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Hundreds of former cancer patients, caregivers, friends and surfers will gather for "Survivor Beach." Last year, surfboards that were lined up end-to-end stretched the length of five football fields.

"Survivor Beach offers a unique and meaningful way for anyone who has been touched by cancer to gather and receive support and inspiration," said Jessica Yingling, one of the event organizers.

Survivor Beach is put on in conjunction with the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Genentech, an area biotech firm.

Not far away, Scripps Health has organized a celebration and concert at the Valerie Timken Amphitheater at Scripps Green Hospital. Survivors, physicians and caregivers will take part in the free event, which will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The concert will be performed by pianist Sue Palmer, a 10-year survivor of breast cancer.

According to Scripps Health, the overall survival rate for cancer is now about 70 percent today, up from 50 percent 30 years ago. The healthcare organization will hold similar events at its other hospitals through the month.