Santa Cruz to Host Heartfelt Paddle-Out & Beach Cleanup July 23 in Tribute to Marine Scientist Dr. Wallace “J” Nichols
Dr. Wallace ‘J’ Nichols. “I wish you water”
Santa Cruz — On Wednesday, July 23, WORLD BLUE MIND DAY, a powerful dual‑purpose event will encourage celebration, reflection, and action at Cowell Beach. Santa Cruz Works and Save Our Shores are uniting community, science, and stewardship in a moving tribute to Dr. Wallace “J” Nichols—the beloved marine scientist, bestselling author of Blue Mind, and champion for the mental and emotional benefits of our blue planet.
The day begins at 10 AM PST with a ceremonial paddle‑out honoring Dr. Nichols, who passed away in June 2024 at age 56. Paddlers are urged to arrive by 9:45 AM; the first 900 to register on the sand will receive a symbolic blue marble—a nod to the beloved tradition J introduced to represent Earth and our intimate bond with water. Friends and family will share thoughtful reflections aboard the Team O’Neill catamaran and the Chardonnay sailboat. All are invited to observe from the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf and West Cliff Drive. DETAILS
Embracing J’s legacy, World Blue Mind Day underscores the healing power of water—capturing the harmony and clarity he believed could transform our psyche. J’s groundbreaking 2014 book Blue Mind fused neuroscience with human experience, igniting a global movement toward mindfulness by water.
Immediately following the paddle‑out, participants will roll up their sleeves for the Beach Cleanup at Cowell Beach, organized by Save Our Shores—a nonprofit dedicated to local marine conservation since 1978. Volunteers will collect debris, helping ensure the beach remains as vibrant and pollution‑free as the waters J loved.
This two‑part gathering weaves community engagement, environmental action, and personal reflection into one unified experience. Dana Nichols, J’s longtime partner, captures its spirit perfectly: “Celebrants will be able to lovingly say what J always did — ‘I wish you water’”. “I wish you water” is more than a closing line—it’s an invitation to reconnect with our oceans and each other.
Beyond Santa Cruz, the paddle‑out is part of a global tribute: communities worldwide will participate in synchronous moments of remembrance, extending J’s vision to every shoreline.
Whether by water or on shore, all are welcome—board, paddle, barefoot, or boots—to join in “wishing you water.” Together, we’ll remember J’s legacy, celebrate our connection to the ocean, and leave Cowell Beach cleaner for the next generation.
Info at Cowell Beach, Santa Cruz • July 23, 2025, 9:45 AM–noon • All ages welcome • Bring water-friendly attire and reusable water bottle.
