Emma Wood Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Emma Wood Surf Guide
Emma Wood State Beach marks the definitive bend in the coast between Ventura proper and the points and reefs beyond. Although Emma Wood is home to a handful of forgettable waves over a span of two miles, its franchise player is Ventura Overhead, a famous big-wave break that used to be the Sunset Beach training grounds for California's bravest big-wave pioneers. Overhead only breaks a few times a year, but it remains the area's premier big-wave spot -- wedgy, open-face rights that funnel for hundreds of yards and steep, lined-up lefts that can barrel with enough W in the swell.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate to advanced.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Moderate.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Light to moderate.
Spot Rating
Fun
Fun, wedging peaks on the inside.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Not too bad.
Water Quality
Clean
Manageable but can be rough after a rain.
Hazards
Long paddle to Overheads.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Longboard, Fish, Bodyboard
Access
Easy, park at Emma Wood.
Bottom
Sand.
Best Season
Year-round.
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