at the lane.

Tell us something unique about you as a mother who surfs with/without your kiddos

I have a background in marine biology, so I have fun teaching my son about ocean life both above and below the water.

What is your most memorable surf moment with your kids?

My kiddo is only 3, so right now he lays on the front of our long board on small days at the point. At this stage, each time we take him out its memorable because everything is so new. Most times its not even the waves that gets him excited, its just being out there, or being close to a sea otter.

What are some challenges of surfing related to motherhood?

Finding time. I’m also 7.5 months pregnant so I’m stuck drooling at every swell while cheerleading from the sidelines. Other mamas out in the water know the feeling, but most surfers have no idea how hard it is, both mentally and physically, to get back in the water after pregnancy.

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