PLANNING AHEAD FOR THE QUIKSILVER PRO
No doubt, the crowds are going to be crazy when international media, surfers and spectators descend on Long Beach during the first two weeks of September. Key to avoiding the bedlam is planning. Here’s what to know in advance:
WHEN AND WHERE:
The trials for the second of two wildcard spots in the main competition will run from Thurs., Sept. 1 through Sat., Sept. 3 at the National Boulevard beach site.
The music, skatepark and full-on festival with food and beverage tents between Edwards and Long Beach boulevards will kick off Sept. 3, running 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends.
The festival side-events and concerts will conclude Saturday, Sept. 10, but the surf tournament may run through Thurs., Sept. 15 if the best four days of sizeable surf doesn’t arrive by then.
HOW MUCH:
Although the event and concert is free, beach access requires a $12 daily pass until after Labor Day, which falls on Monday, Sept. 5. The festival site itself is on the street side of the boardwalk, not on the beach.
ALTERNATIVES:
The competition will be broadcast on MSG network and webcast live on quiksilverpro.com.
PARKING:
Limited parking will be available and spectators are urged to use mass transit or park at Jones Beach State Park Field 2, where shuttles will run daily to and from the event.
ALSO:
As always when beach-bound, bring sunscreen!
