A surfer friend (nickname Wild Bill) shared some local surfer knowledge with me, breaking it down into where “experienced” surfers go and where “others” go. He’s experienced, but finds himself looking for a spot that will be the “most fun” on any given day.
The Cove at Point Arena Pier (35 miles south of Mendocino) and Virgin Beach, just on the north end of Fort Bragg, produce waves on some days my pal describes as “well overhead.” When it’s happening, this is where experienced surfers want to be.
“Other” places to go include Caspar Beach (on Point Cabrillo Drive off Highway 1 between Mendocino and Fort Bragg), Hare Creek Beach (access is just south of the Hare Creek Bridge before you enter Fort Bragg City Limits), Blues Beach south of Westport, Wages Beach just north of Westport, Big River Beach below Mendocino Village, and Schooner Gulch at mile marker 11.41 on Highway 1 between Gualala and Point Arena. Beginners should check out Caspar Beach and Big River Beach in summer when the waves are smaller.
From Point Arena to Westport is about 65 miles, so the surf spots listed here nearly three-fourths of the Mendocino (County) coastline and are easily accessible from Highway 1.
Regardless of where you go, you’ll need at least a 4/3 mm (thickness) wetsuit. The water is in the low 50’s year-round, so you may also want a hood and booties. “Purists,” my pal notes, “don’t wear booties or gloves. I do just because my feet get numb pretty quickly in the cold seawater.”
If you’re a beginner, learn surf etiquette about going into the water by talking with local surfers. “For the most part, we’re a pretty friendly bunch,” Wild Bill says.
You can buy/rent surfboards and wetsuits at Sub-Surface Progression, 18600 Hwy 1 Fort Bragg, Ca 95437; (707) 964-3793, or Gone Surfing, 330 North Franklin Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 (in the downtown) Phone: 707-961-0889. The store at Caspar Beach also rents soft boards. Call ahead to find out if these businesses offer what you need.
Finally, be self aware: know your limitations. If you don’t have a lot of experience, stick to the safer breaks and stay out of the water on big storm wave days. As we locals tell visitors walking along the cliffs of the Mendocino Coast: be swept away by the beauty, not by the waves. Same holds true for those in the water.
Local surfing organization: Mendocino County Surfriders, a non-profit dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the worlds oceans, waves, and beaches, for all people, through conservation, activism, research & education. Address: PO Box 138, Caspar, CA 95420 Phone: (707) 962-0221.
