General Surf Conditions

Santa Cruz is considered one of the best surfing locations in California.   From the gentle waves at Cowell Beach – perfect for beginners – to the more advanced skill requirements of Steamer Lane, Santa Cruz has the surf that can cater to just about any skill level.

Steamer Lane – Santa Cruz' Most Famous Surf Spot

Steamer Lane (also known as Steamer's Lane or Steamer's) is probably the most famous surf spot in Santa Cruz.  It's definitely for the more skilled and adventurous surfer.

Because this is such a prized surf location, use caution because the local surfers can be a little possessive and tend to apply a very strict code of conduct for those that use the waves.

Steamer Lane is home to the O'Neill Cold Water Classic surfing competition.  It is also where Jack O'Neill developed the modern wet suit  for surfing.   More >>

Pleasure Point

Although it's still a very popular spot for surfing, the area has gone through a major transformation over the last decade or so.  Like much of Santa Cruz, it's moved away from being a local surf Mecca lined with small beach cottages to something much more affluent with large multimillion dollar homes.  But because its rocky bottom point break creates some fantastic surf, it is and probably always will be one of the most popular surfing areas in Santa Cruz.  More >>

Additional Surf Links:

| Wet Sands - World Wide Waves - Provides information on surf, tide
  and beach conditions.

| Lighthouse Field – Provides information on the park next to Steamer Lane.

| Surfer's Museum – Provides information on the surf museum that is located
  inside the old lighthouse at Lighthouse Field. 

| Surfrider Foundation – A nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to
  the protection and enjoyment of the world's oceans, waves and beaches.

| Club Ed Surf and Windsurf School
  Located on Cowell beach next to the Santa Cruz Wharf  (800) 287-7873