Best Beaches in Santa Cruz to Watch Surfing
Surfers in Santa Cruz.
I grew up in the coastal town of Half Moon Bay in Northern California. Santa Cruz is just a scenic one hour drive south along Highway 1 from my hometown. Our summers were spent at the beach, playing in the ocean with boogie boards and surfing.
No doubt surfing is the unofficial state sport of California. Many people plan their vacations to the beach towns along the Pacific Coast Highway to take advantage of the perfect surfing conditions. Santa Cruz is a world famous surfing destination and the best part is that there’s surfing spots for all levels of surfers. The surf culture of Santa Cruz is difficult to put into words, you just need to experience it for yourself.
Surfing is also a great spectators sport, it can be really fun to watch the surfing action while enjoying a picnic on the beach. If surfing is too intimidating for you, worry not! Grab your freshly made smoothie, wear those sunglasses and chill by the beach watching the pros glide over the waves. A paradise for surfers and beach lovers, Santa Cruz in California has something for everyone. As your trip winds down into the evening, be ready to witness gorgeous sunsets during your Santa Cruz surfing getaway.
Ocean views of Santa Cruz Beach.
Why is Santa Cruz Such a Great Place for Surfing?
If sun, sand, sea and surfing are what you love, watching the surfers in Santa Cruz should be on your bucket list. Sandy beaches, azure waters and a beautiful coastline make Santa Cruz one of the most scenic surf spots worldwide.
It’s known as the birthplace of mainland surfing in the United States - complete with gentle waves on one side and huge crushing ones on the other. The diversity of wave conditions along the Santa Cruz beaches makes it the perfect surfing spot for surfers of all levels.
Legend has it that three Hawaiian princes brought this sport to Santa Cruz back in 1885. Throughout the years legendary surfers like Duke Kahanamoku, Kelly Slater and Darryl "Flea" Virostko have surfed in Santa Cruz, keeping the legendary status alive.
The Weather in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is situated on the northern edge of Monterey Bay between the Northern and Central California's coast. The weather is generally mild throughout the year with a warm-summer Mediterranean climate and wet winters.
The weather gets warmer in August, September and October making them the perfect months to visit. As Monterey Bay is near, night and morning hours are usually foggy with a low overcast. It generally rains during December, January and February. December is generally the coldest, but in general you’ll rarely ever experience extreme heat or extreme cold in Santa Cruz.
Surfer taking a break between waves in the sand.
Surfer walking along Pleasure Point with surfboard.
Best Beaches to Watch Surfing in Santa Cruz
Steamer Lane
Steamer Lane is a famous surfing spot for advanced-level expert surfers only. Steamer Lane is a spectacle to watch- you can smell competition in the air, the pros battling it out with the massive waves. Reserved only for the avid surfers, this is a delight for onlookers as the surfing masters do their thing. Some world-class surfing can be witnessed here for sure.
The colossal and fast waves hitting the shore at Steamer Lane are worth watching. If you are a beginner this one is off-limits as the water swells up in the most dangerous ways, you need the expertise to maneuver over them. Four reef breaks are rolled into just one spot - The Point, Middle Peak, The Slot and Indicators making it a surfer's delight.
Bustling with beach veterans throughout the day, Steamer Lane will surely not disappoint those looking to watch some California surfing. This is one point where you will find innumerable surfers surfing more than anywhere in the world. We recommend you hike it up a nearby cliff to get a splendid bird eye view of the surfers and the sea.
Pleasure Point
Located to the east of Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point offers the perfect wave consistency and the right break point for the surfers. This stretch of shoreline has rocky shores and not very much sandy beach for laying out. There is a paved walking trail that runs along the top of the cliff, giving you an excellent vantage point to watch surfers.
The Hook
The Hook situated at the insertion of East Cliff Drive and 41st Avenue is considered to be a popular spot to watch surfers. The Hook also has rocky cliffs and very limited sandy beach, making it not suitable for beach picnics - especially during high tide. Along the top of the cliffs there’s a walking trail and a staircase that allows for easy beach access. Additionally you’ll find wooden benches overlooking the ocean and when the waves are cooperating you’ll be able to sit and watch some great surfing action.
Cowell Beach
Cowell Beach situated inside a protected cove and it's another popular spot for surfing. It’s located just a quick 15 minute walk from the Municipal Wharf Pier. If you book your room at the trendy Dream Inn in Santa Cruz, the hotel overlooks Cowell Beach and you can watching the surfers during your stay.
If you’re wanting to give surfing a try for yourself, the Adventure Out LLC offers beginner surfing classes at Cowell Beach.
Your surfing class will last 3 hours and all the necessary equipment is provided for you.
Capitola Beach
Capitola is a 10 minute drive south from the Santa Cruz city center and it’s also a very popular vacation spot. There’s a famous row of rainbow colored mini beach cottages next to the beach known as the Venetian Seaside Cottages in Capitola Village. This is a scenic place for a beach picnic. There’s also a bunch of restaurants nearby with a variety of food options.
