Overview
Ventura Overhead is the standout at Emma Wood State Beach, where the coast bends between Ventura and the points and reefs beyond. It is a famous big-wave break that once served as training grounds for California's big-wave pioneers, and it still ranks as the area's premier big-wave spot. It only breaks a few times a year, but when it does it throws wedgy, open-face rights that funnel for hundreds of yards, along with steep, lined-up lefts that can barrel when there is enough west in the swell. Expect a deepwater wave breaking over sand and rock.
When It Works
Overhead draws swell from west-southwest to west-northwest (WSW-WNW) and comes alive in winter. It works from 1.8 m / 6 ft to 4.6 m / 15 ft, so it takes real size to switch on. Rare as it is, it is a quality wave once everything lines up.
Wind and Tide
The offshore direction here is northeast (NE), with a workable wind window running from north-northeast to east (NNE-E). It breaks on low and mid tide, and a rising tide is generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is an expert-level wave, so come prepared for size. Bring a shortboard, gun, or tow board depending on the day. The lineup stays fairly quiet with a somewhat reserved atmosphere.
Access
Getting in is easy: park at Emma Wood State Beach.
