Island in the fun!

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Island in the fun!

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Dec 18, 2013

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Aussie Mick Fanning, a two-time world-champ surfer, is ready to make waves in Long Beach. Karen Wilson/AFP/Getty Images

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By far the biggest name competing in the Quiksilver Pro, Kelly Slater, 39, is considered the Michael Jordan of surfing. The 10-time ASP world champion — and current world leader — holds the distinction of being both the youngest and the oldest surfer to win the world title.

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Top surfer Kelly Slater

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South Africa native Jordy Smith has been riding waves since age 6. In the surfing world, Smith, now 23, is considered a leader of the movement of moving above the wave — a k a aerials. Kirstin Scholtz/AP

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Aussie surfer Joel Parkinson, 30, who goes by the nickname of “Parko,” spent his childhood surfing point breaks around the world and loves to fish and play soccer. Kirstin Scholtz/ASP via Getty Images

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A two-time world champ, Mick Fanning, 30, hails from New South Wales, Australia. He favors point-break waves — where waves hit land or rocks sticking out from the coastline. Getty Images

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The Quiksilver Pro being in Long Beach is particularly special for Balaram Stack, who turns 20 on Monday. He hails from nearby Point Lookout and was selected as one of the two wild cards for the competition. “I never would have thought of [the Quiksilver Pro] happening here,” he says. “It doesn’t compare [to other surf events] . . . it’s the top 34 guys in the world, and it’s really going to be an experience.”

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It’s hard to get bored choosing equipment at Unsound Surf in Long Beach. Zandy Mangold

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Pal Kadee Medrano (left) and Natalie Orellana check out tops at Ooh La La for a breezy beach visit. Zandy Mangold

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A strawberry margarita from Lola’s Kitchen and Wine Bar Zandy Mangold

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Surf parties at Lola’s include strawberry daiquiries and other thirst quenchers. Zandy Mangold

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Try Nutella-doused banana crepes at Fresco Creperie & Cafe after riding — or watching — the wild surf. Zandy Mangold

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Minnesota’s serves up beer and surf-themed cocktails. Zandy Mangold

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