Pa'ia, Maui, and Hale'iwa, O'ahu, are on the list of "Ten Best Surf Towns in America" in the July issue of Surfer magazine.

Hale'iwa is ranked No. 2 on the list, thanks primarily to its "hands-down the best surf in America."

Pa'ia is No. 4. The article states: "while the waves on Maui's north shore may not carry the clout of O'ahu's north-facing equivalent, Pa'ia serves as an essential blend of consistent surf, a laid-back vibe, and all the ingredients for a healthy surf lifestyle."

Santa Cruz, Calif., was ranked No. 1, because: "If abundant surf, close proximity to the West Coast's most metropolitan city (San Francisco is a 90-minute car ride away), a low-key but thriving art scene, great wine, and access to massive expanses of natural beauty are things you enjoy, Santa Cruz will inspire you."

According to the article, the list was compiled "primarily quality of life and quality of surf, but also taking into account other variables such as climate, consistency and variety of waves, cost of living, culture, availability of work, and the prevalence of sharks."

OTHER CITIES TO MAKE THE LIST

Ocean City, N.J. (10)

New Smyrna Beach, Fla. (9)

Montauk, N.Y. (8)

Malibu, Calif. (7)

Kill Devil Hills, N.C. (6)

San Clemente, Calif. (5)

Encinitas, Calif. (3)

DOZENS OF HAWAI'I SURFERS AT NSSA MEET

Around 100 youth surfers from Hawai'i are competing in the NSSA National Championships, which started this week at San Clemente, Calif.

It is considered the top event in America for scholastic surfers. Hawai'i has numerous contenders for individual titles, including defending national champions Leila Hurst, Koa Smith, Kalani David and Keanu Asing. The competition will run every day through June 27.

BRUCE IRONS TOPS 'ALL-STAR' VOTING

Kaua'i's Bruce Irons finished first in the fan voting for the 2009 Surfing All Stars.

Fans could vote online to determine the six open spots for the all-star event. Irons was the only Hawai'i surfer to finish among the top six. Andy Irons, Bruce's older brother, was previously awarded one of the four guaranteed spots in the all-star event.

Ten "all-stars" of surfing will participate in various events during the Hurley U.S. Open of Surfing next month at Huntington Beach, Calif.

ALL-MILITARY SURF CONTEST THIS WEEKEND

The HIC/Quiksilver All Military Surf Classic is scheduled to run tomorrow and Sunday at White Plains Beach.

More than 200 competitors are expected. The contest is open to all active United States military personnel, retirees, and dependents.