Surfing the Bay Area waters is commitment
that requires skill, faith and sometimes luck.
The water is cold, the winds are brisk and
the wave breaks can be treacherous. But for
those who brave the elements, the payoff is
an incredible workout and an exhilarating
experience in communing with nature. A wide
range of surfing conditions, from the deathdefying
66 South Bay Accent
just inside San Francisco Bay, is a great spot
for iconic surf photos in the shadow of the
Golden Gate Bridge. But we advise you not to
trade your camera for a wetsuit unless you are
an experienced surfer who’s done some basic
research. Paddling out by the rocks must be
expertly timed based on the day’s tidal patterns
and weather conditions.
The Peninsula’s ultimate surf spot, a worldclass
big-wave mecca in Half Moon Bay, Mavericks,
is an international superstar. A channel
on the ocean floor multiplies incoming
swells to terrifying proportions, especially in
the winter months. These tumultuous crests
are best suited for experienced big-wave
surfers. For mere mortals, it’s best to grab a
pair of binoculars on competition days and
view the action from nearby Pillar Point.
In Santa Cruz, two laid-back locations
invite wave-riders of all skill levels. With a
powerful current and rocky bottom, the spot
is for intermediate and advanced surfers.
Further inside the protected cove, in sight
of Steamer Lane, Cowell’s is one of the best
beginner surf spots in all of California. The
clean, fun lines of the swells are perfect for
long boarders, often drawing large crowds
when the surf’s up. On the east side of Santa
Cruz, Pleasure Point, also crowded on good
days, is a classic point break that offers a
long, clean ride. It picks up swells when other
breaks are flat. Appropriate for all experience
levels.
FROM TOP: MICHAEL FILIPPOFF; PHIL DIGIROLAMO; OPPOSITE: C. MALLORY YU, @MARLEAUTHEMINIAUSSIE
John Muir was legendary for his long treks and if
you’re up to the challenge, treat yourself to a walk in
his shoes for a day and enjoy the Muir Beach loop.
Head just north of the Golden Gate Bridge and take
a scenic drive up a steep ascent into the winding hills
of the Marin Headlands and past a Buddhist retreat
before descending down to the hidden gem beach.
From the parking lot, take the Green Gulch Trail and
follow the split to the beach where you’ll find the
head of the Coastal Trail. The climb is a bit arduous
at first, but the increase in elevation rewards you
with fantastic views up and down the Pacific Coast.
Continue along Coyote Ridge Trail and Middle
Green Gulch Trail, and you’ll soon find your way back
to your starting point, along with a well-deserved
treat for all your hard work: The Pelican Inn. If you’ve
been blessed with a sunny day, enjoy an alfresco
lunch on the Inn’s front lawn. The menu is simple
and just what you’d expect from an English-inspired
tavern, including gastropub classics like bangers
and mash served alongside locally brewed beer. And
if a blanket of fog has rolled in, don’t fret, because
there’s nothing better to cut through the bonechilling
mist than a hot toddy in front of the cozy
inn’s fireplace.
Mavericks breakers to the gentle
rollers of Cowell’s Cove, attracts novices and
seasoned pros alike.
In Marin, Bolinas beckons the surf newbies.
Adjacent to Stinson Beach, Bolinas offers a
sandbar break with a long series of peaks. The
waves are soft and well suited to long boarders
and beginners. Moving south, Fort Point,
RIDETHE WAVES
Pleasure Point,
Santa Cruz
HIKETHE TRAILS
A backpacker
takes in the view
on the Coastal
Trail, Marin
Headlands