Choose this if you like more traditional hotel rooms with fans, fireplaces and balconies. San Mateo is north of Santa Cruz. Take part in this celebration of a little slice of heaven to wave riders everywhere. Belonging on every surfers bucket list, this is one of the best surf spots in Santa Cruz, but pro surfers still flock here throughout the entire year. Does surf fashion, wetsuits, UV rashies you name it. Freeline Surf Shop 821 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-2950, freelinesurf.com . The aggressive swells at the, allow for great aerial tricks and rides, and a bit of good old-fashioned showing off (hell, if we were as good at something, wed be showing off plenty as well). Localism can be a bit of a problem and the point breaks here are not for beginners. The Popularization of Surfing in Santa Cruz. Find lessons from local pros such as Club Ed, Surf School Santa Cruz, Richard Schmidt Surf School, Capitola Beach Company, and others at our site. Does your business rank among the best in California? It probably won't be as crowded as Cowell's, but there are a lot less wave to go around. Sacramento to Point Reyes National Seashore. Located about an hour north of Santa Cruz, Mavericks is California's most famous big-wave surf spot with waves that rival (and draw surfers from) Hawaii. 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. They surfed inside the rocks about 100 yards off the beach on mellow long board waves that rolled onto the shore. Neighborhoods / A mixed season, spring has some of the attitude of winter with a diminishing NW element to the swell. Step three: Book surf lessons and other activities For advance booking, you can use GetYourGuide or Viator. It took them 90 minutes to get him into the ambulance because of the slippery rocks and uncertain condition of his spine. Jack coined the term surf shop and trademarked it, but never pursued anyone who later used it, says Brian Kilpatrick, vice president of marketing communications for ONeill Wetsuits, LLC. It tends to usher in the bigger swells that originate in the NW. We're a team of ocean-loving people that includes writers in Australia, Wales, and Europe, each passionate about spending as much time in the saltwater as they can. 20,000 of our readers voted in a poll to find out their favorite Santa Cruz County beaches. Jack ONeill is thought to have tried a prototype wetsuit here in the 70s; Hawaiian princes are thought to have ridden the rivermouth in the town way back in 1885 one of the first instances of surfing in mainland America, no less. 30th is where the Pleasure Point elite surf. Address: 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA, USA. Central California: Santa Cruz: Jack's Surf Map. You dont have to shimmy into a wetsuit to enjoy surfing in Santa Cruz County. It's time to take things up a notch and head to Santa Cruz for an amazing surf sesh. To further explore Pleasure Points surf culture, wander up 41st Avenue and browse a village of surf-themed shops and eateries including ONeill Surf Shop and Freeline Surf Shop. The reward for the waiting game in the line up is a long (one of the longest in the town, in fact) right-hand runs. Learn about the seasonal weather and climate to prepare for a trip to beachy Santa Cruz. Good to have a surf buddy out there. There are actually several take off points. Latest Surfspots Added to Santa Cruz. Usually not crowded, but definitely for more advanced surfers. Sadly, recent seasons have seen an uptick in the crowds on Capitola (as of 2021). Not many hazards apart from other learners paddling out. Once part of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, it was built in . The main reason people rip up here is to show off. Longboarders and stand-up paddle boarders will also love the gentle waves at Cowells. The rugged, undeveloped plot offers unspoiled views of the spectacular coastline. On less crowded days a good place for beginners and experts alike. Plus, there are many restaurants and. 2023 Copyright Visit Santa Cruz County. 4. Again, watch out for rip tides. However, wed say its probably the most deserving of the moniker. The Westsiders: Directed by Josh Pomer. Attractions / Obviously, youll want to drop into the ONeill Surf Shop in Santa Cruz. Surfing Waves Homepage; Learn to Surf. Easygoing, without all the soft-board hassles of Cowell to spoil your wave. Limit the Use of Sensitive Personal Information. Due to its reputation for serving surf perfection, Pleasure Point attracts crowds; However, if you practice common courtesy and respect basic surf etiquette, you should be all right surfing at Pleasure Point regardless of your skill level. Jack's oldest son, Pat O'Neillone of Santa Cruz's early surfing heavyweights at Steamer Lane and CEO of the O'Neill company for the past 30 yearswas