For Aleia Keating Anderson, surfing is a way of life, woven into her family’s history for generations. Growing up in Pedro Point, California, she was immersed in a surf-rich environment from birth. With generations of surfers in her family, Aleia’s connection to the ocean runs deep.
Aleia’s surf journey started as early as she can remember. Her great-grandparents moved to Pedro Point in the 1940s, and since then, surfing has been ingrained in her family’s identity. Her grandparents live on a boat dock, right in front of one of her favorite peeling left-hand waves.
One of her earliest surf memories isn’t catching her first wave—it’s tandem surfing with her parents and aunt. But one moment stands out: “I was about five years old, surfing with my uncle Jordy when a big set rolled in. He put me on his shoulders and, at the end of the wave, launched me into the air over the back as he rode on.”
For Aleia, surfing is about more than the waves—it’s about the people. “When I paddle out and see everyone I love surfing, it fills me with joy,” she says. Her family and friends inspire her to push herself in the water, and she describes her longboarding style as graceful—a reflection of her deep love for the sport.
However, she’s also faced challenges in the lineup. “Sometimes, when a guy paddles out to our home break, he burns me and my cousin Kai—probably because we’re young girls,” Aleia explains. But she and Kai have their own way of handling it. “We have a special signal to let each other know we’re going to burn the person back at whatever cost.” It’s a playful but powerful reminder of the confidence and resilience she’s developed through surfing.
What Aleia loves most about longboarding is its versatility. “Longboarding is so unique, and that’s why I love it. There are so many different ways to ride, and you can almost show emotion through your surfing,” she says.
Her first experience at Queen Of The Point came through her auntie, Asi, who introduced her to the event. Competing in an all-women’s contest was a special experience. “The energy was insane. It meant so much to be surrounded by stoke and support,” Aleia recalls.
Since then, QOTP has pushed her to become a better surfer. “All the girls challenge me to level up my surfing. It’s also opened up new opportunities, introduced me to amazing people, and taken me to places I never expected.”
Beyond her own surfing, Aleia is dedicated to giving back. She teaches the next generation by working at a surf camp in the summer and volunteering with A Walk On Water, an organization that provides surf therapy to children with disabilities.
Balancing school, water polo, and surfing can be challenging, but she finds time whenever she can. “After school and before water polo practice, I try to squeeze in a surf. On weekends and during breaks, it’s easier, but juggling everything isn’t always simple.”
Aleia’s advice for young girls who want to surf is simple: keep going and don’t give up. “If you push yourself and work hard, you’ll overcome your fears. Stay positive, be nice in the water, and always have fun.”
For Aleia, surfing is a lifelong journey, filled with lessons and moments of pure joy. “A good wave can change your mind and body. Surfing has taught me to appreciate life—and that the second you get overconfident, the ocean will check you.”
When it comes to leaving a legacy, Aleia hasn’t thought about it too much just yet. But one thing is certain—she hopes to spread the stoke and inspire others to embrace surfing with the same love and passion that fuels her every session.
