Santa Cruz, CA is one of the best places in the world for surfing, offering a variety of wave types that cater to all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro, or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, there are plenty of options for everyone. In this blog post, we will explore the best places to surf in Santa Cruz, CA, so you can spend more time in the water and less time searching for the perfect spot.
The Best Places to surf in Santa Cruz, CA are:
Steamer Lane
Cowell Beach
Four Mile Beach
Pleasure Point
Waddell Creek
Whether you're looking for a secluded beach break or a bustling surf scene, Santa Cruz has something for everyone. In this guide, we will take you through the five best places to surf in Santa Cruz, CA. So grab your board, wax up, and let's hit the waves!
A clean top turn at Steamer Lane on an average day. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Pros:
World-class waves: Santa Cruz is known for its world-class waves, which attract surfers from all over the world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, you'll find waves that cater to your skill level.
Variety of waves: Santa Cruz offers a variety of wave types, including beach breaks, point breaks, and reef breaks. This means that there's always a new spot to explore and a new wave to ride.
Vibrant surf culture: Santa Cruz has a vibrant surf culture, with a community of surfers who are passionate about their sport. This means that you'll find plenty of like-minded individuals who share your love for surfing.
Beautiful scenery: Santa Cruz is located on the California coast, which means that you'll be surfing in some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. With rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and stunning sunsets, you'll feel like you're surfing in paradise.
Mild weather: Santa Cruz has a mild climate year-round, which means that you can surf in comfortable temperatures no matter what time of year it is. But, don’t forget your wetsuit!
Cons:
Crowds: Santa Cruz is a popular surf destination, which means that you'll often be surfing in crowded conditions. This can make it difficult to catch waves and can lead to frustration and stress.
Cold water: The water temperature in Santa Cruz is relatively cold, even in the summer months. This means that you'll need to wear a wetsuit, which can be uncomfortable for some surfers.
Shark sightings: Santa Cruz is known for its shark population, and there have been several shark sightings in the area. While attacks are rare, it can still be unsettling to know that there are sharks in the water.
Limited parking: Many of the surf spots in Santa Cruz have limited parking, which means that you'll need to arrive early to secure a spot. This can be inconvenient, especially if you're driving a long distance to surf.
Localism: Some surf spots in Santa Cruz are known for their localism, which means that the locals can be territorial and unwelcoming to outsiders. This can be intimidating for some surfers, especially those who are new to the area.
Steamer Lane
If you're looking for world-class waves and a vibrant surf culture, Steamer Lane is the place to be. This iconic surf spot is located on the western edge of Santa Cruz, and it's known for its steep, powerful waves that break over a rocky reef. While it's best suited for experienced surfers, it's also a great place to watch the pros in action.
Cowell Beach
Cowell Beach is the perfect spot for beginners and intermediate surfers. This wide, sandy beach is located in the heart of Santa Cruz, and it offers gentle waves that are perfect for learning how to surf. Plus, the beach is just a short walk from downtown Santa Cruz, making it a great spot for a surf and shopping day.
Getting ready to tackle a dawn patrol session on a big day at Four Mile Beach. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Four Mile Beach
Four Mile Beach is a hidden gem located just north of Santa Cruz. This beach break offers a variety of waves, from mellow longboard waves to steep, fast-breaking shortboard waves. It's a great spot for intermediate surfers who are looking to improve their skills, and it's also a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Pleasure Point
Pleasure Point is a surf spot that offers something for everyone. This three-mile stretch of coastline features a variety of waves, from mellow longboard waves to steep, fast-breaking shortboard waves. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and it's a great place to spend a day in the water.
Waddell Creek
Waddell Creek is a secluded beach break located about 40 minutes north of Santa Cruz. It's a great spot for experienced surfers who are looking for a challenging wave, as the conditions can be quite unpredictable. But if you're up for the challenge, the rewards are well worth it – the waves at Waddell Creek are some of the best in the area.
Tips for Overcoming Localism:
Overcoming localism in Santa Cruz can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Here are a few tips that might help:
Show respect: The most important thing you can do when surfing in Santa Cruz is to show respect to the locals. This means being courteous in the water, waiting your turn for waves, and avoiding any confrontations or aggressive behavior.
Observe the surf etiquette: Surf etiquette is important in Santa Cruz, and following it can help you earn the respect of the locals. Some basic surf etiquette rules include not dropping in on others, not hogging the waves, and not paddling around other surfers to get to the lineup.
Surf at less popular spots: If you're new to the area or not confident in your surfing abilities, it's best to surf at less popular spots in Santa Cruz. These spots are less crowded, and the locals are often more welcoming to outsiders.
Be friendly and approachable: One way to break the ice with the locals in Santa Cruz is to be friendly and approachable. Strike up a conversation on the beach, ask for advice on where to surf, or offer to share waves. This can help you build relationships with the locals and earn their respect.
Join a local surf club or organization: Joining a local surf club or organization is a great way to get involved in the Santa Cruz surf community. This can help you meet other surfers, learn about the local surf spots, and get insider tips on how to surf in the area.
Remember, overcoming localism takes time and effort, but it's worth it in the end. With a little patience, respect, and a willingness to learn, you can become a part of the Santa Cruz surf community and enjoy all that this amazing surf destination has to offer.
Sam Coffey showing off for the camera at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz, CA. Photo by Dalton Johnson
No matter what your skill level or surf style is, Santa Cruz, CA has something to offer. From world-class waves to mellow beach breaks, this coastal town is a surfer's paradise. So grab your board, hit the waves, and enjoy all that Santa Cruz has to offer. Happy surfing!