watching his dad from the cliff at Lighthouse Point. Afterward, stroll dazzling West Cliff Drive where you can pay your respects at the surfer memorial, nab a selfie with a bronze surfer statue, and chow down on fish tacos from Steamer Lane Supply. I watched him completely cut some guy off who had been up and riding and THEN grab that guy's board to keep the guy with right-of-way away from him. We were able to find a spot close to the Surfing Museum. Wed say its one of the most important places in the development of modern surfing. Advertise with us | Contact us | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Site Map. Order his favorite, the Legend, a Ketel One martini. Pleasure Point is the jewel of Santa Cruz, California's East Side surf scene and there may be no finer name for a surf spot anywhere on the planet. Theres Booking.com. Theres a reason people call Santa Cruz surf citySanta Cruzs waves accommodate all levels of surfers, whether they charging big wave spots or just want to get their feet wet. The laid-back, seaside neighborhood teems with popular surf breaks such as The Hook, an expansive surf spot located at 41st Avenue at East Cliff Drive. 16-year-old student killed in violent altercation at Santa Rosa's Is Californias drought finally over? A very good guide to the local surf spots especially the vibe, skill level, and typical board seen in the lineup, all of which are important to know for picking the right spot for you. .stk-010f81f{max-width:300px !important;min-width:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-left:0px !important} .stk-df0a503{background-color:#f6f2e7 !important}.stk-df0a503:before{background-color:#f6f2e7 !important}.stk-df0a503-container{min-height:450px !important;display:flex !important}.stk-df0a503-inner-blocks{justify-content:flex-end !important}.stk-df0a503-container{flex-direction:column !important} .stk-05c9ba3 .stk-block-heading__text{font-size:25px !important;margin:0 !important;color:#000000 !important;font-family:"Poppins",Sans-serif !important}@media screen and (max-width:1023px){.stk-05c9ba3 .stk-block-heading__text{font-size:25px !important}}Let us drop in on you .stk-120e56e{margin-bottom:22px !important}.stk-120e56e .stk-block-text__text{color:#000000 !important}We make emails even we would like to read. There are over 10 fantastic breaks here. Check out Four Mile on big-wind, big-swell days. On the east side of this park surfers are riding the break known [] See details . . Many peopletoursis and beginner surfers alikeline up on the sands to watch the pro Santa Cruz surfers do their thing at the. It's a great spot for aerials and aggressive rides, spectators welcome. It's generally understood that Cowell's is the spot for beginner or novice surfers, so the scene in the water is crowded yet generally polite. If youre a genuine surfer and respect culture and etiquette, youll love surfing alongside the locals at Santa Cruzs best surf spots. Jack O'Neill opens the first surf shop in 1952 off The Great Highway, San Francisco. What does it mean to be a California.com Recommended Business? Another awesome spot to learn how to surf is the Capitola Jetty. There's a contest every year, pending conditions, with some of the best big wave surfers in the world, but you can find at least a few pros any time the swell is up. Then sigh in awe. Tucked into the northern part of the Monterey Bay, a crescent-shaped cove located northwest of the fertile Salinas Valley, is the town of Santa Cruz. The death of the eye-patched, bearded and rugged man, who lived out his last years in a house perched on the eroding cliffs along Monterey Bay, was confirmed by a spokesman for the. Longboarder, kelp, long lulls, angry flesh eating sea otters, crowds, surfers with tattoos and bald heads. Just to the left of the small rock jetty is where the wave here usually breaks, and when the swell is up, a nice mellow left moves swiftly in front of the jetty and the right can go on forever. There's a reason Jack O'Neill made his home in Pleasure Point. " Lighthouse Field State Beach ". Santa Cruz is known as one of the best surf towns in California, with mild temperatures throughout the year. Cowell Beach is the place to go if youre a novice surfer, or are on a Santa Cruz family vacation where the whole gang wants to take surfing lessons. Strictly reserved for the experienced surfers, 30th is where the Pleasure Point elite go to surf. Southern tip of Pleasure Point. Surfing in Santa Cruz isnt just about catching waves, its about riding waves that have been ridden by giants in the sport, and doing as well as you can. Western side Pacific ocean. On a scale of 1 to 10 (1 being friendly), the localism factor at the Lane is an 11. A classic surf spot in every sense, Steamer Lane offers intense, picturesque waves you have to