Sunset State Beach is a pretty nice spot for surfers looking to catch some waves without the crowds. It's not as busy as places like Manresa, but you can expect stronger currents and rips when the swells get bigger. This beach stretches for miles, giving you plenty of space to find your own spot, especially heading south towards the Pajaro River, which also marks the county line. If you get lucky with the morning offshore winds, you might just score some decent waves.

This beach handles swells pretty well, especially when they're coming from the southwest. The ideal swell sizes range from about 2 ft. (0.6 meters) and you’ll get both left and right beach breaks over sand. It's a solid choice if you have intermediate skills, and you might find that high tide is your best friend here, especially with east winds. Just keep in mind that it can get blown out a bit easier than some other spots.

Besides the surfing, there’s also camping available nearby, making it easy to spend a weekend by the beach. The environment is pretty natural and can be a nice change if you're used to busier areas. Plus, with the submarine canyon nearby, it might be worth keeping an eye out for any interesting sea life as you enjoy your time on the water.