Kelly's Cove is a spot located at the north end of Ocean Beach, near the historic Cliff House. This place is known for its relatively sheltered environment thanks to some large rock formations, which help block the afternoon Northwest winds. Being a SW-facing nook, Kelly's Cove is a popular destination for surfers looking for more manageable waves compared to the busy main beach area.
The surf at Kelly's Cove can handle swell sizes starting from 2ft (about 0.6 meters) up to bigger swells. It picks up South swells primarily, but also gets some action from Northwest swells. The waves break over sand and can produce decent left and right peaks, making it suitable for intermediate surfers. This spot tends to work well at all tide levels—low, mid, and high—and is best when the wind comes from the East. You can expect typical Beach wave types, and on a good day, the cove can offer some fun and shape to ride.
Because of its accessibility, Kelly's Cove sees a higher concentration of surfers compared to spots further south. There’s ample parking close to the beach, which is especially handy during weekends and busy summer days. You’ll find restrooms and showers available, making your surf session a bit more comfortable.