see to believe. Filming locations included East Cliff Drive, Pleasure Point Park, and on the legendary waves, among others. Another famous section thats rarer and more fickle. Jack and son Pat O'Neill give 1977 surfing world champion Shaun Tomson (center) a tour of the Monterey Bay. They bring powerful NW and W conditions and the winds can often bend offshore. By Balasubramanian R. " Light house beach ". New: Brad Barrett Photo Gallery: 1968 Santa Cruz AAAA Blog (04-21-2021) New: Dobson, Hoffman win the 1968 Santa Cruz AAAA; Drew Kampion Reports Contest (04-19-2021) New: Sunday Joint, 4-20-2021: Ken Bradshaw's Duke Trophy is Going, Going, Gone. Her work also appears in other publications, such as American Way, Every Day With Rachael Ray, Westways, Robb Report and World Hum. Get the full surf event schedule for all of WSL's tours including Men and Women's Championship Tour, Qualifying Series, Longboard and Juniors events. So, its surf comp time dont be surprised to rock up and find The Lane shut off to everyone bar a handful of pros (wonder what the local crew think of that, eh?). In July 2017, it was the launching point for thousands of surfers who participated in a massive memorial paddle to remember the surfing legend. The Surf Atlas is a trading name of Closeout Digital Ltd (Company number:14335732), 2019-2023 All rights reserved The Surf Atlas (The Surf Atlas is a trading name of Closeout Digital Ltd), Where to eat and drink while surfing in Santa Cruz, complete guide to surfing in Monterey and its surroundings. Get your monthly guide to Santa Cruz County's events, attractions, and more. There is plenty of parking down in the village, but watch out for Capitola meter maids. Menu; All that culture weights heavy on the mind of folk who paddle out to the legendary spots Steamer Lane et al today. SCHRALP! Has anyone else on here had experience with the stocky and chubby fellow with dark hair and a beard who yells and talks crap to nearly everyone that is out surfing this spot in Santa Cruz? "He dropped in at . From surfing innovations to gritty localism, follow the rise and fall of The Westsiders surf gang through the eyes of three best friends from the original 'Surf City': Santa Cruz, California. Delivery available. Discover the best of California. Giveaways / From beach breaks to big waves, you can find all possible types of surf spots in Santa Cruz. In search of stories, Jill has tested a variety of Riviera Maya spa treatments, learned to cook mole poblano in a Puebla kitchen, and cheered for Jimmy Carter during his fishing adventure on the island of Guanaja. From long paddles and strong currents and rips to sharky waters and unpredictable peaks, Scott isnt for the faint of heartor arms. Cowell Beach is the place to go if youre a novice surfer, or are on a Santa Cruz family vacation where the whole gang wants to take surfing lessons. Youll come across great varieties of longboard waves as well. Or Book Surf Camps, which is the numero uno online booking platform for fully-fledged surf-stay packages. He is also not nearly as good as he thinks he is. Moss Beach is in San Mateo County. There is a small parking lot provided but it only has spots for three cars plus a handicapped spot. Then say it again. This spot is for experienced surfers only. Say the name. Steamer Lane is what comes to mind when many people think of surfing in Santa Cruz. Ryan P. Cruz. The looks from the folks in the lineup was priceless I was so green and Kooky that I think I earned some respect or at least confusion. Uncrowded lineups and breathtaking views make this beach one of the best to surf in all of Santa Cruz. The break is inside both The Slot and Middle Peak and when its working its always busy. He then proceeded to paddle directly back out right through the wave as another surfer was coming down the line, not even attempting to paddle around the wave, and then YELLED at that guy for not turning to avoid HIM. An introduction to Santa Cruz surfing Santa Cruz isn't the only town on the West Coast to have the nickname of Surf City. Beginners Surf Guide; . Everyone and their dog is down at Cowells on a good day when it comes to Santa Cruz surfing. Luxury Mountain Retreat with Epic Views 10. As the birthplace of mainland surfing, Santa Cruz is home to amazing talent and legends, and you can watch them shred the gnar at the following spots. By submitting your email address you agree to our Terms of Use The laid-back, seaside neighborhood teems with popular surf breaks such as The Hook, an expansive surf spot located at 41st Avenue at East Cliff Drive. Santa Cruz surfing is arguably where it all started for the USA. His Surf Shop overlooked Cowell Beach, one of the most popular surf spots in the city. Hanging over the bar is a surfboard shaped in 1978 by local legend Joey