If you have ever been to Cardiff by the Sea, chances are you have stopped to look at the Cardiff Kook statue.
The Cardiff Kook statue is giant sculpture of a surfer. This statue is well known for being consistently decorated by the surrounding community. Seemingly every day you will find it decorated in some funky new outfit.
After living down the road in Encinitas for many years, I’ve learned the Cardiff Kook statue’s origins and have seen it dressed in many outfits. Find out what this statue is actually all about and what it means to the local community.
Where is the Cardiff Kook Statue?
The Cardiff Kook Statue is in Cardiff, California aka Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Cardiff is a township in Northern San Diego County, adjacent with Encinitas. It a popular beach and surfing community first colonized by the Spanish in 1769.
The Kook statue resides along the Coast Highway at the intersection of Chesterfield Drive. It is directly in front of Cardiff Reef, one of the best surf waves in the area. This beach is also home to tide pools and the San Elijo State Beach campground.
101 Chesterfield Drive, Encinitas, CA will take you directly to the Kook. The statue is the corner of a busy intersection. If you plan to stop and take photos, find an open space to parallel park along the Coast Highway.
Cardiff Kook History Lesson
In 2007, the Cardiff Botanical Soceity commissioned construction of a 6 foot bronze sculpture to enhance the community’s artistic landscape. It cost about $120,000.
Matthew Antichevich was the artist chosen to build the Cardiff Kook statue. Initially, the sculpture was meant to embody a talented surfer. However, the intricacies of this design were not within budget. As such, it depicts a young boy learning to surf and embodies a whimsical charm that resonates with both locals and tourists.
Antichevich’s vision brought forth a figure that quickly captured hearts and sparked conversations. Upon its introduction, the Cardiff Kook Statue elicited a spectrum of reactions, from awe to controversy. Its unconventional design and playful nature challenged conventional art norms, initiating dialogues on the fusion of creativity and community identity. Despite initial skepticism, the statue’s allure and distinctiveness gradually won over even the most critical observers.
While this statue is known today as the Cardiff Kook, the official and original name emblazoned on the statue is ‘Magic Carpet Ride.’
Why do People Decorate the Cardiff Kook?
Originally, pranksters were drawn to dress up the Cardiff Kook statue with unique themes and even entire backdrops. The statue has adorned everything from skirts, masks, Santa outfits, skeleton outfits, celebrities and much more!
Decorating the Kook got crazy enough that Mayor discouraged people from doing it. However, there is really no law against the vandalism since the city knows it attracts tourists. Today the local community continues to dress up the Kook largely surrounding events like Holidays, sports competitions, graduations and birthdays.
This tradition of dressing up the statue in various costumes has really become a pastime, reflecting the community’s creativity and sense of playfulness. The presence of the Cardiff Kook continues to attract tourists, social media, and media attention. Check out the many outfits of the Cardiff Kook below!
Cardiff Kook Outfit Image Gallery
Pro Tip: The early morning and late afternoon hours have the best lighting for capturing the Kook by photo!
What is the Meaning of Kook to Surfers?
Surfers hold a unique perspective on the term “kook,” which is often used within the surfing community to describe someone who lacks experience or skill in the water. To surfers, being labeled a “kook” can carry both negative and humorous connotations. It signifies a person who may not understand surfing etiquette, struggles with basic techniques, or simply stands out as inexperienced among more seasoned surfers.
In some cases, being labeled a ‘kook’ is more than an insult. It can serve as a reminder to newcomers to approach surfing with humility, learn from more experienced surfers, and embrace the journey of growth and improvement in the sport. However, in most cases, the kook label is all in good natured fun! To find out if you are a kook or not, take our short quiz.
So, next time you are passing through Cardiff-by-the-Sea, go take your photo with the kook! Subscribe below for more local tips and San Diego insider information.
