Pleasure Point surf guide

Pleasure Point is a well-known surf spot located along the Central California coast. It's famous for its reliable waves, expansive setup, and the lush kelp forests that line the shoreline. This spot attracts surfers of all levels, but be prepared for crowds, especially on good days. There’s parking available at the top of the point, which offers a nice view of the whole mile-long surfing area.

The surf here is quite varied, with several take-off spots to choose from. Starting at Sewer Peak, you can find exciting top-to-bottom barrels over a rock shelf. The lefts can be decent, but the rights here are usually cleaner and longer, making them a favorite among shortboarders. First Peak is another popular option, known for its quality righthander that works well with a variety of swell angles and tides, though it's typically crowded. Just a bit further, Second Peak becomes more of a lined-up wall and is a bit less consistent, but it can still have its good days, especially for the younger surfers. Insides, located directly in front of Jack O’Neill’s house, is more suited for beginners and longboarders, with a mushy reef peak that works best around lower mid tides to help reduce backwash, although it can get choked with kelp during big lows.

This spot handles swell sizes starting from around 2ft (0.6m) and is optimal for Southwest swells, but North and Northwest swells can also work. The best wind direction is typically from the North, and low to mid tides are preferable for the right surfing conditions. Overall, it’s a place where you can enjoy a variety of wave types, mainly point breaks, and where surfers from different skill levels can find their spot in the lineup.