The most popular spot in Sonoma County in Northern California is Salmon Creek. similar to Ocean Beach, but not as good, this beach break lies right on Highway One and offers up quality sandbar peaks for miles. These waves are difficult and powerful once it gets over chest high and deserves respect. At times barrels can be on offer, but usually turns and carves are what the doctor ordered.
What are the best surf conditions for Salmon Creek?
This spot picks up any scrap of swell and works from waist high to the point when it becomes impossible to get out. A longboard will work on the smaller days, and as the size goes up a shortboard, step up, and even gun will be the ideal equipment. Salmon Creek will have something on tap for all surfers depending on the size of the swell. Beginners should be aware of powerful currents. This is a swell magnet and is very consistent (8/10). On good days there will be plenty of guys in the water, but if you want an empty peak there will be more than a few available after a short walk down the beach (4/10). The best winds are East and Southeast. The best tides depend on the sandbars. The best swells come from the Northwest, Southwest, and West.
We recommend wearing a 5/4 wetsuit all year round. Water temperatures rise to 13 degrees in September before dropping down to 11 degrees in the winter. See the temperature chart below for more data on this.
