Santa Cruz is one of the most diverse wave riding regions on the planet. It has all the factors serious surfers seek and is open to all swell directions which results in consistent waves throughout the year. The winter and fall produce serious Northwest swells traveling from the Aleutian Islands near Alaska, while the summer produces Southern Hemisphere swells from New Zealand as well as hurricane swells originating off of Mexico. Also, given the curvature of the Monterey Bay, favorable wind conditions can be found regardless of the direction of the wind. Few surfing regions can boast the number of quality surf breaks in such a small geographic area, ranging from body snapping big wave spots to gentle rollers perfect for learning.
The sport of surfing is deeply entrenched in the culture and community of Santa Cruz. The first documented surf session in the continental United States took place in the late 1800’s when a trio of Hawaiian Prince’s who were attending school in San Mateo County, made the trek to Santa Cruz to surf the waves at the mouth of the San Lorenzo River adjacent to today’s Boardwalk. This has led to the labeling of Santa Cruz as “Surf City”.
Santa Cruz is divided into five distinct surfing regions, starting with the rural beaches north of town, then moving to the west side, mid town, the east side, and finally the beach breaks of south county. The west side of town is home to the most famous and recognizable spot in Santa Cruz, Steamer Lane. It is located near the northern tip of Monterey Bay and has the historic lighthouse on the point.
“The Lane”, as it is known to locals, actually consists of four different spots: The Point; The Slot; Middle Peak; and Indicators. All can be world class depending on swell direction and size, but The Lane’s reputation was forged at Middle Peak in the 1960’s as a training ground for the massive waves of Oahu’s North Shore. Some of history’s greatest big wave riders cut their teeth at Middle Peak.
Moving towards the Santa Cruz wharf from The Lane, you will find Cowell’s Beach. Cowell’s is a gentle roller with a flat, sand bottom. This is an ideal wave for beginners to learn the sport. The wave allows plenty of time for surfers to get to their feet and peels nicely for long distances. Access to the water is also convenient with a sizable beach front and available neighborhood parking.
Moving past the Boardwalk into mid town, you have The Rivermouth, where the aforementioned Hawaiians introduced the sport to the Western Hemisphere. The Rivermouth is a fickle break, requiring the sandbar to be sculpted in such a way as to produce a rideable wave. This usually occurs after winter storms produce high runoff from the mountains to the mouth of the San Lorenzo River.
As one moves east from the Rivermouth, the next major surf spot is the jewel of the Eastside, Pleasure Point. Pleasure Point consists of Sewer Peak, First Peak, Second Peak, 38th Avenue, The Hook, Sharks Cove, and Privates. Sewer Peak and First Peak are for advanced surfers who have experience in steeper, harder breaking waves. These waves are at the tip of Pleasure Point and are usually bigger than the spots further down the point. 38th Avenue and Privates are breaks more suited to the beginner surfer, as they are generally smaller and easier to ride.
Craig Springbett lives in Santa Cruz and surfs throughout the Monterey Bay. He has been a successful Realtor in the Silicon Valley and Santa Cruz areas and is the Sales Manager for Sereno Group Santa Cruz. He can be contacted at springbett@serenogroup.com.
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