The Capitola Beach known for its small waves and mellow breaks makes it ideal for first-time surfers. You’re not as likely to see the pros surfing here.
Four Mile Beach
Aptly named, the Four Mile Beach is located four miles north of the town. The massive northwest 10 foot-and-above swells are here as well and they lure the pros to this spot. I found a fun YouTube video showing some surfers riding decent sized waves here.
At Four Mile there’s sandy beaches and cool rock formations visible from the beach, a great option for a relaxing beach day on the shore.
Beginners should not attempt surfing here, leave it to more experienced surfers. While pro surfers love that adrenaline rush, it’s also a treat to the eye for those relaxing by the beach. And of course a real dose of inspiration for novice surfers.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Located to the south of the rock arches of Natural Bridges, Natural Bridges State Beach is a spot that is often missed while driving. It is a picturesque beach with stunning natural arches and long panoramic ocean water views. This spot is only recommended for advanced surfers for its powerful and hollow right reef break.
Natural Bridges State Beach is a great fall trip destination. In October a large number of Monarch Butterflies migrate to the Natural Bridges State Park, truly a sight to behold.
Manresa State Beach
Manresa State Beach is located in La Selva Beach along the Pacific Coast, a 15 minute drive south from Santa Cruz. This gorgeous sandy beach can be found near Watsonville in Santa Cruz County and it’s perfect for a day relaxing on the beach. There’s a huge stretch of sandy shore and the consistent waves bring year-round surfers.
If you’re looking for a more low key beach vacation away from the crowds in Santa Cruz, the newly renovated and modern Hampton Inn Suites in Watsonville is just a short 10 minute drive from Manresa Beach.
Walton Lighthouse.
This is me taking surfing classes in Santa Cruz.
Surfing for Beginners in Santa Cruz
Learning to Surf with Professional Lessons in Santa Cruz
Learning how to surf can be a daunting task, but with the right instructor and welcoming waves it can be super fun. Consistent, gentle waves and the widest variety of surf breaks make Santa Cruz the ideal learning spot for beginners. I highly recommend signing up for surf lessons with the Adventure Out LLC Santa Cruz surfing school. Not only are their classes built for beginners (and also intermediate levels too), they provide all the surfing equipment you’ll need.
What gear do I need for surfing in Santa Cruz?
Surfing is a great sport to enjoy the outdoors and using the appropriate gear will make the experience safer and more enjoyable.
All surfers need a:
Surfboard - I suggest shopping on eBay for second hand gently used surfboards. If you really want to spring for a brand new surfboard, Backcountry has the best selection of surfboards.
Wetsuit - O’Neill has a great selection of wetsuits for men and women
Swimsuit - You’ll wear a swimsuit under your wetsuit.
Surfboard Leash - Trust me, you need a surfboard leash. Otherwise you could lose your surfboard to the ocean.
Surfboard Wax - Waxing the surfboard helps the surfer “stick” and not slip off the board.
Waterproof Sun Screen - The sun is more intense while you’re out on the water. Wear sunscreen that is waterproof.
What Should I bring for a day of surfing?
Beyond the surfing gear listed above, there’s a few more essentials that you’ll need a for day of surfing in Santa Cruz.
Extra large beach towels
Stay hydrated with a water bottle
Ready to eat snacks - surfing makes you hungry!
Extra change of clothes - preferably warm and comfy sweats because the water is cold.
Beach bag that is sand friendly - I prefer to use extra large canvas bags to hold all beach stuff.
The Dangers of Surfing in Santa Cruz
Is the water cold in Santa Cruz?
Often times people think California ocean water is warm, like Hawaii or any other tropical place. Unfortunately it’s definitely on the colder side, especially in Northern California. You will need to wear a wetsuit to prevent hypothermia. Keep in mind that even while wearing a wetsuit, you will still need to keep active and swimming to keep your body warm.
Do Sharks Attack Surfers in Santa Cruz?
One of the biggest mental obstacles of surfing is getting past the fear of what may be lurking in the water. Anytime you’re in the ocean, there’s the potential to run into a shark. That being said, the odds of a shark attack are very unlikely.
Growing up next to the beach, I have seen real life sharks a handful of times, luckily never when I was in the water. I have seen many seals, who tend to be very curious and like to pay surfers and kayakers a visit. Seals are generally harmless and won’t attack unless provoked. Jellyfish are also present in the water, and most of the time they are also nothing to be concerned about either.
A Word of Warning to New Surfers
Though there is an immense thrill in surfing, nature cannot be underestimated. The tides, waves, rip currents and winds can be extremely dangerous if misjudged. It is advisable to surf in spots recommended for beginners with the right gear and training. Surfing without proper knowledge and adequate experience can be hazardous and even fatal.
I strongly advise that anyone new to surfing take precautions and only go surfing with experienced instructors. As I mentioned above, you can book surfing lessons with real Santa Cruz pros with this link.
Secondly, there’s a local culture around surfing that is not always welcoming to newcomers. Experienced surfers are very protective over their favorite surfing spots and they have a tendency to voice their disdain for having to share the waves. Competition can be fierce for the “good” waves and bullying is prevalent. These are all the more reasons to hire professional instructors so they can be sure you’re surfing in hospitable surf territories.
