Join us at the MAH this First Friday for an amazing talk about Santa Cruz history from 6-7pm, and enjoy the museum for free for the whole day! Featured in our Princes of Surf 2025 exhibition is Dorothy Alden Becker, a champion swimmer and one of the first women to pioneer surfing in mainland USA. Dorothy’s grandson, Ed Guzman, along with Princes of Surf collaborator Bob Pearson, will lead a special conversation celebrating Dorothy Becker’s remarkable life and lasting impact on the surf culture of Santa Cruz.

While you’re here make sure to check out Princes of Surf 2025: Heʻe Nalu Santa Cruz! The exhibition spotlights how three Hawaiian princes—David Kawananakoa, Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana’ole, and Edward Keliiahonui— introduced surfing to the U.S. mainland via Santa Cruz in 1885 and rode the wave of legacy and relevance to Santa Cruz County. The gallery features over 50 surfboards, including replicas of the original Hawaiian red-wood boards, and is on our second floor Solari Gallery.

Also come see our brand new exhibition: Ed Penniman: Landscapes of Home. Santa Cruz artist Ed Penniman’s paintings convey his deep appreciation for life and the natural beauty of the region, shaped by his experiences of overcoming adversity. Located on our third floor Art Forum gallery, and filled to the brim with scenic, paintings of our beautiful state.