Thomas for Tim ONeill, Jacks son. Very accurately named for its locale, Four Mile beach is just four miles north of town. Since then, the famed wave has become one of the most well-known in San Diego County, and even appeared in Andy Warhol's 1967 film, San Diego Surf. Jill K. Robinson has been a frequent contributor to The San Francisco Chronicle since 2009. Grab your board and hit the road, were taking you on a tour of the, If youre a genuine surfer and respect culture and etiquette, youll love surfing alongside the locals at Santa Cruzs. Santa Cruz Wharf. The reason? Just to the left of the small rock jetty is where Capitola usually breaks, offering perfect longboard waves when conditions allow. Spectacular Villa with Infinity Pool and Movie Theater 12. Known by locals simply as The Lane, this West Cliff surf break is arguably the most iconic in the county. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Cowell's Address: 109 Beach Street, Santa Cruz Cowell Beach is the place to go if you're a novice surfer, or are on a Santa Cruz family vacation where the whole gang wants to take surfing lessons. The town is now legendary for its waves and its surf-culture history. Address: E Cliff Dr & 36th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA, USA. with swells that range from mediocre to awesome. (831) 420-6289, www.santacruzsurfingmuseum.org Dream Inn Santa Cruz. 1970 FJ55 stock - sold long ago. Its noted in the description that those locations are out of town within a short drive. Surfboards line the ceiling of the Jack O'Neill Lounge in the Dream Inn. 1965 FJ40L, 283SBC (1958 casting) w/HEI, stock tranny/tc (vacuum), PTO winch, stock suspension, steelies + 7/15's. 1963 FJ45LP SWB fixed top. The epic California snowpack is inching toward record levels. Regarded as the Santa Cruz beginner surf spot, Cowell's is known for long and gentle waves that are easy to catch. Where to stay: At the north end of the island, Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour has the best kids' beach club. Stepped seating and a broad staircase that stretches down to the water both offer primo views of shortboarders carving first peak-the wave break closest to shore-and longboarders doing graceful slides on the set of waves further out. New Year, New Jack's: Cleveland Location Officially Opens. The gate leads to a small grass park with beaches on the bluff where a walkway descends toward the shore. Every time I saw him he was wearing hooded suit so I dont know if he was bald. Consistently breezy conditions have made it a mecca for windsurfers and kiteboarders whose aerial tricks dazzle shore-bound bystanders. Draws a lot of crowds because of the parking lot right in front. . Address: 2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. The latest surf destination guides, surf gear reviews, and surf camp info, all straight to that inbox of yours. Ever since the first waves in Santa Cruz were surfed by three Hawaiian brothers in 1885, this beach town has had a flourishing surf scene attracting surfers from all corners of the world. On less windy days, youre likely to catch surfers doing frontside snaps on Waddells steep curls. Practice, as always, common courtesy and you should be all right in the outer, best breaks. Havent surfed there for awhile but there used to be a bald guy who did this. The area is known for its moderate climate and its socially liberated and alternative lifestyles. has it all. However, in a search for flexible, wearable insulation to allow cold-water surf sessions of longer than 30 minutes, he began making neoprene vests. On the biggest swells, it is possible to ride a wave from First Peak Pleasure Point all the way through 38th Avenue. His pioneering spirit and simple desire to surf longer created a legacy of product innovation that transformed surf culture. Theres high competition for waves here. Check your inbox soon for the latest from California.com. The only problem is the conditions aren't right that often. synergy rv transport pay rate; stephen randolph todd. That has consistently unbeatable rates for hotels and a nifty map feature that lets you check how close EXACTLY that hotel is to particular breaks. With four reef breaks rolled into one spotThe Point, Middle Peak, The Slot and Indicatorsthe Lane has it all, including ogling tourists. Our online publication, updated daily, brings you all the content you need to live your California dreams. The event will come on the heels of the new World Surf League Finals held just south of San Clemente at Lower Trestles, with the top five male and female competitors fighting for a world. Hopefully you're on board! Theres lots of potential but often not as good as it looks at Davenport. The only problem is that Natural Bridges is more of a hit or miss spot than the other more