Onda Launches AI-Driven App for Personalized Surfing Experience

On July 16, 2025, Onda, a tech startup focused on enhancing the surfing experience, unveiled a free application designed specifically for surfers. The launch, which began in Northern California, aims to provide personalized weather forecasts and facilitate communication among users. Quincy Carroll, founder and CEO of Onda, expressed the motivation behind the app's development, stating, "We built Onda because we were tired of missing good sessions. Most surf apps are just weather data in disguise. Onda makes it personal. It's like having a surf guide who knows your break, your level, and your performance."

The app is available for download on both Apple's App Store and Google Play. According to the company, Onda, which translates to "wave" in Spanish, is designed to become the go-to platform for surfers of all skill levels seeking better wave conditions and community engagement.

Developed by a team of lifelong surfers alongside product and AI experts, the app leverages data from reputable sources including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Coastal Data Information Program (CDIP) to deliver accurate wave measurements and forecasts. Users receive personalized surf recommendations that include updates on wave size, wind direction, and tide windows, ensuring they can make informed decisions about when and where to surf.

In a further effort to foster community interaction, the app allows users to coordinate dawn patrols, share surf stories, and track their surf sessions. Users can engage with the app's AI capabilities to ask questions such as, "Where should I paddle out right now?" or "Will the swell hold through the weekend?" This innovative feature not only enhances the surfing experience but also builds a sense of camaraderie among the surfing community.

Onda also emphasizes sustainability, partnering with Treeswax, a local provider of eco-friendly surf wax, to promote environmentally friendly practices among surfers. The company is set to distribute Treeswax at various locations in Santa Cruz, Pacifica, and Ocean Beach throughout the week, culminating in a launch party at the Steamer Lane Lighthouse in Santa Cruz on August 1.

The significance of Onda's app lies in its potential to revolutionize the surfing experience by combining technology with a deep understanding of surfing culture. As Stormrider notes, "Northern California is truly a land of feast or famine" regarding surf conditions. The app aims to bridge the gap between unpredictable weather patterns and surfers' desires for optimal conditions.

As the app gains traction, it could reshape how surfers interact with their environment and each other, positioning Onda as a significant player in the surf technology industry. The broader implications of this technological advancement reflect a growing trend in outdoor sports, where personalized and community-driven experiences enhance participants' enjoyment and connection to their hobbies.

In conclusion, Onda's innovative approach to surf forecasting and community engagement represents a crucial step forward in integrating technology into traditional outdoor sports. As the app continues to evolve and expand, it holds the promise of enhancing the surfing lifestyle for enthusiasts across Northern California and beyond.