Bolinas Surf Guide

Surf spot guide

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

S, SW. (Big NW, too.)

Wind

N or NE. (Can handle a NW.)

Surf Height

Waist-high to overhead.

Tide

Medium-High.

Bolinas Surf Guide

Over the past few years, it has become a popular, dependable surf zone. The Sea Drift Road (east) side of the lagoon mouth sees some fun rights when the bars are correctly formed, while the Wharf/Brighton Road (west) side of the lagoon mouth produces surfable lefts. The waves in Bolinas generally have to be small to be rideable, and usually best on mid-high tide.

Local Vibe

WelcomingIntimidating

Can be protective when good. Big hangout for big sharks, too.

Crowd Factor

MellowHeavy

Thick on key days, especially over the last few years, but there's always a chance you'll score it with a few others.

Spot Rating

PoorPerfect

Kinda fun.

Shoulder Burn

LightExhausting

Not too bad.

Water Quality

CleanDirty

Minimal and nothing really to worry about.

Hazards

Hungry sharks.

Access

Through the town of Bolinas for the jetty: take Olema-Bolinas Road from Highway 1 and turn right on Brighton Ave.

Bottom

Sand.

Best Season

Year-round.

Do you have local knowledge about Bolinas?

If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]