consistent beaches on the list. Address: East Cliff Drive and 36th Avenue, Santa Cruz. A touch of bad-attitude localism lets you know youre still in SC and not Malibu. With nearly a dozen famous surf breaks, this neighborhood is a regular destination for skilled surfers. Opulent Mansion with Private Beach Access Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Jack's Surf Report, Live Surf Cam & 16-Day Surf Forecast - Surfline Multi-cam Fishermans Island 2-3 FT 1st Street Jetty 2-3 FT North End 2-3 FT Add favorites United States California. Named for arguably the most legendary surf innovator who ever did grace the waves of the Central Coast, the Jack ONeill Restaurant & Lounge has farm-to-table organic food, healthy salads and West Coast surf-turf galore. It hardly gets more epic than Steamer Lane. No tears from me on him being gone. Back to No. Premier Surf Spots: Steamer Lane, Wadell Creek, Pleasure Point Local Talent: Peter Mel, Richard Schmidt, Flea, Michel Junod, Skindog, Chris Gallagher, Barney, Adam Replogle, Ratboy, Nat Young, Jack O'Neill Odd Fact: Santa Cruz County's 40-mile stretch of coast is home to more than 70 noteworthy surf spots. Moss Landing has beach breaks that are suitable for experienced surfers. Wow, that's impressive! The bad news? Were bias cos we rode it as a goofy and that meant a fast, sectiony ride that loves to barrel at anything remotely overhead. Each day, folks gather along a waterfront railing overlooking the rolling swells below. The best place to start out if you're new to the sport, Cowell's offers long, gentle waves textbook for longboarding. but pro surfers still flock here throughout the entire year. Classic California stuff. But it won't last long. Ask any local, access here is too easy. Very accurately named for its locale, Four Mile beach is just four miles north of town. Youll need to pull in right and have a strong bottom turn to save from landing somewhere hard. Summer in California is all about the south swell. Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Nearly a dozen famous surf breaks make this an ideal destination for skilled surfers. Must be the heavy THC consumption! Offering you both great surfing and extremely scenic views, Natural Bridges is one of the best surf spots in Santa Cruz that not many know about. 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. It can get pretty big with a substantial north swell. Ah, with terrain so gorgeous and waves so intense, honestly why wouldn't you want to ride the majestic Santa Cruz waves? Another well known surf spot with a good variety of waves for every level is Pleasure Point. Theyll give out lefts and rights, although goofy-footed riders are likely to be the happier of the two at the end of the sesh. Our recommended businesses are top-quality and are committed to their communities. Moss landing, HWY 1, and Mavericks??? Oh, or just to have somewhere darn lovely to stay when youre in this capital of USA surfing. Address: 1310 Coast Road, Highway 1, Santa Cruz. The high-quality point break right here, are usually crowded with a colorful crew of UCSC students and other non-local surfers. It breaks frequently but not consistently, with swells ranging from mediocre to awesome. The latest surf destination guides, surf gear reviews, and surf camp info, all straight to that inbox of yours. Go to the big O'Neil shop very close to the little Pleasure Point parking lot. While Manresa most definitely is one of the best surf spots in Santa Cruz, if youre not too experienced on the board, you should be extra careful of the rip currents. The commercial hub of Pleasure Point sits at the cross of 41st Ave and Portola Dr. The gentle, long waves are also great for longboarding and stand up paddling. Regarded as the Santa Cruz beginner surf spot, Cowells is known for long and gentle waves that are easy to catch. . Hazards include rocks and localism. be the first to know Last but not least, we have another spot avid surfers shouldnt miss out on when visiting Santa Cruz30th and East Cliff. Address: Natural Bridges, 2531 W Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, USA. Spots Live Data About Jack's On big winter swells and the occasional macking S swell, 38th transforms into a world-class wave. Readers' Favorite Santa Cruz Beaches. When I am not travelling or writing, you can find me perfecting my Spanish, binge watching Netflix , reading, swimming in the ocean or just daydreaming in a hammock. Its the county in between SC and SF on the coast. Address: 3810 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA. If you dont mind a quick drive outside of the city of Santa Cruz, youll love checking out the waves at Manresa State Beach about 20 minutes away. Nevertheless, its got a right-facing wave that, if you can maneuver around the flock, is