I've been going to surf contests at Florida's Sebastian Inlet for over 30 years and recent ones can't even come close to the action of those held in the 80s and early 90s. Back then the action was just as hot on the beach as it was out in the water.

While the competition still remains high the crowds have greatly diminished and the party scene along with it. It was truly epic and those there will agree.

This gallery of pictures along with the contest video of the 1988 US Pro Surfing Contest gives you a peak of what it was like back in the glory days when life was unplugged and you did everything face to face.

The most important feature of the video is a great look at sixteen year old Kelly Slater who at the time was just beginning to make his move in competitive surfing and as we all know would go on to win nine pro surfing world championships and is the greatest surfer of all time. Classic video from a time when life seemed free and easy.