Our Motto
From 32ºF to 32ºC
Our motto reflects the spirit of riding the waves in every season: through warm sunshine, icy winds, and everything in between that the Great Lakes offer. It also speaks to who we are: women of all ages, abilities, sizes, faces, and backgrounds. No matter your story, you belong here, and we want you to experience the unique joy and connection that only the Great Lakes can bring.
The Start
Lake Surfistas began with a simple idea: to bring together the growing number of women discovering the joy, fun, and community of surfing, SUP, and SUP surfing on the Great Lakes and beyond. Inspired by this vision, the very first Ladies of the Lakes Beach Day was held at Pleasant Beach in 2014.
Founded by artist and surfer Lisa Parkes of Cobourg, and instructor and established Great Lakes surfer Robin Pacquing, Lake Surfistas was built on a shared passion for the water. Both are dedicated water keepers who believe that empowering women on the lakes naturally leads to deeper education, stronger community, and lasting stewardship of the Great Lakes.
Growing Community
Building on the success of the annual Ladies of the Lakes Beach Day, the community expanded with the creation of the Lake Surfistas Discussion Page on Facebook;—a safe and inclusive space where women can connect and share all things related to Great Lakes surf.
Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to collaborate with other groups and to offer resources through workshops, events, and representation within the surf and SUP community.
What continues to inspire us most is the incredible connections and lasting friendships that have blossomed within the Lake Surfistas community.
Our Future
Our future depends on the support of others. We are honored to serve the women who surf and SUP the Great Lakes, and to partner with groups that align with our mission and champion sustainable practices for the health of our planet.
You can help keep our community thriving! Consider making a donation to Lake Surfistas today!