Recognized as one of the premier surfing destinations in the region, Santa Cruz attracts a significant number of tourists and passionate surfers every year. With its numerous beaches and strong waves, the city has been home to a multitude of high-profile names, including some of the best surfers in the world.
From nervous beginners to the pros of the surf world, there’s a place in Santa Cruz that’s just right for any experience level. Here are a few of the notable surf spots along the coast—and the best places to grab gear while you’re there.
Beginner
We all have to start somewhere! If this is your first time on a board—or even your second or third—it’s probably best to stick to easier spots around Santa Cruz.
One of the most popular areas, Cowell Beach (typically just referred to as “Cowell’s”) is located on the west side of the wharf. While this is also an excellent beach for propping up an umbrella and enjoying some sun, these are some of the tamest waves around. In fact, surf schools, such as Surf School Santa Cruz, regularly take beginner surfers to Cowell’s to start. As an important note, many would recommend wearing a wetsuit here.
When it comes to gear, Cowell’s Beach Surf Shop is your best bet. They carry wetsuits, boards, and other assorted essentials, as well as souvenirs and apparel. Should you prefer to rent instead, they have you covered, too.
Intermediate
For those ready to take things to the next level, this spot is a step up from Cowell’s.
Pleasure Point, found between Twin Lakes and Capitola, is considered to be the succeeding choice after getting a hang of the board. While this is also sometimes considered to be beginner-friendly, some of the spots, specifically The Hook, can be a bit tricky. As well, Pleasure Point is typically one of the more crowded areas to surf, and it attracts some of the more experienced surfers who like to show off a bit—so keep that in mind, too!
For gear, you have a few options, but Rip Curl on 41st and Blown Out Surf Shack on Portola Drive have been popular choices for locals and visitors alike for years.
Advanced
Arguably one of the most famous spots, The Lane (as it is colloquially known—officially “Steamer’s Lane”) is a well-known Santa Cruz attraction. And as a result, this spot is really only recommended for those with significant surfing experience.
Non-surfers can watch the figures below from the safety of West Cliff Drive, which sometimes include some big names in surfing. Similarly, Natural Bridges State Park, found further west, is also a great place to catch some waves—when the conditions are favorable.
Other surf spots around the area include the popular choice of Manresa Beach (often the less busy option), Four Mile Beach (found four miles out of downtown Santa Cruz), and, of course, Mavericks (for the very advanced). There are a ton of options for gear, including the Rip Curl Outlet and Westside Surf & Skate.
But, of course, the real pros likely have a few secret spots that they likely want to keep hush hush. No matter your skill level, the most important things to remember are to stay safe and have fun—and to make sure no otters are around to steal anything!
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