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Andrew Molera State Park is a scenic surf spot located along California's beautiful Big Sur coastline. It's known for its natural beauty, featuring a driftwood-strewn beach and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and ocean. The park is a bit remote, requiring a nearly mile-long walk from the dirt parking lot to get to the beach. There’s cheap camping nearby, but keep in mind it can get somewhat crowded, especially on good surf days.
The surf here is best when the swell comes from the West or Southwest, and it handles sizes from about 4 feet (1.2 meters) to 7 feet (2.1 meters). The main break is at the Big Sur Rivermouth, which typically offers fast, thin right-hand waves that can be a lot of fun. The lefts are shorter and a bit softer. Conditions are generally better with low to mid tides, and the preferred wind direction is from the Northeast. While this spot can be reliable due to favorable winds, it can also get closed out at times, and currents might push you down the beach if you're not careful. It’s suitable for intermediate surfers who are looking to ride shortboards, funboards, longboards, or even fish.
Access to the park is straightforward; just head north on Highway 1 out of San Simeon and watch for the signs. In terms of local vibe, you might encounter some grouchy locals, so it’s good to be respectful. Additionally, be aware that there can be large sealife around, including sharks. The best time to surf here is during the summer and autumn months, from June to October.