Surfing in California (Central)
Overview of surfing in California (Central)
Central California is one of the most scenic, picturesque stretches of coastline in the world. Highway 1 hugs the ocean for almost the entire coast, leading to beautiful views and comfortable access to surf spots. Starting just south of San Francisco with San Mateo County, central California extends south past Santa Cruz and Monterey ending at the southern edge of San Luis Obispo County. There is a huge variety of surf breaks here: soft points, heavy reefs, barreling beach breaks, and the best big wave spot in North America are all found here. There really is something for everyone. The locals might be a bit rude (especially in urban areas), but don’t drop in or bring ten of your closest friends into the lineup and you should be alright. The abundance of state and national parks in the area has served the coast well, but also increased marine wildlife populations big and small. Watch out for great white sharks, especially in the fall.
This coastline is very accessible, almost all of it directly from highway one. There might be a short walk involved across some protected cliffs, but nothing too crazy for most spots. Santa Cruz is the most well known for its surf here, and rightly so. In town you have a myriad of quality and consistent point breaks. Just outside of town you have beachbreaks, points, or heaving reefs. It is a slice of paradise for surfers (except for the crowds). To escape the crowds just drive for a bit. Big Sur in Monterey County should offer relief, or any of the spots between San Francisco and Santa Cruz not in Half Moon Bay.
As with all of California, the best way to get around is by car. Rent one from the airport you fly into and zoom off to the coast. There are plenty of cheaper motels and camping options everywhere as well as high end to very high end hotels and resorts in the city centers (Specifically Monterey and Santa Cruz areas).
The 21 best Surf spots in California (Central)
Surf seasons and when to go
When to Go
Central California has a lovely climate year round. Usually not too hot, especially on the coast, and winters are quite mild. It follows the same weather patter as Northern California, wetter and colder in winter, dry and hot in the summer. Pack layers, there will be cold, foggy days even in the summer. Winter brings heavier water, summer is much more mellow in the ocean.
Winter
This is the peak season to surf in Central California. Big NW and N swells from the Pacific thunder into the coast, peeking in to the coves and crannies, lighting up the point breaks and reefs up and down the counties. Novices should not surf exposed spots this time of year. Winds are primarily offshore in the mornings during this time and turn onshore in the afternoon. Glassy days are also common. A 4/3 with a hood is the minimum at this time. Booties or a 5/4 or both is not a bad idea.
Summer
Summertime brings smaller waves, warmer days, and more crowds. Southwest and South swells travel a great distance before filling into the coast here. A lot of set ups like south swells, but they are smaller and more inconsistent than the winter ones. Windswell mixed in lights up the beachbreaks with crossed up lines. Winds are the biggest problem in the summer. Onshores start earlier than in the winter, and blow out surf quickly. Luckily on this coast there are many kelp gardens that help to combat this. A 4/3 with or without a hood should serve you well during this season.
California (Central) surf travel guide
Accommodation
There really aren’t too many options on this stretch of the coast. There is a decent amount of camping, especially a few miles inland. There is one small town of Davenport that has an inn, but other than that there are not too much housing available. AirBNB might prove fruitful, but reserve in advance.
Other Activities
This are isn’t exactly void of opportunity for recreation, but there is little other than nature to entertain. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding on trails are all easy to find and do. There are many local ranches that offer opportunities to pick local produce (you get to keep it) aas well as fishing companies that will take you to their secret spots.
