Life of San Francisco Surfer, Pamela Campbell
Pamela Campbell isn’t your typical San Francisco resident. As a new mother, full time employee, and local influencer, the New Jersey native still makes time for a regular saltwater fix. We aren’t talking just any dip in the sea, but some quality time at one of California’s toughest lineups to conquer, Ocean Beach.
Campbell lives with her surf addicted husband, grom, and rescue dogs right in front of the treacherous beach break. After 15 years of surf life in Ocean Beach, Campbell has made a name for herself amongst the local scene, and knows a thing or two about their unique community.
The Quiver interviewed Pamela Campbell about her take on the San Francisco surf scene, and the ideal boards for paddling out in the heavy, frigid, shifting conditions that Ocean Beach is famous for.
Pamela Campbell: I was born in New Jersey. My home break is Ocean Beach, San Francisco.
How were you introduced to surfing?
PC: My paternal grandmother, father and uncles had body surfed Ocean Grove and LBI on the Jersey Shore since the 50’s, so they inspired and taught me about wavesliding and respect for the ocean once I hit the scene. The ocean has always been one of those places I felt very comfortable and couldn't get enough of.
What makes San Francisco surf so unique?
PC: We all know it's mostly composed of a heavy, coldwater beachbreak bordering an urban area with some fickle points thrown in for good measure. That exists other places though. So, one could say it's unique because it's a major California city with waves that managed to remain out of mainstream surf consciousness until comparatively recently. It's also remarkable in that it heavily favors those who put in the time to endure the paddle and understand its constantly changing conditions.
How would you describe the Ocean Beach surf community?
PC: As you would expect from a major metropolitan area, very diverse and complete with all the best and worst aspects of surf culture. It's also grown a lot in the almost 15 years since I arrived - many more women, teenagers, multi-generations, different surf craft, lifestyles and a wide range of professions.
What models and surfboard designs are trending in the area?
PC: Handplanes are still trending. I see a lot of Merricks, Firewires, Losts and Hypto Krypto Future Flexes. Generally, shortboards and fishes with more volume than less. You don't see a lot of chippy boards as the beach tends to make short work of those.
Who are some prominent OB shapers, and where could we find more info on their boards?
PC: John Schultz, Tim Gras and James Mitchell at Sunset Shapers. Bill Hickey too, if you can find him.
Who are your favorite OB surf photographers?
PC: Grant Ly, Seth Migdail, JR Hussey, Pedro Bala, and Don Dianda.
What do you think about surfers helping surfers, renting boards in an AirBnB- style concept?
PC: I think it's an interesting concept. I’m all for reducing demand of any new item, especially those that are petroleum-based.
What's your go-to surfboard currently in your quiver?
PC: The balsa-skinned quad fish my husband shaped in 2009. It's a wave-catching performance board for knee-high mush to critical head-high waves, easy to turn and generate speed. He put a concave on the deck, so it's really comfortable to paddle, while its construction makes it super durable. We battle over who gets it when we've got someone to watch our little one. Someday, he'll shape another and then eventually, we'll have to do something about the kiddo competing for those boards.
For more day in the life moments with OB surfer Pamela Campbell follow her on Instagram: @saltedlife
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