Devereux, also known as Coal Oil Point, is a surf spot located just around the corner from Sands Beach. It’s in a pretty accessible area, especially for those living in Isla Vista. Pronounced DEV-er-oh, this spot tends to get crowded, mainly with local students, so make sure you're ready to share the wave. The vibe is relaxed, but don’t expect it to be super easy to find some space during busy sessions.
The surf here can be long and usually mushy with sectiony right-point and reef waves. It works best around medium to high tide. The optimal swell direction is from the west, though it can handle southwest and northwest swells as well. The waves can handle sizes starting at about 2 feet (0.6 meters) and are great for beginners. There are multiple take-off zones, so it's best to find the one that isn’t too crowded. If you venture to the very outer point tip, you might get lucky with some hollow waves, but be cautious—it can get quite shallow, making it suitable only for shortboards. At low tide, you’ll want to watch for rock boils that can complicate things.
Access to the spot is straightforward; you can park at the very west end of Isla Vista and take a stroll across the bluff. The scenery is nice, and it’s a good place to relax even if the surf isn't perfect. While it doesn’t always deliver the ideal wave, it’s definitely worth checking out when you’re in the area.