By Keith Kyle,
One of the highlights of summer in Manhattan and Hermosa Beach is the annual Surf Festival. Only in the South Bay can a festival include events such as the pier to pier swim (between Hermosa and Manhattan piers), surf contests, lifeguard competions and relays, paddle surfing, body surfing competition, sand castle competion, beach running races and the highlight of the event which is the Charlie Saikley 6 man volleyball tournament. Always a fan favorite, the 6 man tournament offers both mens and women’s brackets with levels going from the “just out having fun” to teams composed of current and former pro volleyball players. To add to the festive atmosphere many/most of the teams dress up in various costumes including the WWF team (that puts a wrestling ring around their half of the court), to the Lakers 
comprised of former pros and even former LA Lakers.
In addition to the variety of competitons for adults, there are also a number of competitions for kids. This is one of the most entertaining events of the summer.
Known as the “international surf festival” it truly is a global affair with athletes and lifeguards coming from as far away as Australia to compete.