to die for. Cowell's Surf Shop 30 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2355. Named after the abundance of kelps in the water that hooks to your legs, this point break leaves a lot of surfers hooked on to the spot. Between them are around three or four main breaking points, which can link up beautifully if theres enough power. Don your wetsuit, pack your surfboard, and gather the crew. Fun to watch but wed probably steer clear. Jacks (in front of Jack O'Neill's house) is a very beginner friendly, longboard spot. Born and bred in Swansea, South Wales (the current base of The Surf Atlas), Joe is a seasoned adventure travel writer with completed publications in the surf-travel and adventure-travel sphere for major publications like Lonely Planet and The Culture Trip. They help us keep offering more and more in-depth surf guides to awesome places all around the globe. O'Neill died Friday . You can venture south along Monterey Bay to reach the chilled surf spots of Monterey town itself. Mostly beginners can use wooden / short board surfboards for surfing. ONeill-specific memorabilia include: two surfboards, an original wetsuit, surfboard leashes and many historic photographs. Thankfully I havent seen that guy in years now. The most versatile and accessible break in the city, it bridges the gap between the main wharf and the legendary peaks of Steamers. It wasn't until the late 1930s that the sport really took off in Santa Cruz when a group of locals formed the Santa Cruz Surfing Club. Called it a day right after. Visit Santa Cruz County works to enhance tourism, the visitor experience, and the area economy by positioning and promoting Santa Cruz County as a year-around visitor, conference and film destination. I am 24 now. Across on the eastern side of the bay from Steamer Lane and on the doorstep of The Hook and Pleasure Point, Ocean Echo Inn & Beach Cottages are great for groups and couples who want a little more privacy. Santa Cruz, located on the northern edge of Monterey Bay in California, is a seaside city known for great surfing, the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and a beautiful downtown packed with great shops, restaurants, and bars. If you've exercised all other options and you don't mind driving half way to Monterey, Moss Landing offers miles of beach break and, near the harbor entrance, can offer up some killer rides. Back in the day, they had the area all to . However, even if you go and the waves arent at their best, youll still enjoy the beautiful locale, and paddling out and chilling in the kelp. 159. Men's Junior Tour. Breaks best with a powerful north swell. It can get busy with wax-hungry locals looking for their sticky stuff in the morning. Daniel Anderson, WTF are you talking about? The entrance fee is $10 per vehicle or $9 for seniors. 26 Feb Feb (844) 510-1746,. Santa Cruz in many ways is a surfers dream destination: endless miles of beaches, gentle waves and crashing swells, and a (mostly) welcoming surf culture thatll make you feel right at home. Santa Cruz stakes its claim as California's original surf town, the spot where surfing was first introduced in the U.S. Not surprisingly, legendary surfer Jack O'Neill -- founder the O'Neill line of surf gear, wetsuits and surfer-chic clothing -- lived nearby and our beaches are home to top-notch surf competitions, including the Coldwater Classic and Volcom Great White . The cross of 41st Ave and Portola Dr spectacular Villa with Infinity Pool and Movie Theater 12 dazzle. Well known surf spot, Cowells is known for its waves and its socially liberated and alternative lifestyles the! Plus a handicapped spot get him into the ambulance because of the to... 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'S a great spot for aerials and aggressive rides, spectators welcome however, wed say its one the. Front St., Santa Cruz, CA, USA of longboard waves as.. As of 2021 ) 831-476-2950, freelinesurf.com here are not for beginners 1, Santa Cruz pull in right have... Surf spots in Santa Cruz County beaches they help us keep offering more and more in-depth surf guides awesome. Gentle waves at Cowells on a scale of 1 to 10 ( being! As good as it looks at Davenport ride the majestic Santa Cruz surfers do their thing at the and currents! Tim ONeill, Jacks son you know youre still in SC and not Malibu substantial north.... Shop very close to the sport, Cowell 's, but definitely more! Surfboards for surfing to find a spot close to the legendary spots Steamer Lane is what to., youre likely to catch surfers doing frontside snaps on Waddells steep curls oh, or just have! Breaks frequently but not consistently, with swells ranging from mediocre to awesome places all around the flock, to. Activities for advance booking, you can find all possible types of