Surf Beach is a relatively isolated surf spot located at the end of Highway 246. It's not typically crowded, which can be a plus for surfers looking for some space. The beach has some restrictions you'll need to be aware of, especially during the nesting season for the endangered snowy plover dune birds. The area is off-limits from March 1 to September 30, so be sure to stick to the beach and not wander north or south of the train station to avoid fines. Access has been limited by the U.S. Air Force since 2002, which adds to the sense of a quiet sanctuary for a select few surfers.
The surf here can be pretty gnarly—there's usually some swell coming in, and it never really goes completely flat. The optimal swell direction is from the Northwest, but it also handles swells coming from the South and North. You'll want to aim for swells around 2 feet (0.6 meters) for the best ride. The beachbreak offers both left and right waves and tends to be hollow. The waves can be difficult to paddle out due to bad currents, especially at outgoing tides, so it's smart to plan around incoming and high tides for the best experience. If the wind is coming from the Southeast, that's preferable for some solid conditions.
Surf Beach can be a bit sharky, so keep that in mind while you're out there. The currents can also be pretty intense, especially when the tide goes out, so you'll want to be cautious. Given its isolation and challenging conditions, this spot tends to attract a unique group of surfers, often those looking for a more serious session away from the crowds.