Terra Mar surf guide

Terra Mar is a surf spot located just south of Cannon Road along Highway 101. It's a bit of a hidden gem and can be somewhat fickle, often getting overlooked by surfers looking for consistent waves. The access point is easy to find, with parking available on the dirt lot on the ocean side of the highway. From there, you can walk down a path to the beach. Overall, it’s a generally quiet place to catch some waves, but things can get a little crowded when the surf is good.

The waves here can range from knee-high (about 0.6 meters) to a few feet overhead (around 2.4 meters). Terra Mar works best with swells coming from the South (S) and Northwest (NW), making it a versatile spot when those swells roll in. The bottom is mostly sandy with some boulders and rocks mixed in, which can create some fun beach breaks. You can find both lefts and rights here, but the quality can be variable. Timing the tide is crucial—mid-tide is preferred to avoid closures that often occur during low tides. When the conditions align, paddling out is manageable, though you’ll need to duck-dive through some whitewater as the size increases. Shortboards are a popular choice here, especially for those with some experience.

While it's not as crowded as some other marquee spots, expect to share the water with local surfers who know the area well, especially when conditions get good. The vibes are usually mellow, and it's a solid spot for surfers of various skill levels, though beginners should be careful of the waves when it's bigger. Terra Mar can handle swells from 2 feet to 8 feet (about 0.6 to 2.4 meters) and offers a fun surf experience throughout the year, particularly in the autumn, winter, and spring seasons.