· By Maria Nilsson
Atmosea Muse: Abigail McHugh
Abigail wears the Meadow Bodysuit
Tell us a little about yourself—where are you from, and how did you first fall in love with surfing?
I’m Abigail, a photographer, surfer, and movement facilitator. I grew up just outside a small town near Ocean City, New Jersey, where the ocean was always part of my life. At 18, I moved to San Diego with a dream—to work in the creative industry, to surf, to skate, and to build a life around movement and art. I fell in love with surfing because it felt like the purest form of freedom—just you, your board, and the rhythm of the waves. It became my moving meditation, a way to connect with the ocean and with myself.
You wear a lot of creative hats as a model, surfer, yoga instructor, photographer, and founder of Radical Movement. How do you balance it all, and what fuels your creative fire?
Balance is always shifting, and I’ve learned to embrace that. I move with the seasons of creativity—some seasons are for shooting and storytelling, others are for deepening my practice in surfing or yoga, and some are for building community. What fuels me is connection—whether it’s the connection to movement, to nature, or to people. Seeing someone light up when they find their flow, whether on a wave or in their own creative process, reminds me why I do what I do.
What inspired you to start Radical Movement? Can you tell us about the community you’ve built and what it means to you?
Radical Movement started as an idea—a desire to bring together people who move through life with passion, whether through surfing, skating, yoga, or art. It’s grown into this incredible sisterhood of women who show up for themselves and each other, in the water, on the mat, and beyond. It’s about taking up space, owning your strength, and supporting one another in a way that feels real. Watching this community form and seeing the way it uplifts has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.
What’s the vision behind your Mentawai retreat? What can people expect when they join?
The Mentawai retreat is about deep immersion—both in nature and in yourself. It’s designed to be an experience where women can surf, move, and connect in one of the most beautiful and untouched places in the world. Expect dreamy waves, sunrise yoga, good food, and a space to grow—whether that’s pushing yourself in the surf, deepening your practice, or just learning to slow down. It’s a mix of adventure and restoration, with a community that supports you every step of the way.
There’s something special about sharing waves and adventures with other women. Why do you think it’s important to create these spaces for connection and community in the surf?
Surfing can feel intimidating, especially for women stepping into lineups that historically weren’t built for us. Creating spaces where women feel seen, supported, and encouraged is powerful. When we paddle out together, we’re rewriting that narrative. We’re showing up for each other, cheering each other on, and making space for joy, play, and progression without pressure. That kind of support changes the way you approach surfing—and life.
How do you want people to feel after a Radical Movement experience?
Empowered. Free. Connected. Like they’ve found a piece of themselves they didn’t know they were looking for. Whether it’s through a retreat, a surf session, or a movement workshop, my goal is always to create spaces where people feel safe to explore, take up space, and walk away with a deeper sense of self.
What’s your most unforgettable surf session? A moment that made you think, “Yep, this is why I do this.”
My most unforgettable surf session was on my first surf trip to Indo with my best friend. We were out at an iconic left (I won’t say which), and the waves were absolutely pumping—huge, definitely pushing my comfort zone. It was one of those sessions where fear and excitement mixed together, but I ended up catching some of the biggest waves of my life. I was scared, but also so hyped. That feeling of pushing past your limits, of being in the moment with the ocean—it’s why I keep coming back.
What’s one daily ritual or practice that keeps you feeling grounded?
Morning movement, whether it’s yoga, stretching, or just a few moments to breathe and check in with my body. It sets the tone for the day and reminds me to move with intention.
Abigail wears the Cheetah Fullsuit and sold out Crotchet Hat soon to be restocked!
What are your top three must-pack items for a surf trip?
1. A solid bikini or surf suit—something that stays put when you wipe out.
2. Zinc sunscreen—protect your skin, always.
3. A journal—for capturing thoughts, waves, and moments that shouldn’t be forgotten.
Every surf trip needs an epic playlist—have you got one for us?
Absolutely. It’s a mix of vibey, feel-good tracks—some indie surf rock, some soul, and a little bit of old-school classics. Think Khruangbin, Tom Misch, and a sprinkle of Fleetwood Mac.
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