Surf Forecast The Ranch – Government Point
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The Ranch – Government Point surfspot characteristics
More about The Ranch – Government Point surfspot
Publicly inaccessible 14-mile stretch of private coastline (from Point Conception to Gaviota) containing several inconsistent yet quality points and reefs. The west to east list reads like the roll call of a daydreamer’s mindtrip: Government Point, Cojo, Perkos, Lefts & Rights, Rights & Lefts, St. Augustine, Razorblades – it’s pretty much bumper-to-bumper spots, but they work on different swells and tides. Strong N swells generally sweep past most of Bixby and nail the Hollister. A good S swell might hit Bixby and be blocked for most of Hollister by the Channel Islands.
Restricted -boat in or know owner - private.
Full of surprises. Off-limits unless you own a durable boat (or know someone who owns Hollister property) and can motor up from the Gaviota Pier, which is often closed. Outrageous winds, thick forests of kelp, covetous locals, speeding passenger trains, and armed guards have orchestrated some fabulous disasters over the years since the Santa Barbara Surf Club had sole (but limited) legal access. Not for the casual surf tourist.