Surfing in Santa Cruz

Welcome to Surf City*

As the story goes, in 1885 three Hawaiian princes were visiting Santa Cruz and they requested that a local woodsman fashion them three boards out of California redwood. If it weren’t for these princes on holiday, who knows when surfing would have hit the American mainland? Most everyone can agree that this story, along with Santa Cruz’s legendary breaks, cements its standing as Surf City* in the sport’s history (despite what a judge ruled regarding Huntington Beach). It’s not just the tale of the three princes, though, give credence to the city’s status: in the 1950s, Jack O’Neill relocated from Colorado to Santa Cruz and opened the first “surf shop’ in addition to creating the first wetsuit that has made surfing possible in colder water. Thanks for that Jack.

About the actual surf, though...there’s waves, breaks, and special surf spots for everyone — including some really gnarly spots for the dedicated. Steamer Lane is the most well-known spot in the area — with four reef breaks — all of which cater to a more intermediate and advanced crowd. For beginners, Cowell’s is the best place to get your toes and board wet. Even though there’s crowds, the long waves never get old and it’s always a good time. Further afield is Pleasure Point, with breaks for all levels. For the expert or pro surfer in your group, if he or she feels like really, really pushing it, then head to Mavericks just north of Half Moon Bay...if the break scares you, don’t worry. It inspires fear and respect from just about everyone. If you’re visiting in winter there’s an invite only coldwater competition worth checking out as a spectator.

Who should go surfing in Santa Cruz?

With big breaks and forgiving breaks, there are plenty of waves for all level of rider. Even if you want to sit one out, sometimes watching the pros do their work is almost as much fun! Every serious and aspiring surfer should surf in Santa Cruz at least once.