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Manchester State Beach, also known as Alder Creek, is a five-mile stretch of sandy shoreline that’s pretty much exposed to the elements. Located at the end of Alder Creek Beach Road, this spot can be a bit windswept and is known for its sharky beachbreak. You’ll find surfers here primarily during the summer months or when there’s a small swell running, as it seems to be a go-to when Point Arena isn’t working. Although it’s not the most popular spot, it can be a decent place to catch some waves.
The surf here can be a mixed bag. It works best with south and north swells, handling sizes around 3ft (about 0.9 meters). The waves break over sand, and you can expect both lefts and rights. The preferred winds for this spot come from the southeast, which helps shape up the waves a bit better. It's recommended to surf during mid to high tides, as that’s when the waves have more potential to deliver a fun ride. However, be aware of some heavy rips, uneven bottom contours, and strong currents that can make things more challenging.
Another thing to mention is the area around Alder Creek. At the northern end of the beach, you may notice a bar forming at the creek mouth, adding some variation to your surfing options. Just be cautious of the shorepound, as it can get pretty gnarly and may catch you off guard. Overall, it’s a spot that locals might check out when conditions are right, especially if you're looking for something off the beaten path.