Benji Weatherley, a professional surfer known for his role in the Momentum Generation, is preparing to open Breakers in Encinitas at 481 Santa Fe Drive.
Weatherley grew up in Hawaii, where his home became known as The Volcom House due to his mother’s open-door policy, first reported by San Diego Magazine. This welcoming environment allowed him to bond with other locals and professional surfers, including Kelly Slater, Rob Machado, Shane Dorian, and Taylor Steele. During his youth, Weatherley and his friends frequently visited the original Breakers, a friendly café that closed in 2022. Now, Weatherley and his business partner, Chad Bennett, are getting ready to revive the concept in Encinitas, hoping to open in Spring 2025.
After managing the café until its closure, Weatherley was inspired to recreate the concept in Encinitas, which holds special meaning for him. Weatherley and Bennett are transforming the former home of Schooner’s Station into a unique café filled with memorabilia. He tells What Now San Diego that exciting surprises are in store for the new Breakers, including items from The Momentum Generation and various local tributes.
Inside the café, customers will find familiar touches like Captain Keno’s bar stools, booths, and the old O’Hurley’s cocktail sign. Mirroring the welcoming spirit of his childhood home and the original Breakers in Hawaii, this new establishment will also adopt an open-door policy, inviting everyone to come in. The owners envision Breakers as a community hub where local high school students can work to earn some extra money. Being the welcoming space that it will be, Weatherley says there will be a lot of events for the community, including live entertainment, hula dancing classes, ukulele nights, and stand-up comedy. There will also be a full bar with a full liquor license, so get ready for some exotic cocktails,
In addition to the nostalgic memorabilia, Weatherley and Bennett have ambitious plans for the food and beverage menu. Breakers will offer dishes commonly enjoyed in Hawaii, though not strictly traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Instead of typical Hawaiian food, the menu will feature dishes like ahi katsu, garlic shrimp, lomi salmon, and more. They will also serve affordable poke, teriyaki bowls, Hawaiian-style ice cream, and coffee. It won’t be long before Encinitas gains a new hangout spot for locals, allowing them to experience the true essence of Hawaiian culture.
