The Surf Window

Palos Verdes Cove

Los Angeles, USA

Reef breakAdvanced

Sheltered reef cove with intense but manageable barrels. Works on smaller swells than the outer reefs, protected from most wind directions.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size3-7ft

Wind

SW

to NE

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

October-March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right (occasional left)

Bottom

Rock reef

Shape

Hollow, barrel-prone

Length

40-120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced
  • •Why: Barrels and critical sections, respect the locals

Hazards

  • •Sharp reef
  • •Shallow sections
  • •Localism
  • •Strong backwash

Local Tips

  • •Watch the locals first
  • •Time your paddle-out carefully
  • •Fall straight, not toward shore

Location

Map showing the location of Palos Verdes Cove in Los Angeles, USA

33.7929, -118.4070