Point Reyes (north)

Point Reyes north is an exposed beach break with shifting sandbars over a sand bottom, producing both lefts and rights that can break for over 100 meters. The break is fickle—the banks move frequently and wave quality hinges on sandbar positioning, making it as much a spot to monitor as to count on. Waves typically range from chest-high to triple overhead, manageable on west to north-northwest swell in the 2–10 foot range, with the break working best on mid to high tide with a rising tide favored. Southeast winds provide the strongest offshore condition. Winter delivers the most consistent rideable surf, with January particularly productive; summer sees shorter, more fickle windows. The paddling is notoriously grueling due to strong alongshore currents and rip hazards.

Access is via the North Beach parking lot (about 50 spots) off Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in Inverness, with free parking, restrooms, and showers available. The 11-mile beach is largely undeveloped within Point Reyes National Seashore. Sneaker waves are a serious hazard and have historically pulled people into the ocean near the waterline—plan to leave well before high tide as it can trap you against rocky sections of the bluff.