The Surf Window

Pleasure Point

Santa Cruz, USA

Reef breakIntermediate

East Cliff's beloved right-hander is one of California's most consistent and joyful point-style reef breaks, a long, walling right that suits everyone from longboarders to progressive shortboarders.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size3-8ft

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

October–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right

Bottom

Rocky reef

Shape

Long, walling right with both mellow and punchy sections, Privates, 38th, and 36th Ave are the main peaks

Length

100–250m on a good swell

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: Long, predictable walls give you time to read the wave and work your surfing, perfect for progression.

Hazards

  • •Rocky reef takeoff at lower tides
  • •Competitive lineup (locals know every inch)
  • •Sea urchins on the reef at low tide

Local Tips

  • •38th Ave is the most popular peak, 36th Ave is slightly more mellow and better for longboards.
  • •A northwest groundswell with light winds makes this one of the most fun waves in California.

Location

Map showing the location of Pleasure Point in Santa Cruz, USA

36.9541, -121.9717