Pleasure Point is located on the East Side of Santa Cruz and has become a popular spot for surfers over the years. Once overshadowed by the West Side, it's now known for producing impressive local talent, including the late Jay Moriarity. The area attracts a wide variety of surfers, from beginners to pros, making it a fun place to catch some waves.
The surf at Pleasure Point offers diverse conditions suitable for different skill levels. Swell typically comes from the South, South-Southwest, Southwest, West, and West-Northwest, breaking over sand and rock. It handles sizes from about 2 feet (0.6 meters) up to 10 feet (3 meters). Surfers can expect right-hand waves that cater to shortboarders, funboarders, longboarders, and fish riders alike. The best time to surf here is with an incoming medium tide, and the ideal wind direction is from the Northwest, North-Northwest, or North. Keep in mind that the spot gets very crowded, so a little patience might be needed, especially on good days.
Accessing Pleasure Point is straightforward; just park by the cliffs and head down the stairways. While the local vibe can feel edgy during peak times, especially when the surf is firing, it's worth noting that mid-week sessions are usually less crowded. The place runs from April through October, making it a prime spot during the warmer months. Just be ready for some kelp and the occasional long lulls in between sets!