Privates

Privates is a tucked, protected series of right-breaking peaks over a mixed rock and sand bottom between Pleasure Point and Capitola. The spot only activates in significant northwest swell wrapping into Santa Cruz's eastern bay, requiring larger swell to truly shine, but when conditions align it produces both sharp, snappy sections and longer, cruisier rides depending on the particular peak and swell angle. Best surfed at low to medium tide, the shifting sandbars create variable peaks that reward knowledge of the specific conditions.

Locals primarily surf this spot, which fits within Santa Cruz's storied tradition of intense territorial behavior at premium breaks, though the broader coastal culture has moderated somewhat from its most aggressive decades. The limited crowd and protected nature of the break maintain its insular character.

Access is via a wooden stairway descending from Opal Cliffs Park on the bluffs above (4524 Opal Cliff Drive), positioned between Pleasure Point and Capitola with minimal parking. The beach was historically gated and required annual key fees through the Opal Cliffs Recreation District until 2018, when a California Coastal Commission mandate opened it to free daytime public access; the gate now locks only after dark.