The original Surf Ballroom opened on April 17, 1933. It was named that because the original owners wanted patrons to feel like they were at a surf beach club. Murals were painted on the club walls depicting ocean waves, boats on the water, and palm trees. The furniture is bamboo and rattan, giving a South Sea Islands ambience. Several fake palm trees rise on each side of the stage. Clouds are painted on the ceiling to give a feeling of dancing outdoors by the ocean. The original ballroom was across the street from a lake and the re-build was right by the lake, which may have something to do with the name as well, since the lake is water and the club name refers to water.