Sheboygan's reputation as a 'surf city' grows

Sheboygan, Wisconsin's Lake Michigan beach lore continues to grow with recognition by two national publications. iVillage, a media company owned by NBC Universal, has named Sheboygan one of the nation's top "family beaches." Citing its international surf reputation and paddleboarding competitions, the "Malibu of the Midwest" is quickly becoming a top beach destination. iVillage also recognized Turks & Caicos, Paradise Island and Maui.

That's not bad company, according to Sheboygan Tourism Director Amy Wilson. "Sheboygan is quickly becoming recognized as one of the best Midwest destinations for freshwater surfing and standup paddleboarding," she confirmed.

In June 2010, the city established a new tourism department with an increased focus on the city's unique surf culture. "From surf enthusiasts to leisure travelers looking for a grassroots, beachside atmosphere, people have certainly responded to the message. Add local Sheboygan amenities like good bike trails, Terre Andre State Park and the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, there is something for everyone," Wilson said.

Another recent accolade came from the Discovery Channel, which plugged Sheboygan as one of the "top eight places in the world to surf the perfect wave without the ocean," adding, "you don't need to find a massive body of water to find the perfect wave. Thanks to odd natural conditions, some rivers and lakes can be great places to hang ten."

The only other American site to make the "top eight" was Jackson Hole's Snake River, where a narrow canyon produces a rush of surfable water.

The Discovery Channel credited Sheboygan's unique geography that generates wind-blown waves and recommends checking out the annual Dairyland Surf Classic. Sheboygan hosts the Pacifico Dairyland Classic Surf and Paddle Event on Labor Day weekend.

The Dairyland Surf Classic is the unofficial start of the Midwest surfing season. Held annually since 1988, it kicks off the Sheboygan surfing season. Organizers claim it is the largest gathering of freshwater surfers in the world. If conditions allow, official surf competition is held and serves as a qualifier for the Eastern Surfing Association Championships. The Dairyland Classic benefits the Surf Rider Foundation, whose activities and campaigns are aimed at protecting oceans & beaches.

Pacifico Dairyland Classic schedule of events

All events take place at Sheboygan's north side beach in Deland Park

Fri., Aug. 31, 6:30-10 p.m.: Open house at EOS Expedition Outdoor Supply and Surf Shop, including live music, raffles and door prizes

Sat., Sept. 1, 9 a.m.: Eastern Surfing Association sponsored competition (waves permitting)

1 p.m.: Individual pro paddle competition (21 yrs. or older)

3 p.m.: Four-person paddle relay (at least 1 female per team)

3:30 p.m.: Standup paddleboarding competition

5 p.m.: Aloha Awards Banquet and raffle at the Richardson Center Outdoor Picnic Area (located just south of beach area), grills and picnic tables provided, event to include live music

Sun., Sept. 2, 9 a.m.: Eastern Surfing Association sponsored competition (waves permitting)

Mon., Sept. 3, 9 a.m.: Eastern Surfing Association sponsored competition (waves permitting)