LA JOLLA – On Saturday, June 28, the surfing world paid its final respects to legendary surfer Mike Hynson at Windansea Beach in La Jolla with surfing’s greatest tribute: a paddle out.
More than 300 people lined the bluff with almost 200 people in the ocean to honor Hynson in the paddle out. San Diego lifeguards had their fire boat spray as his ashes were laid to rest in the ocean.
Of Hynson, his former wife, Melinda Merryweather of La Jolla, said: “I am so blessed and grateful for all the people that contributed and helped in his paddle out. As someone once said, ‘Elvis has left the building.’”
Concerning Hynson’s paddle out, Merryweather noted: “It was an amazing huge ‘love in.’ It was packed with surf stars. The feeling of the day was love and light and oneness. Our son paddled out with the ashes along with two of our four grandchildren. I am blessed to have been married to such an amazing human being.”
From left, well known surfer Herbie Fletcher, Mike Hynson Jr and longboarding world champion Joel Tudor, part of a huge turnout for Michael Hynson. (Photo by Don Balch/Special to La Jolla Village News) 
San Diego big wave riding luminary Jojo Roper prepares for the waterman’s circle. Over 300 people joined him. (Photo by Don Balch/Special to La Jolla Village News) 
San Diego lifeguards shot off their water cannons during the celebration of life for Mike Hynson.(Photo by Don Balch/Special to La Jolla Village News)
Hynson, a name synonymous with surfing’s golden age and the free-spirited culture of California, stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of wave riding. Born on June 28, 1942, in Crescent City, Hynson’s early years were shaped by frequent moves between Hawaii and Southern California, fostering a deep and lasting connection to the ocean.
Hynson’s family eventually settled in Pacific Beach, where Hynson immersed himself in the rebellious surf scene of San Diego, quickly rising as a standout talent.
Michael Hynson, a legendary surfboard designer, stylist, and film star from the iconic 1964 surfing travel film ‘The Endless Summer.’ (Photo by Don Balch/Special to La Jolla Village News)
Hynson’s rise to international fame came in 1966, when he co-starred with Robert August in Bruce Brown’s groundbreaking documentary “The Endless Summer.” The film, which followed the pair as they traveled the globe in search of the perfect wave, not only showcased Hynson’s extraordinary surfing ability but also captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, helping popularize surfing as a global phenomenon.
One of the film’s most iconic moments features Hynson riding a seemingly endless, perfectly-shaped wave at Cape St. Francis, South Africa — a scene that remains etched in surfing history.
Beyond his on-screen charisma, Hynson was a pioneer in surfboard design. He created the sought-after Red Fin longboard for Gordon & Smith in 1965, a board renowned for its speed and edge control. This innovation not only revolutionized board performance but also inspired a devoted following known as the “Red Fin Army.”
Hynson’s reputation as a “hot-dog performer, shaping genius, and cosmic adventurer” was well-earned, as he pushed the boundaries of both surfing and board building.
