Tunitas Creek

Tunitas Creek is a beach break offering both left and right-hander waves over sand and scattered rocks, typically breaking as A-frames in the middle of the beach. Swells from 1 to 3 meters work best, particularly those coming from the west and southwest, with intermediate to advanced surfers finding the break workable across all tides, though conditions are often inconsistent. Hazards include rip currents that develop unpredictably, sudden sneaker waves capable of pulling waders out to sea, scattered rocks in the break zone, and occasional shark activity in the water.

The beach remained largely inaccessible to the public for nearly two decades following private ownership, including from 1998 to 2017 when musician Chris Isaak held the property. This period of limited access prevented the spot from developing a significant surf history or reputation. The landscape changed in August 2026 when the Peninsula Open Space Trust transferred ownership to San Mateo County, which opened Don Horsley County Park on the site, providing established public access where surfers had previously relied on informal trails.

Don Horsley County Park now provides managed beach access via an 80-vehicle parking lot situated on the ocean-facing bluffs where Tunitas Creek meets the Pacific between Half Moon Bay and Pescadero. Established trails lead from the parking area directly to nearly a mile of sandy beach, with scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and restroom facilities available. No lifeguard is stationed at the beach, and visitors should be prepared to manage the hazards noted above independently.