The First Annual Spicy Ricey Surf Contest will take place Saturday, March 7, on Pensacola Beach alongside the Gulf Coast Whale Festival, bringing together surfers, families, and the Gulf Coast community for a day of competition with a cause.
More than just a surf contest, Spicy Ricey was created to raise awareness and support for the Rice’s whale — one of the most endangered and least-known whale species in the world. The Rice’s whale is endemic to the Gulf of Mexico, meaning it exists nowhere else on Earth, and faces ongoing threats from vessel strikes, noise pollution, and habitat disruption.
The event blends grassroots surf culture with environmental stewardship, using the sport as a platform to educate and inspire care for the Gulf ecosystem surfers depend on.
“This contest is about honoring the ocean that gives us so much,” said event organizers. “We wanted to create something fun and competitive that also shines a light on a species that calls these same waters home — and needs our help.”
The contest will feature multiple divisions with four-man heats and finals running throughout the day, depending on conditions. Surfers of varying ages and skill levels will compete in a relaxed but high-energy beach environment designed to welcome spectators, families, and visitors.
Beyond the competition, the event will run alongside the Gulf Coast Whale Festival, which includes music, local vendors, food, and opportunities to learn more about the Rice’s whale and broader Gulf conservation efforts. Attendance is free and open to the public.
All surfer registration, heat draws, and live scoring will be managed through LiveHeats, while event updates, schedules, and announcements will be shared via Instagram.
Event Details
- What: Spicy Ricey Surf Contest
- When: Saturday, March 7, 2026
- Where: Pensacola Beach, Florida
- Purpose: Raise awareness and support for the endemic Rice’s whale
- Registration & Heats: https://liveheats.com/events/460001
- Updates & Media: Instagram — @spicyriceysurf
- Cost to Compete: $40
- Cost to Attend: Free
Community members, surfers, and beachgoers are encouraged to follow @spicyriceysurf on Instagram for real-time updates and event information leading up to the contest.
