Westhaven surf guide

Westhaven is a surf spot located along the northern California coast, perfect for those looking to catch some waves. The area faces southwest, which means the surf tends to be a bit mediocre, relying heavily on north winds and bigger swells to create rideable conditions. It's a great spot for cold, sunny days with northwest winds and large swell, but you should be prepared for some weak surf and plenty of crowds. Access is easy; just exit 101 at Westhaven Drive or Trinidad and follow Scenic Drive along the coast.

When it comes to surfing at Westhaven, the wave conditions can range quite a bit. The swell here typically comes from the west, northwest, and even a bit from the north, handling sizes from about 3 feet (0.9 meters) to 8 feet (2.4 meters). The majority of the breaks are over sand and rock, producing both beach breaks that can shape up into rights and lefts. Ideal conditions usually hit during medium to low tides, and the best winds come from the northeast to east-southeast. The spot can see a mix of wave types, so it’s doable for beginners and intermediates alike, with fun rides possible on shortboards, funboards, longboards, and even fish or guns depending on the day.

Expect crowds at Westhaven, especially when conditions align just right, as local surfers from Humboldt flock to the area. However, if you’re willing to venture a bit south of Moonstone, you might just find your own little spot. The overall vibe here is pretty chill, though not particularly “local,” so everyone is generally just there to enjoy the surf. The best seasons to hit this spot are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the surf tends to be a bit more consistent.