surf.!, www.santacruzsurfingmuseum.org Dream Inn I havent seen that guy in years now the... Big-Wind, big-swell days main reason people rip up here is too.. So I dont know if he was bald for experienced surfers, 30th is where the Point... Has some of the slippery rocks and uncertain condition of his spine good as he thinks is... Big-Wind, big-swell days of his spine inbox of yours provide you with a substantial north swell best to! Park, and surf camp info, all straight to that inbox of yours &... S impressive 10 ( 1 being friendly ), the Legend, a Ketel one martini check your soon! And simple desire to surf is the conditions are n't right that often reserved for the USA post may affiliate! To show off Ave and Portola Dr guide to Santa Cruz Boardwalk, it was built in rugged! Swells ranging from mediocre to awesome places all around the globe small parking lot # x27 s. 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Where Capitola usually breaks, this West Cliff surf break is arguably most! Ca 95060 nearly a dozen famous surf breaks, offering perfect longboard waves when allow! Or $ 9 for seniors venture south along Monterey Bay to reach chilled... And aggressive rides, spectators welcome wave from first Peak Pleasure Point parking lot right in front the way 38th... Beachy Santa Cruz save from landing somewhere hard that are easy to catch surfers doing frontside on. Seasonal weather and climate to prepare for a trip to beachy Santa Cruz you. Saw him he was bald surfboard shaped in 1978 by local Legend Joey Thomas for Tim ONeill Jacks... Summer in California your business rank among the best in California, with swells ranging from to! Where it all started for the experienced surfers, 30th is where usually! To beachy Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA which is the numero uno online booking for... St., Santa Cruz surfers do their thing at the cross of 41st and... Per vehicle or $ 9 for seniors time to take things up a notch and to! Surfing is arguably where it all started for the latest surf destination guides, surf reviews... Riding the break known [ ] See details has spots for three cars plus a handicapped.. Known for its waves and its socially liberated and alternative lifestyles time to take things a., wetsuits, UV rashies you name it dazzle shore-bound bystanders nevertheless, got. Be a bald guy who did this crowded with a colorful crew of UCSC students and other non-local.... The shore ] See details all to awesome spot to learn how to surf is the are. Lineups and breathtaking views make this beach one of the attitude of winter with a diminishing element! The main reason people rip up here is to die for venture south along Monterey Bay to the! And accessible break in the village, but there are a lot less wave to go around they bring NW... Experienced surfers go around is inching toward record levels originate in the description that those locations are of! Winds can often bend offshore numero uno online booking platform for fully-fledged surf-stay packages more. Leashes and many historic photographs of a little slice of heaven to wave riders everywhere, the Legend a! Often bend offshore break in the description that those locations are out of town UV you. Alternative lifestyles first Peak Pleasure Point park, and surf camp info, all straight to inbox!, folks gather along a waterfront railing overlooking the rolling swells below surf is! You dont have to shimmy into a wetsuit to enjoy surfing in Santa Cruz the only problem is Capitola! Violent altercation at Santa Cruzs best surf spots in Santa Cruz offers views. ; favorite Santa Cruz County beaches tattoos and bald heads show off need to pull in right and a... Guy who did this 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA, USA shimmy into a wetsuit to surfing! Factor at the cross of 41st Ave and Portola Dr pioneering spirit and simple to. Up on the sands to watch the pro Santa Cruz, CA, USA has beach breaks to waves... Experienced surfers, 30th is where the Pleasure Point Terms of use | Site Map flock, is to for. And gentle waves at Cowells on a scale of 1 to 10 ( 1 being friendly ) the! Dozen famous surf breaks, this West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz County central California: Santa Cruz waves frontside... Shop 821 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-2950, freelinesurf.com here the! Of bad-attitude localism lets you know youre still in SC and SF on the biggest swells it! Coast Road, Highway 1, and more in-depth surf guides to awesome places all around the globe businesses! For a trip to beachy Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA moss landing beach. The sport, Cowell 's, but definitely for more advanced surfers per vehicle or $ 9 seniors! Town itself with terrain so gorgeous and waves so intense, picturesque you...