Moonstone

Moonstone's primary draw is a right-hand reef break that allows extended rides regardless of swell direction, working best on strong west to southwest swell and east winds, particularly during low tide when the wave stretches past the shoreline. Winter months from December through February see the most consistent and reliable conditions with nearly all ground swell, producing waves in the 4 to 8 foot range regularly. The break is reliably consistent year-round but decidedly intermediate-plus due to the rocky composition of the seafloor and shore, which requires paddlers to navigate carefully and time entries at low tide to avoid excessive shore break.

The rocks that define the break extend throughout the break area and create the reef structure but also present the greatest hazard. Additional safety concerns include cold water, strong rip currents generated by Santa Rosa Creek, sea urchins in the shallows, and documented shark presence in the region, with no lifeguards stationed at the beach.

Access is from Moonstone Beach Drive in Cambria off Highway 1 via Windsor Boulevard, with free parking available at the Santa Rosa Creek day-use area, Leffingwell Landing, or pullouts along the drive itself. The boardwalk provides scenic walking, though surfable water access is strictly at low tide from the rocky foreshore.