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Ano Nuevo State Reserve

Hourly Forecast
Timezone: America/Los_Angeles
GFS Atmos (run: 20250711 06)
GFS Wave (run: 20250711 06)
⏱️s.
⚡️kJ
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Friday 5
Saturday 6
Sunday 7
Monday 1
Tuesday 2
Wednesday 3
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Primary Swell

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Primary Swell Energy

kJ
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Wind

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Tide

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Secondary Swell

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Tertiary Swell

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Ideal surf conditions at Ano Nuevo State Reserve

Swell window
S, SSW, SW, WSW, W, WNW, NW
Best swell direction
SW
Swell size
2ft - 8ft
Swell breaks over
Sand
Wave types
Beach
Wave directions
Left, Right
Wind window
NE
Offshore wind
NE
Works at
Low, Mid
(Better on rising)
Skill Level
Intermediate
Seasons
Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Board types
Shortboard

Ano Nuevo State Reserve surf guide

Ano Nuevo State Reserve is a popular surf spot located in the heart of the Red Triangle. It’s a state park known for its stunning natural surroundings and unique marine life, including sea lions and elephant seals that breed on Ano Nuevo Island, which is about half a mile offshore. This area attracts plenty of surfers, especially during the summer months when it can be one of the only rideable spots on the coast. It can get busy, so don’t be surprised if you have to share the waves with others.

The surf here varies from waist high to overhead (about 1 to 2.5 meters) and generally breaks over sand and rock. The best swells come from the south and southwest and can handle sizes from around 3 to 8 feet (0.9 to 2.4 meters). You can expect mostly right-handers, though there’s also a good left breaking off the north side of Ano Nuevo Island. The beach break can be hollow and intense, so it's recommended for intermediate surfers using shortboards. The wind from the northwest is offshore, but it can contribute to the area’s infamous cold waters, known to be some of the chillest in Northern California.

Access to the break is straightforward; you’ll need to pay a fee and park in the designated lot, then walk in. Keep in mind that the crowds can get high, and the surfing area is somewhat tight. This spot has rip currents, and it's essential to be cautious given the risks of shark bites and frostbite. The ideal conditions really shine in spring, summer, and autumn, but you can surf here year-round if you're up for it.

Surf reports and surf forecasts nearby Ano Nuevo State Reserve