Waddell Creek is a popular surf spot located along the California coast. It features several hundred yards of beachbreaks and reefs leading up to a rivermouth, with more beachbreaks and reefs found at the north end. This spot tends to be a favorite for Santa Cruz surfers, providing a mix of wave types that cater to various skill levels.

The surf here is generally decent, with a preference for incoming to high tides. It handles swells from the west, northwest, and south, ranging from about 3 feet (0.9 meters) to 10 feet (3 meters). Waddell Creek works well with wind from the northeast, and on good days, the beachbreaks can handle anything up to double-overhead. Most surfers will find a fun session with waist-high to head-high waves being common, especially in the summer and autumn. The waves break over a mix of rock ledges and sand, creating both left and right-handers. The spot can get crowded, especially during good surf, but the vibe is usually pretty mellow, even with the occasional high crowd factor.

There's plenty of parking available near the spot, making access easy. Keep in mind that Waddell Creek is also a hotspot for sailboarders and kitesurfers when the wind picks up. It’s advisable to watch out for those along with the chance of sharks in the area. If you’re looking for an industrial-strength surf experience in a beautiful natural setting, Waddell Creek is worth checking out.