Surfrider Foundation Summer and Semester-Based Legal Internship Program
The Surfrider Foundation offers both summer and semester-based legal internships with Surfrider’s Legal Department to currently enrolled law school students. Interns work on a variety of projects related to Surfrider’s mission of the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves, and beaches for all people, including Surfrider’s five primary initiatives – clean water, ocean protection, coast & climate, preventing plastic pollution, and equitable beach access – as well as issues relating to operation as a 501(c)(3) organization.
Summer internships are offered to students who will have completed their 2L year. Full time summer legal interns will receive a stipend, comparable to that offered by other public interest organizations.
Semester based internships are offered to students in their 3L year, who will be receiving academic credit or pro-bono hours for a certificate from their law school (or comparable credit). Semester based interns are asked to commit at least 10 hours per week. Both summer and semester-based internships are located remotely, but may be on a hybrid-remote basis at Surfrider’s Headquarters office in San Clemente, California. Please check our Careers page for any current opportunities. Positions are posted as they become available, and will remain up until filled. If we are unable to offer you a position, we encourage you to check out other ways to get involved with your local Surfrider Chapter.
Current Opportunities
Currently Accepting Applications for Spring 2026. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and writing sample to legal@surfrider.org by October 31, 2025.
Currently Accepting Applications for Summer 2026. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and writing sample to legal@surfrider.org by September 15, 2025.
For more information, visit: https://www.surfrider.org/careers/summer-2026-legal-internship