Our Motto

From 32ºF to 32ºC

Our motto means we surf in all the temps between warm and cold in whatever winds the Great Lakes gives us. It also represents that we are women from all kinds - we are all different ages, abilities, faces, sizes, and backgrounds. No matter who you are, you matter to us, and we want you to feel the special joy that Great Lakes waters can give.

The Start

Lake Surfistas started off as an idea to bring together the ever-growing number of women discovering the joy, fun, and community of surfing, SUP, and SUP surfing the Great Lakes and beyond. With this in mind, the very first Ladies of the Lakes Beach Day took place at Pleasant Beach in 2014.

The Original founders, Lisa Parkes - an artist and surfer from Cobourg; and Robin Pacquing - an instructor and established GL surfer; are passionate water keepers. Their understanding that the female community of water women can only lead to further education and preservation of the Great Lakes.

Growing Community

With success of the annual “Ladies of the Lakes” Beach Day, the community branched out and created the Lake Surfistas Discussion Page on Facebook; a page where women can discuss all matters of local Great Lakes surf in a safe and inclusive space.

We are fortunate to collaborate with other groups, and to provide surf resources in the form of workshops, representation, and events.

The most beautiful thing is seeing the incredible connections and friendships form between members within the Lake Surfistas community!

Our Future

Our future is dependant on the support of others. We are honoured to be able to extend ourselves to the women who surf and SUP the Great Lakes; and to groups who support sustainable practices for the health of our planet as a whole.

Consider donating to Lake Surfistas today!