Full disclaimer, I am not a pro surfer or even a very advanced surfer. I do enjoy being out on the water and I grew up with many surfer friends, but that doesn’t qualify me to give super specific advise on “safe” surfing spots.
More Things To Do & See in Santa Cruz
Not just surfing, Santa Cruz is a great getaway option for a family outing. Pristine beaches, amazing food, and the friendly vibe make Santa Cruz a sought-after fall trip option.
West Cliff Drive Waterfront Walking Trail
You can explore West Cliff Drive which is a 3-mile walking and biking path along the coastline with some mesmerizing views of the Pacific Ocean.
Walton Lighthouse on East Cliff Drive
The Walton Lighthouse is an iconic Santa Cruz landmark and it can be found on East Cliff drive. It is one of two lighthouses found in Santa Cruz (the second one is apart of the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum). Visitors can walk right up the lighthouse on a paved walking trail. This is a great place for vacation photos!
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
If you’re heading to Steamer Lane to watch live action surfing, you can also make a trip to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum which is right next to it. This small museum features photographs, videos, and surfboards that tell stories from 100 years back. Surfing fans can shop here for surfing memorabilia too.
Santa Cruz Beach
Santa Cruz Beach is the stretch of coast that’s located right across from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It has an enormously long stretch of perfect white sand and is a popular place for beach picnics. At this particular spot, when you’re sitting on the beach you’ve got the ocean in front of you and the boardwalk behind you, it’s like straight out of a California movie scene.
Surfing at Santa Cruz Beach with the Boardwalk in the background.
Panoramic views of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Wilder Ranch State Park
Once upon a time the Wilder Ranch State Park was a a dairy ranch, but it has since then been preserved as a state nature park. It has particularly scenic beaches with cliffs and rock formations. Inside you’ll find fields with wildflowers blooming, vintage restored Victorian buildings, hiking trails are more. The Wilder Ranch State Park has 7,000 acres for visitors to explore.
Davenport
Driving 20 minutes north on Highway 1 from Santa Cruz, you’ll find yourself in Davenport. This small coastal town has a beach with ruins from an old pier, which sometimes has a swing which hangs over the water. This is a popular photography and Instagram spot. Be careful when visiting because the climb down the cliff is steep. Also, best to go at low tide so that they swing is more visible.
Also in Davenport you can go berry picking at Swanton Berry Farm during the month of June. See photos from our day enjoying u-pick strawberries in Davenport.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Besides surfing, Santa Cruz is also famous for the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This seaside amusement park has everything we love for summer days - sunshine, rollercoaster rides, carnival foods and sweets and a stunning beach. See my complete guide to visiting the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk on the blog.
Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz
I’ve written a lot about spending the day at the beach in Santa Cruz, but you’re probably wondering where’s the best place to grab a bite to eat in Santa Cruz. Pacific Avenue is the main downtown strip of Santa Cruz and it’s the best place to find restaurants and do some local shopping. I have another guide filled with all my favorite cute and fun eateries in Santa Cruz.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is an excellent place to travel with young children. While you wouldn’t take your baby out surfing on the water, there’s still plenty of baby-friendly things to do and scenic places to explore with babies and toddlers. See my complete guide to exploring Santa Cruz with a baby.
Mavericks Surf Competition in Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is an hour north of Santa Cruz and it’s home to the big wave surf competition known as Mavericks. In the winter months off the coast of Pillar Point you can find 60 foot high waves that only the most experienced surfers can take on. You can watch some incredible videos of surfers riding giant Maverick waves on YouTube.
Stunning coastal views at Wilder Ranch State Park.
Our Favorite Hotels in Santa Cruz:
The Casablanca Inn is very conveniently located right across from Cowell Beach, Santa Cruz Wharf and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. So many scenic places you can easily walk to.
The Dream Inn really embodies those surfer lifestyle vibes with vibrant colors and beachy decor. They are also very centrally located and adjacent to the beach.
Hotel Paradox is ultra modern and hip with a big swimming pool and cabanas. Although it’s slightly more inland, it’s still only a 6 minute drive to the beach. There’s plenty of restaurants and coffee shops within a couple minutes of walking.
Shop for Beach Vacation Essentials:
The classic Santa Cruz sweatshirt is the uniform of skaters and surfers, especially on cold and foggy mornings. Tilly’s always has plenty of unisex Santa Cruz Skateboards hoodies in stock.
When you’re out surfing at the beach, the last thing you want to deal with is tying shoelaces on your sneakers. This is exactly why classic skate and surf brand Vans invented the popular slip on shoes.
You’ve got to wear a swimsuit or bikini under your wetsuit, might as well pick one that can double for your next tropical vacation. O’Neill is a tried and true surfer brand with an awesome selection of swimwear and wetsuits.
The Mexican serape blanket is a surfer’s staple. It doubles as both a quick wrap to stay warm and a beach blanket to throw down on the sand after a couple hours of surfing.
