Point Reyes (north) Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Point Reyes (north) Surf Guide
Drakes Estero is the largest saltwater lagoon along the Marin coast. At its mouth exists a good, though also very fickle, wave that can break during the springtime and early summer months. The quality of the sandbar can be undermined by a healthy white shark populace.Drakes Beach is a shallow, hard-breaking closeout wave at the main point of entry to the south coast of Point Reyes. It faces south, so northwest winds blow hard offshore here. You can have a blast bodysurfing or bodyboarding into the open tubes, but don't plan on surfing here. It can occasionally be surfable during windswells, but your best bet would be to either hike south to the estero or check the north side of the peninsula. The scenery is exquisite, however, boasting an ancient and wind-whipped fetch of beach backed by chalk-white cliffs.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate-Advanced
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Zilch, except for maybe a little tinge at Drakes Estero if it's going off.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
If the estero is happening, there will be people surfing it. Numbers depend on the day, weather, etc. Otherwise, it's rare to see someone surf at Drakes Beach.
Spot Rating
Poor
Kinda fun.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Not too bad.
Water Quality
Clean
Mostly clean.
Hazards
None.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard
Access
From Highway 1, just south of Point Reyes Station, go west onto Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and drive 15 miles to Drakes Beach Road. From there, head south for two miles.
Bottom
Sand
Best Season
March-May
Do you have local knowledge about Point Reyes (north)?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]